Observe Ford's Hypercar V8 as it revs during a lap of Le Mans on the dynamometer.
Screenshots courtesy of Ford Racing YouTube
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The Ford Racing team is making significant progress as they prepare for their inaugural race in the WEC Hypercar class next year. We have followed their journey closely, from the team's formation to the decision to use a Coyote V8 and the first test of the engine. Ford has now released a video showcasing that V8 as it simulates a lap of the Circuit de la Sarthe on the dyno.
Ford refers to this as its “virtual proving ground,” which accurately describes its purpose. With a team of simulator drivers setting a benchmark for the engine department, the V8 can replicate a lap of the renowned circuit, mirroring an actual lap "driven" by a professional driver using Ford's multi-million-dollar simulator. This is significant because it demonstrates that Ford is not merely testing a flawless lap dictated by software, but rather a lap influenced by human factors, including experience, nuances, and even possible errors.
La Sarthe on the dyno.
With three drivers per car and an average of six to eight driver changes during a 24-hour race, it is essential for engineers to understand how the engine will perform with each driver throughout the event. Although every driver approaches the car with a common objective, their individual driving styles and resource management strategies may vary. By considering these elements during dyno testing, the team gains a competitive advantage when they take to the track.
From a fan's viewpoint, it's fascinating to observe the significant forces an engine endures during such a long and high-speed lap. It's astonishing to realize that in this year's race, the victorious Toyota completed 381 laps around the 8.46-mile circuit. The forces, heat, and overall stress that these components must withstand highlight the remarkable engineering that goes into them.
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Observe Ford's Hypercar V8 as it revs during a lap of Le Mans on the dynamometer.
With a wealth of data coming in from Ford Racing's multi-million-dollar simulator, dyno engineers can begin simulating laps at the Circuit de la Sarthe.