Following the announcement by Toyota of of their comeback to Le mans, we have contacted Toyota GmbH and Pascal Vasselon, TMG’s Director, has kindly answered some questions. This interview has been made before ORECA’s own announcement.
- When did the start of the hybrid project was given the green light ?
The project was confirmed by TMC (Toyota Motor Corporation) at the beginning of October this year. TMG had already been working on a chassis in preparation for a decision earlier in the year, but the earthquake in March created some understandable delays. So the green light only came this month.
- Had the creation of the World Endurance Championship an impact upon the decision ?
We welcome the creation of the FIA World Endurance Championship, which we believe will be a positive force for the promotion of endurance racing.
- Why the hybrid technology has been chosen ? Has the marketing strategy of the Toyota brand a big importance for this choice?
The technical challenge of introducing new technology to one of the world’s most famous races was too good an opportunity to miss.
- Has Toyota GmbH already contacts with some drivers ? What kind of profile for them? Endurance veterans, some young singleseater drivers ?
We are in advanced discussions with some experienced and talented drivers, and we are close to confirming our line-up. Until then, it is not fair to mention names.
- Is it a long-term project ? With a deadline?
At this stage we can only confirm our participation in 2012.
- In the future, could privateer teams run an Hybrid Toyota LMP1 ?
That remains to be seen – it would be a decision made by TMC, rather than by TMG.
- What will be the code name of the Toyota LMP1?
This has not yet been decided.
- Have the tests in Japan with a Toyota-powered Dome been fruitful for the Toyota LMP1 project ?
Our colleagues at TMC have used this car to refine and develop the hybrid powertrain. It has been a very thorough programme and we are looking forward to seeing the results in our own LMP1 car.
-Will the data of the Hybrid Lexus raced at Tokachi be an help for the LMP1 programme ?
The Supra Hybrid HV-R was a part of the story of hybrid motorsport development within Toyota, and this story now includes our World Endurance Championship entry next year. Our colleagues within TMC learned a tremendous amount about hybrid technology during that project, and advanced the technology significantly so it was an important step.
When is the public launch of the LMP1 scheduled?
This has not yet been decided.
- Do you think to be able to save some time in the pits thanks to a better fuel efficiency ?
Obviously two key performance factors in endurance racing are outright speed and fuel efficiency. We believe our hybrid system and LMP1 chassis will be competitive in both areas. Until we run the car on track, we cannot say for sure how efficient it will be but naturally we hope to be extremely competitive in this area.
Would a wet race be an asset for an Hybrid LMP1 ?
A hybrid LMP1 could have gained an advantage in the wet if running a front e-motor, but the latest regulations prevent energy release at the front below 120km/h. Hybrid LMP1s will then not have any significant advantage in the wet even with a front motor allowing 4WD traction at corner exit.
We do thank Pascal Vasselon for his kindness.
Laurent Mercier and Claude Foubert