Aston Martin launches new AMR-One Le Mans racer

Aston Martin Racing has unveiled an all new, ground-up developed race car for the LMP1 class of Le Mans called the AMR-One.

The car is a drastic departure from that of the previous year due to new rules instigated by the ACO, the governing body of Le Mans, for the 2011 season. For starters the AMR-One is comprised of a new bespoke carbon fibre chassis that features an open cockpit. The engine has also been significantly downsized - a turbocharged 2.0 litre six cylinder direct injection petrol engine has been fitted to replace the obligatory V12 of previous years.

Of the decision to develop this engine, AMR Team Principal George Howard-Chappell said: “We have chosen to run with a six cylinder turbocharged engine because we believe this offers the best potential within the petrol engine regulations. With the ACO’s commitment to effectively balance the performance of petrol and diesel Le Mans entrants – our hopes are high that we’ll see the closest racing yet in the premiere LMP1 category.”

The engine will produce around 540bhp and will feed this power to the rear wheels via a six-speed semi-automaticXtrac racing gearbox.

Aston Martin plan to build a total of six AMR-Ones, one of which will be raced in the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup and two at selected race events. Testing is expected to begin in March.