As has been expected for some time, Porsche has confirmed that the chassis for its upcoming LMDh program will be developed by Multimatic, with the platform also to be shared with Audi.
The LMDh regulations stipulate that all prototypes in the class must be based on the chassis of one of four approved manufacturers (in common with LM P2): Multimatic, Oreca, Dallara and Ligier. According to Porsche, sharing the chassis with Audi “will result in more positive synergy in the joint development of the new racing cars”.
“Multimatic is the most obvious and logical solution for us,” said Fritz Enzinger, VP of Porsche Motorsport. “We have known this highly respected company and its team of experienced professionals for many years and are absolutely convinced of the quality of their work. We don’t have to set up a completely new business relationship with them, but can hit the ground running – that’s vital and is exactly what is needed when developing a new racing car. It is imperative that we eliminate friction losses to ensure that we are able to do a perfect job and deliver what is needed fast. There’s another factor of inestimable benefit: one part of Multimatic, like our team partner Penske, is based in Mooresville in North Carolina. Short distances and direct lines of communication will be of tremendous help in the development of the future LMDh prototype and in competition.”
Though not widely publicized, Multimatic has been a component supplier to Porsche Motorsport for many years, most recently providing dampers to the new Porsche 911 GT3 Cup. Its suspension components were also installed in the Porsche 919 Hybrid Evo, as well as in the Porsche 99X Electric Formula E car and the 911 RSR GTE car.
“This partnership with Porsche Motorsport is the culmination of 30 years of building our expertise in the area of competition vehicle engineering and development. It is a privilege to be chosen by Porsche for their next chapter in global hybrid prototype competition,” noted Larry Holt, EVP at Multimatic Special Vehicle Operations.
“The LMDh concept and rules convergence between the FIA WEC and IMSA championships are unprecedented, and Multimatic’s commitment to the new model is all-in. The collaboration has already proved to be seamless and the enthusiasm of the team is palpable in every meeting. I am equally delighted with the recent Porsche Penske Motorsport announcement as we have enjoyed a long relationship with Roger Penske and his organization, as both collaborator and competitor. I can think of no better team than our North Carolina neighbor to campaign the new cars.”
