The Road Ahead – Part 2 of 3
The Road Ahead – Part 2 of 3
American Le Mans Series and GRAND-AM merger:
Classes
The ALMS currently has five classes ranging from the P1 and P2 prototypes, to the ultra-competitive GT class and a pair of challenge classes in PC and GTC. GRAND-AM has two classes, Daytona Prototypes and GT, with a new GTX class slated for 2013. Initial indications are that virtually all will be included in the early years of the new series with a gradual narrowing to two or three classes over the next several years.
Officials of the new series have already met in France with the organizers of the 24 Hours of Le Mans and it appears some linkage will be retained to permit teams to participate with the same cars at Le Mans in the future.
The Rules
Balancing the performance of the different Prototype classes and defining the costs and levels of technology are among the most sensitive pieces of the big, new puzzle. The two series have traditionally chosen opposite approaches to racing, as ALMS follows a Le Mans-style higher-tech approach and GRAND-AM operates on a lower-cost, lower-tech NASCAR-style model.
Many expect a combination of the best of both, with perhaps the P2 and GT classes remaining open tech, permitting greater manufacturer relevance, including open tire rules, and other classes being more limited and cost controlled.
Michelin wraps up IMSA west coast swing with excitement
Volt Racing makes step up to WeatherTech Championship
BMW M Hybrid V8 GTP car through the eyes of the designer
Porsche 963 wins Long Beach on just one set of MICHELIN® tires
AGPLB showcase innovations from IMSA and Michelin with track to street connections
Michelin wraps up IMSA west coast swing with excitement
BMW M Hybrid V8 GTP car through the eyes of the designer
Porsche 963 wins Long Beach on just one set of MICHELIN® tires
AGPLB showcase innovations from IMSA and Michelin with track to street connections
Acura’s brand personality on full display in GTP class
