WEC & IMSA LMDh Futures Remain Undecided Amid Cost-Cutting Discussions
Charlotte, NC - september 10, 2024 – The future of the LMDh regulations in both the World Endurance Championship (WEC) and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship is currently unresolved as series organizers grapple with escalating costs and potential manufacturer concerns. While discussions are ongoing, no definitive decisions have been made regarding potential alterations to the hybrid powertrain regulations or convergence plans between the two championships.
The uncertainty stems from rising growth and operational expenses associated with the LMDh formula, prompting manufacturers to reassess their long-term commitments. A collaborative effort between the WEC, IMSA, and the FIA aims to address these concerns and ensure the sustainability of the top-tier prototype category. The outcome will significantly impact manufacturer participation, competition levels, and the overall direction of endurance racing in the coming years.
IMSA President John Doonan confirmed ongoing conversations with manufacturers regarding cost control, stating, “We’re listening to the manufacturers, understanding their challenges, and working collaboratively to find solutions that ensure a healthy and competitive future for the LMDh class.” He emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between technological innovation and financial viability.The core of the debate revolves around the complexity and expense of the hybrid systems. Some manufacturers have expressed a desire to simplify the regulations, possibly reducing costs but also potentially diminishing the technological showcase originally envisioned for LMDh. A key consideration is the potential for a shift away from the current mandatory hybrid systems, though no firm proposals have been tabled.
WEC CEO Frédéric Lequien acknowledged the need for a unified approach, stating, “It’s crucial that WEC and IMSA align on the future of LMDh to avoid fragmentation and maintain a strong global platform for endurance racing.” He indicated that any changes would need to be carefully evaluated to ensure they do not compromise the sporting and technical integrity of the championships.
The current LMDh regulations were designed to encourage manufacturer participation by offering a cost-effective choice to the fully bespoke hypercars of the previous LMP1 era. However, the actual costs have proven higher than initially anticipated, leading to the current period of review. A decision is anticipated before the end of 2024 to provide clarity for manufacturers planning their future programs.