The Secrets of the Ferrari Engine that Won the 24 Hours of Le Mans

Ferrari wins the 24 Hours of Le Mans for the second consecutive time thanks to a pure-bred car, the Ferrari 499P.

In the car’s name, P refers to prototype and 499 to the unit capacity of the cylinders in cubic centimeters. Small and very light, the 6-cylinder engine of 2994 cm3 at 120° has two turbos located in the angle of the two rows of cylinders. This is an evolution of the engine from the Ferrari 296 GTB, the first hybrid berlinetta in the history of the legendary manufacturer from Maranello. Its compactness has allowed for a very fine and fluid design.

Worthy heir of the Ferrari legacy

From the 296 GTB to the 499P, passing through the devilish LaFerrari, the company with the Cavalino Rampante has proven to be at the forefront of electrification in sports models, to the point of winning the greatest endurance race in the world upon its return after a 50-year absence.

The hybrid propulsion system of the 499P includes a central rear power unit combined with an electric motor driving the front axle. The internal combustion engine develops a power limited by regulations to 680 hp transmitted only to the rear wheels.

Reliability and performance

This hybrid powertrain is complemented by an energy recovery system, delivering a maximum power of 200 kW (272 hp). The electric motor is equipped with a differential and powered by a battery that recharges during deceleration and braking. The battery pack, with a nominal voltage of 900 V, benefits from the experience gained by Ferrari in Formula 1, although it has been specifically designed for the 499P. The hybrid powertrain is paired with a seven-speed sequential gearbox.

After 24 hours of effort, Ferrari has conquered not only the legendary Le Mans track but above all a prestigious list of competitors including Porsche, Toyota, Cadillac, Alpine, Lamborghini, and Peugeot.

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