This year’s Le Mans 24 Hours race is a good opportunity for carmakers to flex their muscles and show-off their top technologies where they matter most: on the racetrack.
After earlier this week we learned about Audi’s revised R18 e-tron quattro prototype, we’re are now turning our heads towards Toyota, a carmaker that managed to go from underdog to one of the favorites players in the competition over the past few years.
Their weapon of choice for this year’s Le Mans showdown is an improved version of last year’s TS040 hybrid racer. Changing regulations forced Toyota into making a few changes to their LMP1 prototype and as company officials claim, engineers redesigned 80 percent of the parts on board the TS040. The prototype also received updated aerodynamics, a revised front end crash structure plus a new suspension that optimizes tire usage.
Unlike Audi, which opted for 4 megajoules per lap race at Le Mans, Toyota decided to keep things unchanged from last year and stay in the 6 megajoules category. As a result, the 3.7-liter V8 powering the TS040 is backed up by an electric boost system for a grand total of over 1,000 HP.
In addition, the prototype will wear two different body kits, each designed for special situations: one is suited for fast tracks where reduced drag is essential while the other favors increased downforce that can make a difference on tight circuits.
Toyota is also saying that the TS040 passed a series of winter testing sessions in Europe but competition is going to be rife at this year’s Le Mans 24 Hour race as Audi are looking to defend their title and Porsche will most likely seek revenge after last year’s nearly missed trophy.
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