24h Le Mans
Last month during the 85th edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, there was much talk about what the future holds. Especially 2020, subsequent to the two-fold announcement of technical regulations going into effect that year, as well as a new challenge for human beings.
In 2020, future LMP1 prototypes compliant with the new regulations will be primarily electric, with plug-in hybrid technology for rapid recharging of the car which will also have to cover a given distance on the track in 100% electric mode.
The year 2020 will also include the first realization of a new and great human adventure. During a press conference held on the morning of Saturday, June 17th, Frédéric Sausset announced - one year after successfully taking on the 24 Hours of Le Mans at the wheel of a specially equipped LMP2 prototype - the creation of a pathway specifically dedicated to disabled drivers. Its goal: the 2020 24 Hours of Le Mans.
In three years, we should see at the wheel British driver Billy Monger who was forced to have both legs amputated this past April following an accident during a Formula 4 race at the Donington Park circuit. He was Frédéric Sausset's guest on June 17th during the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and was also invited to join three-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton at the Formula 1 British Grand Prix on July 16th.
The first objective of Frédéric Sausset's project is to become a competitor in endurance racing, with participation in the European Le Mans Series scheduled for 2019, then the 2020 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Though we do not yet know if a prototype or GT will be entered, one thing is clear. The first chapters of a new era of the 24 Hours of Le Mans are already being written, with new technical and human adventures coming in 2020. Mark your calendars!
PHOTO: After the 2016 Morgan LMP2 prototype, pictured here, which car will represent Frédéric Sausset's new endeavor heading into 2020?
