Ligier has unveiled its new JS2.R racing GT car at the Paris Motor Salon. Jacques Nicolet, CEO of Ligier-Onroak Automotive presented the car on Thursday on B.R.M Chronographes’ stand in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the brand.
“What better way to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Ligier’s brand than a new sports car? With its iconic livery, all is said. Ligier renews with the GT category,” Nicolet said.
“Remember, it was Guy Ligier’s first love. In 1969, he had launched the Ligier JS1, the brand’s first model, and in 1972, the Ligier JS2. We designed the Ligier JS2 R, a revival car, as a real racing car. A car to give maximum pleasure on the track, in races or on track days. Because this is what matters. I hope you will like it as much as we do.”
A one-make Series, the Ligier JS Cup France, will be launched next month for 2019.
The Ligier JS2 R takes its inspiration from the Ligier JS2 (above – pic by Brian Snelson) that finished second at the 1975 Le Mans 24 Hours. In common with the earlier car the new Ligier is designed as a real racing car. One difference though is that, as yet, there are no plans announced for a road-going version, the original car did have some roadgoing cousins!
Powered by the same 330 bhp Ford V6 3.7 litre engine that is installed in the Ligier JS P4 prototype, the JS2.R weighs just 980 kg, and is fitted with a 100 litre fuel tank, BREMBO brakes, centrifugal clutch, adjustable dampers, steering wheel paddle shift and heated windscreen.
The car has been designed to give low running costs, long gaps between revisions and easy mechanical maintenance.
The Ligier JS2 R can be homologated in the FIA Free Formula Sports Cars (Group E) category and is equipped with cutting-edge safety equipment.
Various test days are scheduled in November 2018 in Europe. The first deliveries are scheduled in January 2019.
