Dome President Hiroshi Fushida was doing the rounds in the Le Mans paddock this morning as the fan favourite constructor looks to get backers and customers for their 2014 LMP programme.
“It is the same basic structure for both cars but of course with a different width and different aero for the two cars as the regulations from 2014 mean the LMP1 car is narrower.
“We would, of course, love to do LMP1, the new car looks very promising and is already producing better results than the old car, but realistically to build this car we need to find a team or client, I would not like to have to commit the resources that would be needed to do this without support.
“We are talking to potential clients but with the combination of the economic factors, and the fact that teams are unsure how the balance of performance will work out with the new regulations.
“At the moment the LMP2 car looks more likely, there is interest in the project and I think if we get orders for two cars we will certainly progress the project. The problem with LMP2 is that whilst there is a market, there is little or no money to be made by a constructor!”
We heard from Rebellion that they were impressed with your project but that the logistics involved with a Japan-based constructor with a new car was a risk they didn’t need to take?
“I understand the point perfectly but the reality is that if and when we start the project we would establish a European satellite operation, exactly as we did when Pescarolo ran the old car.”
“I believe we will be here with LMP2 cars next year and if a P1 customer comes too we would be delighted of course.
