Hypercar Category (LMH & LMDh)

The Hypercar class is the pinnacle of endurance racing, featuring advanced hybrid and non-hybrid prototypes competing in the FIA WEC. Within this class are two distinct types:

• LMH
  • Fully manufacturer-developed cars.
  • Flexible design regulations allowing hybrid and non-hybrid systems.
  • Examples: Toyota GR010 Hybrid, Ferrari 499P.
• LMDh
  • Combines manufacturer powertrains with standardized chassis from approved suppliers.
  • Mandatory hybrid systems.
  • Examples: Porsche 963, BMW M Hybrid V8.

Advanced Hybrid Management:

• The hybrid system aims to increase fuel efficiency, not outright speed.
• Energy from regenerative braking charges the battery, which is then deployed to reduce fuel consumption by supplementing the internal combustion engine.
• Avoid keeping the battery fully charged, as it prevents regenerative braking, leading to poorer brake performance and overheating.
• Aim to balance battery use strategically across each lap to maximize fuel economy and braking effectiveness.

Virtual Energy Explained:

• Virtual Energy (NRG) is the total energy you’re allowed to use per stint—this combines battery (hybrid) and fuel power and varies by car and circuit  .
• Draining the NRG gauge to 0 incurs a 100-second stop-and-go penalty, with steeper penalties for repeat offenses.
• Monitoring and strategically using your hybrid deployment to stay within energy allowances is crucial.
• Adjusting the Fuel Ratio determines how much fuel is carried during your stint vs NRG

LMH vs LMDh Hybrid Differences

• Both classes are capped at a combined output of 500 kW / 671 bhp.
• LMH hybrids can deploy up to 200 kW and usually feature front-axle MGU with four-wheel-drive above certain speeds.
  • Not all LMH cars have a hybrid system (e.g. Aston Martin Valkyrie, Glickenhaus. Vanwall) - but all LMDh cars do.
• LMDh use a spec MGU limited to 50 kW, used on the rear-axle only.
• The MGU doesn’t increase total power, it replaces ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) torque, keeping you under the 671 bhp limit - it increases efficiency so you carry lest fuel per stint.

Hybrid Setup & Strategy

• Regenerative Braking (“Regen Level”)

  Increase regen to harvest more energy under braking, improving both brake performance and battery refilling.

• Battery Deployment (“Electric Motor Map”)

  Higher map = more battery used under acceleration.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

1. Don’t let battery reach 100% - regeneration stops and you lose braking efficiency = additional chance of locking your wheels.
2. Don’t hit 0% battery before a pit stop - especially in LMDh, or you may be stranded (they use the battery for pitlane power).
3. Stay within NRG limits - exceeding it causes major penalties.
4. Avoid overfilling fuel - extra fuel adds weight without extra energy budget.

Driving Tips:

• Master hybrid deployment timing for optimal fuel savings.
• Prioritize managing tyre wear and fuel strategies.
• Anticipate traffic and utilize superior straight-line speed effectively.
• Always maintain partial battery charge to benefit from regenerative braking consistently.