Hypercar class regulations stipulate that LMDh prototypes must be based on a chassis from one of four approved constructors (Multimatic, ORECA, Dallara and Ligier). Porsche, and its Volkswagen Group sister company Audi, have decided on Multimatic. This mutual selection will foster synergy in the joint development of these new cars.
Porsche Motorsport Vice President Fritz Enzinger: "Multimatic is the most obvious and logical solution for us. We have known this highly respected company and its team of experienced professionals for many years and are absolutely convinced of the quality of their work. We don’t have to set up a completely new business relationship with them, but can hit the ground running. That’s vital and is exactly what is needed when developing a new racing car. It is imperative that we eliminate friction losses to ensure that we are able to do a perfect job and deliver what is needed fast. There’s another factor of inestimable benefit: one part of Multimatic, like our team partner Penske, is based in Mooresville in North Carolina. Short distances and direct lines of communication will be of tremendous help in the development of the future LMDh prototype and in competition."
Multimatic Executive Vice President Larry Holt: "This partnership with Porsche Motorsport is the culmination of 30 years of building our expertise in the area of competition vehicle engineering and development. It is a privilege to be chosen by Porsche for their next chapter in global hybrid prototype competition. The LMDh concept and rules convergence between the FIA WEC and IMSA championships is unprecedented, and Multimatic’s commitment to the new model is all-in. The collaboration has already proven to be seamless and the enthusiasm of the team is palpable in every meeting. I am equally delighted with the recent Porsche Penske Motorsport announcement as we have enjoyed a long relationship with Roger Penske and his organization, as both collaborator and competitor. I can think of no better team than our North Carolina neighbor to campaign the new cars."
Beginning in 2023, the LMDh prototypes will compete in Hypercar, the new head class in endurance racing. As mentioned above, the cars will be based on a chassis that each marque is permitted to pair with its own bodywork. Constructors are granted considerable leeway in terms of transmission. There are no specifications concerning the design or cylinder of the combustion engine. Coupled with a standardized hybrid system, the motor power is set at 500 kW (approximately 680 hp), with a standardized car weight of 1,030 kg.