Porsche returns to Le Mans in 2014

After what will end up being a 16 year hiatus, Porsche will be making its long overdue return to the top class of the LeMans series in 2014. Starring in the grand return will be a works-run LMP1 sports prototype for which details are still limited - almost non-existent actually.

However, regardless of whether it is a coupe or an open top model, the future LMP1 will more than likely feature new technologies from Porsche. Hartmut Kristen, Head of Porsche Motorsport said: "We’re looking forward to the task of developing new technologies and to continue on with the success of the Porsche RS Spyder. After the conclusion of our works-supported sports prototype programme in the American Le Mans Series we have kept up with the latest technological advances. Now we will begin with detailed research in order to evaluate the various concept alternatives for our new car. These obviously depend on how the regulations for the year 2014 look in detail. In principle, these regulations are interesting for us because the integration of our hybrid technology in the vehicle concept is one possible option."

Porsche currently dominates the LeMans series with a total of 16 overall victories, including seven straight victories from 1981 to 1987. The most recent win was with the Porsche 911 GT1 in 1998. In the LMP2 series, Porsche has continued its success with wins in 2006, 2008, and then again in 2010 with their RS Spyder sports prototype.