Peugeot Pulls out of LMP1!

[porsche917]

I can’t believe it but Peugeot has pulled the plug on its LMP1 program.  This happens just as the ACO has finally organized a world championship series that manufactures can promote globally.  It’s also unfortunate to see this as new manufactures are coming into the sport at the LMP1 level.  I can’t imagine Peugeot’s decision was influenced by the times from Toyota’s test at Paul Richard last week.  And what about their hybrid model they invested so much development time in?  Did they see what Porsche’s hybrid technology was capable of and decided they could not keep up when the Porsche factory returns in 2014? 

I also wonder what this decision means to the board of Volkswagen, the parent company of Audi and Porsche.  I can’t imagine they are happy with not having any other real competition.  It’s nice to win LeMans but it is only meaningful if you are really racing someone for it.  I don’t think the board of Volkswagen wants to see two of their brands race each other for the win at LeMans and the WEC in 2014.  Toyota better bring their “A” game and Nissan better get off the fence and get in the game.  I think that is the only way we will see Audi continue with their LMP1 program.  

https://www.autoweek.com/article/20120118/ALMS/120119828

Marty

[Bellator]

That’s sad news.  And on the heels of the announcment that ALMS would be racing at one of my favorite tracks this year, Virginia International Speedway.

I hope this doesn’t impact Porsche’s decision to return to the series.

 

 

 

[Bellator]

Oh… and there’s always Oreca..

[turboman93]

Oreca is handling the Toyota return to endurance racing.

[Author]

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