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.