Lamborghini Squadra Corse has unveiled their new LMDh race car, the SC63, at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. This car is set to compete in the 2024 FIA World Endurance Championship and the IMSA WeatherTech Sports Car Championship, taking on iconic races such as the 12 Hours of Sebring, the 24 Hours of Daytona, and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
To ensure its competitiveness on the global stage, the SC63 is equipped with an all-new twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8 engine specifically designed for racing. The engine features a unique “cold V” configuration, with the turbochargers mounted outside the vee angle of the engine. This design allows for easier cooling and servicing of the turbochargers while reducing weight and optimizing the car’s center of gravity.
In compliance with regulations, the engine is paired with a hybrid system, and its output is limited to 671 hp (500 kW / 680 PS). The LMDh rule set also specifies a standard gearbox, battery, and motor generator unit to contain development costs for the prototype.
Lamborghini partnered with Ligier early in the development process, which gave them the freedom to specify certain features of the car. This includes the push rod front suspension design, overall weight distribution, and ease of service for critical parts. The design of the SC63 was crafted by Lamborghini’s Centro Stile and features a colorful livery and Y-shaped lighting units that reflect the brand’s identity.
The car also boasts special touches inspired by Lamborghini’s heritage. For example, a NACA duct on the side panel of the body is reminiscent of the air intake of the Countach. The rear wheel arch design gives the impression of acceleration towards the front, which is a signature design language seen on other Lamborghini models.
The SC63 will soon begin testing, and Lamborghini has ensured that the car offers the widest “operating window” possible to optimize performance while taking care of its tires even on aggressive track surfaces. Due to strict regulations, the company can only make limited modifications to prepare for different tracks and races.
Lamborghini has partnered with Iron Lynx to run the SC63, with one car competing in the World Endurance Championship and another in the IMSA series. The full roster of drivers will be announced later this year, but confirmed pilots include Lamborghini factory drivers Mirko Bortolotti and Andrea Caldarelli, as well as Formula 1 alums Daniil Kvyat and Romain Grosjean.
Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann expressed his excitement about the SC63, calling it the most advanced racing car ever produced by the brand. He emphasized that the car aligns with Lamborghini’s roadmap for the electrification of their product range, as demonstrated by the launch of the road-legal Revuelto. Winkelmann sees the opportunity to compete in major endurance races with a hybrid prototype as fitting with their vision for the future of high-performance mobility.
In conclusion, Lamborghini Squadra Corse has unveiled their new LMDh race car, the SC63, at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. This car is set to compete in prestigious races around the world and features advanced engineering and design elements that reflect Lamborghini’s commitment to high-performance mobility. With its hybrid powertrain and innovative features, the SC63 represents the brand’s vision for the future of racing.