Lamborghini is developing a twin-turbo V8 for its LMDh prototype

Lamborghini has unveiled the first technical specifications of its future LMDh prototype, which will enter competition in 2024 in both the FIA ​​WEC and IMSA. First information which is also accompanied by a visual allowing to discern a little more the pace that the Italian machine will have, based on a Ligier chassis but on which the aesthetic paw of the mark will be clearly visible, in accordance with the regulations. .

We still did not know what engine would be added to this chassis. Lamborghini, a member of the Volkswagen group, announces that it has chosen a 90-degree twin-turbo V8 to be developed by the Italian firm’s Squadra Corse competition department. The powertrain, coupled with the standard hybrid system imposed in the LMDh category, will be able to develop up to 500 kW (i.e. 681 hp), as required here too by the rules authorizing convergence between machines entered in ACO races such as of IMSA.

Lamborghini has also confirmed the dimensions of its prototype, which will reach the maximum allowed by the regulatory texts: 2000 mm wide, 5100 mm long and a wheelbase of 3148 mm. The engine will show 180 kg on the scale, for a total of 1030 kg once integrated into the chassis.

The first photos of the Lamborghini LMDh in real life are expected for the first quarter of 2023, and its baptismal name remains unknown at this stage. The manufacturer appointed two test pilots a few weeks ago to carry out the development of this machine, both from its fold, namely Mirko Bortolotti and Andrea Caldarelli. On the other hand, once its effective entry into competition at the beginning of 2024, Lamborghini will not hire a factory team but will entrust its prototype to customer structures, while accompanying them with strong logistical support, like what the manufacturer is already doing in GT.

Manufacturers’ programs

LMDh	Frame	Engine	Hybrid	4×4	Arrival	Field.
Porsche 963	Multimatic	Porsche Twin-turbo V8	Yes	Nope	2023 (2022?)	WEC IMSA
Cadillac	Dallara	Cadillac V8	Yes	Nope	2023	IMSA WEC
BMW M Hybrid V8	Dallara	BMW Turbocharged V8	Yes	Nope	2023	IMSA
Acura AXR-06	Oreca	HPD V6 twin-turbo	Yes	Nope	2023	IMSA
Lamborghini	ligier	Lamborghini Twin-turbo V8	Yes	Nope	2024	WEC IMSA
Alpine	Oreca	Unknown	Yes	Nope	2024	WEC
Audi	Multimatic	Unknown	Yes	Nope	Suspended	Unknown