French constructors ORECA and Ligier have been selected as the exclusive next-gen LMP2 chassis suppliers while British firm Gibson Technology will continue as the sole engine provider for the category.
The FIA and the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) officially announced the suppliers for the next generation of LMP2 chassis and powertrain set to debut in 2028 after a competitive tender process initiated earlier this year.
The new LMP2 chassis will replace the current generation of cars that have been in use since 2017. ORECA’s 07 chassis has dominated the category since its introduction, becoming the preferred choice for teams competing in prestigious events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and various global endurance series.
ORECA’s influence extends beyond LMP2 as its unraced successor chassis serves as the foundation for several LMDh prototypes including the Alpine A424 and Acura ARX-06.
Ligier which previously supplied the JS P217 chassis, had seen its presence diminish due to ORECA’s dominance but remains a key player in the sport. Ligier’s chassis also underpins the Lamborghini SC63 competing in the IMSA SportsCar Championship’s Michelin Endurance Cup.
The tender process, launched by the FIA and ACO in March 2025 sought to streamline the supply chain by reducing the number of approved chassis manufacturers from four to two.
This move aims to balance competitive choice with cost control and technological advancement. While other manufacturers such as Lola and Tatuus submitted bids, the selection of ORECA and Ligier reflects their proven track records and commitment to endurance racing.
The next-gen LMP2 chassis will be designed to meet the FIA’s latest safety standards, featuring a central driving position and dimensions slightly larger and heavier than the current models to enhance safety and performance.
On the powertrain front, Gibson Technology has secured the contract to supply engines for the next generation of LMP2 cars.
Gibson has been the exclusive engine supplier since 2017, providing a 4.2-liter normally aspirated V8 engine that has powered all four current LMP2 chassis manufacturers: ORECA, Ligier, Dallara, and Multimatic/Riley.
For the 2028 regulations, Gibson will develop a new turbocharged engine with direct injection marking the return of forced induction to the class for the first time since 2016.
This change aligns with the FIA and ACO’s goals of improving efficiency and performance while maintaining reliability and cost-effectiveness.
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The next-gen LMP2 cars will be eligible to compete in multiple premier endurance racing series, including the European Le Mans Series (ELMS), Asian Le Mans Series, IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, and the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans.
IMSA has confirmed its commitment to adopting the new regulations starting in 2028, ensuring a unified global platform for the LMP2 category. This alignment across major championships will provide teams and manufacturers with a consistent and competitive environment, fostering the continued growth and popularity of LMP2 racing.
The decision to limit chassis suppliers to ORECA and Ligier reflects a strategic balance between technological advancement and cost control.
“We wish to thank the FIA and ACO for their continued trust,” ORECA Group President Hugues de Chaunac said. “This new selection recognizes our dedication and the experience we have acquired across more than ten years in LMP2.
“We put all our expertise into preparing this tender with the goals of supporting the evolution of the category and offering a strong and reliable platform adaptable to future challenges.
“We turn now to the regulatory preparations that await us with the FIA and ACO to finalise the outline of this new generation of LMP2.”
Similarly, Ligier Automotive President Jacques Nicolet described the selection as both an honor and a responsibility, underscoring the company’s investment in the new generation of LMP2 cars.
“We had no choice but to apply,” Nicolet. “It was an obvious decision — a continuation of the story we’ve been writing for over ten years in endurance.
“This new LMP2 generation is a major step forward for the ecosystem we’ve helped build. We believe strongly in this category and in the essential role it plays for teams, drivers, and manufacturers alike.
“It’s an immense source of pride — and a great responsibility. Being chosen as one of two suppliers for this new LMP2 era is an honor and a commitment.
“The entire company is fully invested in delivering a chassis that is high-performing, reliable, durable, and meets the expectations of our teams.”
The new LMP2 regulations will be in effect until the end of 2032, providing a stable framework for teams and manufacturers to plan their long-term involvement in the category.
This stability is crucial for the sustainability of the class, allowing for technological development within controlled parameters and ensuring that costs remain manageable for competitors.
