Le Mans: Diesel-powered prototypes on verge of performance reduction

The performance of turbodiesel LMP1 prototypes will be reduced if a new proposal gets the go-ahead. The Automobile Club de l'Ouest–organizer of the 24 Hours of Le Mans–and the FIA have put forward a reduction in power for turbodiesels believed to be in the region of 40 hp. The proposed reduction follows Audi and Peugeot's domination of the class so far this season.

The ACO has not confirmed the change officially, but Audi and Peugeot have both admitted the plan exists. The ACO will acknowledge only that it is committed to ensuring parity between different fuel technologies.

ACO sporting manager Vincent Beaumesnil said, "All we can say is that we do not want to give an advantage to one technology, but we are now working with much more information.

"We had some secret [timing and scoring] loops at Spa [for the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup event in Belgium in May]. We now have Norbert Singer [former Porsche engineer and designer] helping us, and are now working with the FIA, which has a lot of good processes."

Audi Sport boss Wolfgang Ullrich said, "We are aware of the plan and not happy. The proposal I have seen is far too big.

"We are discussing this and trying not to end up with a situation where the diesel is not competitive anymore." AutoWeek