For 2021, two-time WEC LMP2 champions (2016 and 2018-2019 superseason), Alpine Elf Matmut Endurance Team, take a step forward in entering the Hypercar class.
Introduced in 2021, Hypercar forms the new premier class of the FIA World Endurance Championship. Open to unique prototypes and cars based on road models, it imposes fewer regulations than LMP2, but the chassis and engines remain subject to ACO and FIA approval.
Alpine A480 WEC Hypercar. Photo: Alpine Racing
Where the WEC’s LMP2 class is reserved for independent entities with one of the mandated chassis’ and a single-engine, the Hypercar class welcomes factory teams freed from such restrictions resulting in higher performance thanks to more power and more refined and complex aerodynamics. This season marks Alpine’s eighth endurance race season, the first in the FIA World Endurance Championship’s premier category.
Alpine A480 WEC Hypercar. Photo: Alpine Racing
Approved by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile as the Alpine A480, the prototype that the Alpine Elf Matmut Endurance Team will contest was initially designed and built to meet the technical regulations for the non-hybrid LMP1 category and is based on the Rebellion R13 designed by Oreca.
It is powered by the Gibson Technology GL458, a naturally aspirated aluminium DOHC 4.5 litre port injection 90° V8. It will run with Michelin tyres, in accordance with the regulations of the Hypercar class.
Alpine A480 WEC Hyper...