Bentley Apparently Developing LMP2 Racer For U.S. Racing

Bentley is apparently working on a project to return the marque to prototype endurance racing.

Autocar reports that the car will complete in the LMP2 series and be Bentley’s first foray into endurance racing since its famed victory at the 2003 24 Hours of Le Mans. Given that both Audi and Porsche already contest the pack-leading LMP1 class, the Volkswagen Group doesn’t want to have three brands competing hence the decision to target LMP2.

It is reported that the new Bentley racer will be built to comply with updated regulations from 2017 meaning it’ll utilise one of four chassis constructed by Dallara and Oreca. In terms of powertrains, Bentley is said to be favouring using one of its existing engines, most likely its twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 powertrain capable of delivering in excess of 600 hp.

It is understood that Bentley chief Wolfgang Durheimer is pushing for the car to race solely in the United States rather than FIA-sanctioned events in Europe like Le Mans. Instead, the car will contest the likes of the Sebring 12 Hours and Daytona 24 Hours and a number of other races in the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.

While the vehicle will be factory backed and supported, Durheimer confirmed that it’ll also be offered to customer teams.

At this stage, a racing debut during 2018 seems likely.