Isotta Fraschini on 4WD test bench, ‘ahead of schedule’

The new Isotta Fraschini Tipo 6 LMH Competizione has been recently put through its paces on a 4-wheel-drive test bench, with the revived Italian manufacturer featuring a video on its YouTube channel of the process.

The car will run an 3.0-litre V6 turbo engine exclusively designed by the team by engine specialists HWA, as well as a hybrid unit, making the car 4WD, the same as its competition from Toyota, Peugeot, and Ferrari. LMDh-rules cars are 2WD, with the hybrid adding to the power from the ICE on the rear axle.

The Tipo 6 LMH Competizione is due to be tested for the first time in a roll out at the Italian circuit Vallelunga in the next few days, according to Endurance-Info.

The programme will be operated by British-based team Vector Sport, currently competing in the LMP2 class of the FIA World Endurance Championship. MotorsportWeek.com spoke to Vector Sport’s team principal, Gary Holland, at Super Sebring about the project. 

RelatedPosts

Alessio Rovera: ‘Ferrari was really good, but dirty air made it tough’

23 hours ago

James Calado: Ferrari ‘spot on with strategy’ as team claims 1-2

23 hours ago

“We’re pushing for Monza. The car’s in a very good position. It’s ahead of schedule and we could be racing it a lot sooner, but Monza’s the target,” the Briton said.

With the 6 Hours of Monza, in July, being the target for the Tip 6 LMH Competizione’s race debut, the two outfits have a full test and development programme outlined to get the car on pace with its competition.

In regards to the team and manufacturer benefitting from a longer test programme rather than rushing it to race earlier, Holland was effusive that the two could have been ready earlier.

“The plan was good anyway, there was sufficient testing planned,” he said.

“I have absolutely zero worries about the car being on pace and in the mix. But, it’s up to us to turn up and race the car. So it does allow us a little bit more comfort, but I don’t feel it was required. 

“But I understand why we weren’t granted an entry in the first instance, we respect the decision and we’ll work with it, and hopefully, we’ll see everyone in Monza.

“Ultimately here, there are Hypercars mixed in within the LMP2 field. We don’t want to be that. So yeah, we won’t be racing the car until it’s absolutely ready to show it’s true performance,” concluded the Vector Sport team principal.