Cosworth supplies tech to 24 Hours of Le Mans

LONDON: For the first time since 2015, when it powered the Nissan GT-R LM Nismo, Cosworth is returning to the 24 Hours of Le Mans as a powertrain supplier.

In a statement, the company said a leading entry, competing in the hypercar class, is powered by a race-optimised version of the Cosworth-developed 6.5-litre naturally-aspirated V12 engine.

Also, advanced Cosworth electronics package featuring latest-generation Antares 8 ECU and Centaurus 5 power distribution system delivers cutting-edge control capabilities.

Cosworth currently provides electronic systems to 85% of the Le Mans grid across all classes, including steering wheels and power boxes.

Cosworth managing director of powertrain Bruce Wood commented: "This is a momentous year for Cosworth, as we return to the pinnacle of sports car racing as an engine supplier, supporting a leading manufacturer in its quest for Le Mans glory."

Cosworth's return to Le Mans builds upon a storied history at the world's most prestigious endurance race.

The company's legendary DFV (Double Four Valve) engine, one of the most successful power units in motorsport history, claimed victory at Le Mans twice in its original 3.0-litre form - powering the Mirage team to victory in 1975 and the Rondeau team in 1980.

These triumphs were part of Cosworth's wider dominance in motorsport, with the DFV engine securing 155 Formula 1 Grand Prix victories between 1967 and 1983, including all Formula 1 World Championships from 1968 to 1974.

In 1969, Cosworth received the Royal Automobile Club's prestigious Dewar Trophy for the DFV's revolutionary design - an honour the company was awarded again in 2024 for its pioneering work in high-performance naturally-aspirated internal combustion engines.