With the purchase of the Norma LMP3 project by Duqueine Engineering this writer had presumed that Norma was no more, and whilst in the purest sense that is true, the outfit has evolved, with Guillem Roux and Camille Gautré Santos (daughter of Norbert) creating NOVA PROTO as a successor to the previous concern, Norma founder Norbert Santos is effectively at least semi-retired,
The company’s heritage is still important, commercially and reputationally.
Since its creation, Nova Proto has been in charge of maintenance and spare parts for all of the most recent Norma CN prototypes: M20, M20F and M20FC as well as older Norma machines including, where appropriate, with on-event support.
Beyond that though the product line has evolved, with a trio of new machines now sold under the Nova-Proto brand.
NP01 is an updated version of the long-lived CN prototype range from Norma whilst NP03 is an entry-level ‘school’ prototype.
NP02 though is something altogether different.
LMP3-like in profile, though somewhat sleeker than the prevailing Ligier and Duqueine offerings, the HP02 follows much the same formula – carbon fibre tub plus steel rollcage clad in a carbon fibre ‘coupe’ body and powered by a big V8 – in this case of Ford heritage rather than Nissan (in LMP3).
The Ultimate Cup has introduced a specific category for the cars in their Prototype Series and is finding plenty of takers, nine NP02s formed part of the 25 car Endurance Prototype Challenge entry at the 2023 season opener at Paul Ricard, the top cars’ 400 bhp power and lightweight 765 kg keeping them well in touch with the LMP3s with two of the nine finishing on the overall podium!
Added to the appeal is a price tag that is around half of the cost of an homologated LMP3 with teo customers telling DSC that the car is a better handling and sweeter driving proposition than the ACO’s hugely successful entry-level prototype.
Long-standing prototype racer Nick Adcock is an early adopter. He has raced the Nova NP02 in Europe and has just taken delivery of his own brand-new car set for action in the South African Endurance Championship.
The NP02 will not be eligible for Michelin Le Mans Cup, but it does provide another accessible rung on the endurance racing ladder!
Technical details:
- Engine: Ford 5 litre V8 as standard
- Lubrication: Dry sump
- Power: Approximately 400 horsepower
- Transmissions: SADEV 6-speed gearbox with paddle shift. Fuel tank : 80 litre capacity, FIA standard.
- Tyres: Michelin Front: 27/65×18 – Rear: 30/68×18
- Weight : 765 Kg
