07:40 07-04-2026

Ford hypercar with 5.4L V8 engine targets Le Mans endurance racing

Ford is in the final phase of developing a hypercar for endurance racing, featuring a 5.4L V8 engine. Testing starts in 2026, aiming for reliability at events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Ford is entering the final development phase for a new hypercar designed to return the brand to top-tier endurance racing, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Full-scale testing of the vehicle is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2026.

The project is on track, with the team preparing to assemble a complete prototype in the coming months. At the heart of the hypercar is a 5.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine based on the Coyote family. Unlike competitors such as the turbocharged Ferrari 499P, Ford is focusing on simplicity and reliability. For endurance racing, this matters because success depends not just on power but on the ability to withstand multi-day stresses without failures.

After assembly, the car will be sent to France for initial tuning, where the team will conduct a week of tests. This will be followed by a full 30-hour session in Europe to evaluate the vehicle's durability and stability.

The final testing phase will take place in the United States, including the demanding Sebring circuit. Any delays could significantly impact the entire project, so the schedule is extremely tight.

The hypercar is part of Ford's broader strategy to strengthen its presence in motorsport. The company has already launched the Mustang GT3 program and is collaborating with Red Bull Racing in Formula 1. This project aims to enhance the brand's image and contribute to the development of production cars through track-tested technologies.

Overall, Ford is betting on proven solutions and endurance rather than peak power. If the naturally aspirated V8 strategy proves successful, the brand could return to the forefront of endurance racing.