The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the world’s oldest supercar race that still exists today and continues to be one of the most anticipated sports events in the racing calendar. This year, the town of Le Mans in France will host the 83rd edition of this historic race. More than 260,000 are expected to attend this prestigious event that takes place in the North-West of France. Surpassing 4,500km, more than 50 competing sports cars race for a breathtaking 24 hours. The 24 Hours of Le Mans 2015 commences at 3pm (local time) on Saturday 13th June.
This prestigious automobile race is incredibly testing for both the drivers and cars, pushing endurance and efficiency to the absolute maximum. Drivers often race for more than two hours before alternating. Meanwhile, racing teams employ the most complex of tactics to optimise performance whilst constantly maintaining the cars’ condition and fuel levels.
Porsche are the most successful constructor in the history of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, with 16 titles to their name. However, with only 16 years of history to their name, first competing in 1999, Audi have finished triumphant an astonishing 13 times. After sealing a one-two victory at the 24 hours of Le Mans 2014, Audi will of course be looking to retain their title.
The Audi R8 sports-prototype race car is the most successful sports car in its class, having won the 24 Hours of Le Mans an astounding five out of the six years in which they have participated. Its successor, the Audi R18 e-tron quattro is a hybrid that features a TDI 4.0L V6 turbocharged diesel engine. This latest model boasts a stunning aerodynamic design and uses state-of-the-art technology. The result: ferocious power whilst consuming less fuel, leading to its third consecutive victory in 2014.
The two legends, Audi and Porsche, are accompanied by Toyota and new competitors Nissan as acclaimed favourites at this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans. Each has taken a very different approach. Kick starting from ground zero in only 14 months, Nissan is throwing a real curveball, debuting a conceptual masterpiece, the GTR-LM Nismo. This front-wheel-drive hybrid, with a staggering 1,250bhp, could be the ultimate underdog.
The 24 Hours of Le Mans 2015 has been predicted to be the quickest yet, particularly as the featured hybrids look ferociously fast. With no clear favourite emerging before this weekend, this year’s race could be the tightest and most fascinating in history.
