Cadillac reveals Le Mans Hypercar

It marks a return to Le Mans after a 20-year absence for the American marque, as it joins Toyota, Alpine and Glickenhaus in the Hypercar class alongside BMW, Ferrari, Porsche, Peugeot and Acura in what promises to be a resurgence at the top level of sportscar racing.

From these early images, the Project GTP Hypercar looks to be something of a continuation of Cadillac’s current DPi-V.R machine which races in the IMSA series, but it is expected to evolve a great deal before its competitive debut next year.

The name itself refers to the two classes this new hypercar will compete in: GTP in IMSA and Hypercar in the WEC, so we might also see that change before it hits the track for the first time at the Daytona 24 Hours.

It will be powered by an all-new 5.5-litre V8 coupled to the standard LMDh hybrid system, and testing will begin imminently as Cadillac looks to get its new racer up to speed.

Chris Mikalauskas, lead exterior creative designer at Cadillac said: “The Project GTP Hypercar is a unique convergence of form and function and showcases Cadillac’s future performance aesthetic.

“We have plenty more to come, from the upcoming race car to amazing production vehicles.”

Speaking of Cadillac’s return to Le Mans, GM sports car racing program manager, Laura Wontrop Klauser, said: “Competing for the overall win at Le Mans with an iconic American brand like Cadillac is an honor.

“The entire team is excited to continue building Cadillac’s racing legacy by competing against the very best internationally and in the world's toughest race.”