The IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Championship has confirmed that it plans to introduce hybrid powertrains to the top-tier Daytona Prototype International (DPi) class from 2022 onward.
IMSA and a board known as the DPi Steering Committee confirmed to Sportscar365 this weekend that they are currently looking at introducing a hybrid system of some sort when the reformed DPi regulations, known as DPi 2.0, are decided on in a couple years’ time. The DPi 2.0 would retain the LMP2 chassis specs the current DPi cars use.
Sportscar365 also reports that the DPi Steering Committee is giving a serious look at introducing a 48V mild hybrid system in DPi, although it’s also sees higher voltage systems as a possibility. All-wheel drive cars with sophisticated electric front axles are already off the table, however, as systems such as these would make DPi cars far too complex and expensive.
IMSA is instead targeting a standardized hybrid system for the DPi class that would be made by a single supplier. The series is targeting a rental cost of $100,000 per season for the standardized hybrid setup.
While spec parts are against the ethos of the DPi class, manufacturers would still need to figure out the best way to integrate their hybrid system into their chassis. This would help retain the engineering element of competition with regard to the hybrid system.
48V starter-generator systems are expected to become more commonplace in the near future. Systems like this use a 48 volt electric motor in place of a 12 volt alternator, which is connected to the engine via a belt. The system enables very quick start-stop operation, which allows for seamless engine off coasting. It can also recuperate electric energy when coasting and store it in a small battery. Tech like this may allow a DPi to achieve fuel efficiency gains when entering and exiting the pits, for example, or when the driver is using a lift and coast technique to execute their desired fuel strategy.
A 48V mild hybrid system could tempt General Motors to remain in DPi from 2022 onward. Much like Ford, the automaker is ramping up its electrification efforts, so it could potentially want to race a hybrid car to help market the technology. Ford has also given thought to the DPi 20 regulations and has been adamant that hybrid tech be apart of the equation. GM has not yet given official word on the future of the Cadillac DPi-V.R program or its involvement in prototype racing.
Source: Sportscar365
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Comments
Leave them alone. It will only drive up cost and not make for any better racing.
I was at the IMSA race this weekend and it was a great event with out the need of novelties.
The advanced systems in F1 have not made for better racing and has left th3 teams in two groups those who have and those who can’t afford.
Would have to agree, Scott. Learn from the FIA’s expensive mistakes. Mid-Ohio looked like a great event this year, been meaning to make it down for the IMSA or IndyCar race one of these years.
Racing is an event not a place to push agendas unless someone foots the bill for it in sponsorship that all participants took part in.
IMSA is a fragile series that often promotes the best racing at high cost even not using advanced technology.
Qualifying this year was great. Cadillac suffered due to not running Friday.
This year was a mud fest but still enjoyable. I have lost of Mid Ohio washed off in the garage.
You want a good race? Come to the NASCAR Trans Am series race week end.
I have more fun at that event than any other.
The trans am people treat fans like family. I know a few people from some of the teams now and it is like a yearly visit.
I have sat and watch races with Adam Andretti. Sat and talked with Aldo.
Been invited into other teams to visit.
I still half of Greg Pickett’s Jaguars hood. The part that did not burn hanging on the wall in the garage.
As for the Racing both Trans Am and NASCAR both put on a great show. Note I stopped watching NASCAR years ago but still I visit Them at Mid Ohio.
I really miss the old IMSA days from the 80’s. I talked to Dan Binks Saturday and we spoke the old GTO races with Roush and even the year a F40 Ferrari showed up and ran well.
48v’s seams like a waist any way, there are lawn mowers running more then that!
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