Ford’s ambitious return to top-level sportscar racing has taken a significant step forward. The American manufacturer’s brand-new LMDh prototype completed its first on-track shakedown at Circuit Paul Ricard on Monday, marking the beginning of an intensive testing programme ahead of its planned World Endurance Championship debut in 2027.
The choice of the French circuit was no accident. Paul Ricard sits close to the headquarters of ORECA, the renowned French constructor whose chassis forms the backbone of Ford’s new challenger. This proximity allows for seamless collaboration between Ford’s engineering team and ORECA’s specialists during the crucial early development phase.
While the prototype remains unnamed for now, it is powered by a 5.4-litre naturally-aspirated V8 engine derived from Ford’s legendary Coyote family. This engine choice signals a clear commitment to a traditional, high-revving powerplant in an era where many competitors have opted for turbocharged units. The Coyote V8 has a storied history in Ford performance vehicles, and its adaptation for endurance racing represents a fascinating engineering challenge.
A New Chapter for Ford in Endurance Racing
Ford’s LMDh project is arguably its most significant sportscar programme since the iconic GT40 era. The company has a rich history at Le Mans, with four consecutive overall victories in the 1960s. More recently, Ford enjoyed success with the GT programme that claimed class wins at Le Mans in 2016 and 2017. Now, the focus shifts to the overall classification.
The LMDh regulations, jointly developed by IMSA and the FIA, allow manufacturers to compete in both the World Endurance Championship and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship with the same car. This dual-platform strategy is a key attraction for Ford, which has a strong presence in North America. The ability to compete for overall wins at Le Mans, Daytona, and Sebring with a single design is a compelling proposition.
Ford’s decision to partner with ORECA is a strategic one. ORECA has extensive experience in building competitive LMDh and LMP2 chassis, and their track record includes multiple Le Mans class wins and overall victories in various championships. This collaboration gives Ford a solid foundation upon which to build a race-winning package.
Technical Highlights and Development Roadmap
The 5.4-litre Coyote-derived V8 is an interesting choice. While many LMDh competitors have opted for smaller displacement turbocharged engines, Ford’s naturally-aspirated V8 offers a distinctive sound and character. The engine is being developed in-house by Ford Performance, drawing on their extensive experience in NASCAR and other motorsport disciplines.
The LMDh regulations mandate a spec hybrid system supplied by Bosch, Williams Advanced Engineering, and Xtrac. This system delivers a combined output of approximately 500kW (670bhp) when the hybrid is deployed. The internal combustion engine and the hybrid system work together to provide the required performance, with the electric motor assisting at lower speeds and during acceleration.
The shakedown at Paul Ricard was likely a low-key affair focused on systems checks and basic functionality. The next steps will involve more extensive testing at various circuits, development of the aero package, and endurance validation runs. Ford will need to complete a rigorous testing programme before the car is homologated for racing.
What This Means for the WEC and IMSA
Ford’s entry into LMDh is a major boost for both the WEC and IMSA. The championship grids are already packed with manufacturers like Toyota, Ferrari, Porsche, Cadillac, and BMW, and Ford’s arrival adds another iconic name to the roster. The rivalry between Ford and Ferrari, which was so intense in the 1960s, could be rekindled at Le Mans, providing a compelling narrative for fans.
For IMSA, Ford’s participation strengthens the series’ already impressive manufacturer lineup. The prospect of Ford fighting for overall victory at Daytona and Sebring will undoubtedly attract significant attention from American motorsport fans. Ford has a loyal following, and their return to top-level prototype racing is likely to generate considerable excitement.
The LMDh platform also offers a cost-effective way for manufacturers to compete at the highest level. The spec hybrid system and common chassis components help to keep costs under control, making it a more accessible entry point than the rival LMH category. This has been a key factor in attracting manufacturers like Ford to the category.
As Ford embarks on this new chapter, the motorsport world will be watching closely. The shakedown is just the first step on a long road to Le Mans, but it is a crucial one. With a solid technical foundation, a proven partner in ORECA, and a rich heritage in endurance racing, Ford has every reason to be optimistic about its chances. The 2027 season cannot come soon enough for Ford fans and sportscar enthusiasts alike.
