While we have yet to learn what the Andretti Cadillac Formula 1 car will look like, we currently have a glimpse of the livery of Cadillac Racing’s three electrified V-LMDh race cars that will be debuting at the Rolex 24 at Daytona. Though all three share a graphic and color theme, each will feature a different hue taken from the Cadillac V-Series emblem, with number 01 in gold, number 02 in blue and number 31 in red.
“From an aesthetic point of view, the LMDh regulations allowed us to create a vision for the car that is clearly Cadillac,” says Chris Mikalauskas, lead exterior creative designer for Cadillac. “And that’s really exciting for fans and for people who are true enthusiasts, every car is unique.”
Powering the V-LMDh is an all-new, naturally aspirated LMC55R 5.5L DOHC V8 that’s paired with the LMDh common hybrid system. Developed in-house by Cadillac, the engine is rated up to 670 horsepower (per series specifications) backed by a seven-speed sequential gearbox.
“Cadillac is ready to compete against the very best in North America and internationally — including one of the world’s toughest races, the 24 Hours of Le Mans,” says Rory Harvey, Cadillac’s Global Vice President. “As Cadillac builds toward an all-electric future, the all-new V-LMDh furthers our dedication to exploring new advanced performance technologies.”
The blue number 02 car is a homage to Cadillac’s first entry at Le Mans in 1950, “Le Monstre,” that was driven by Briggs Cunningham. Earl Bamber, Alex Lynn and Richard Westbrook will co-drive the it in FIA WEC competition, including the 100th anniversary Le Mans 24 Hours, and the Rolex 24 At Daytona.
The gold number 01 Cadillac V-LMDh will be driven by Sebastien Bourdais and Renger van der Zande in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship; they will be joined by six-time IndyCar champion and four-time Rolex 24 At Daytona winner Scott Dixon for the 2023 Rolex 24 At Daytona. The red number 31 Whelen Engineering car will be driven by Pipo Derani and Alexander Sims in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. That team will be joined by Jack Aitken throughout the season.
Source: www.classiccars.com