The Lister Storm LMP1 Hybrid will make its’ debut in the LMES round at Silverstone this weekend – a night race which starts at 16.00 on Saturday finishing around 5 ½ hours  (or 1000km) later.

The hybrid is the first stage of Lister’s programme to produce an LMP1 for 2006 with the bodywork reflecting the new aerodynamic rules.  To explain, the hybrid uses the same chassis/tub as the LMP900 car – the LMP1 must have a new chassis designed to fit the regulations for 2005.

The design is revolutionary and we believe the first LMP1 Hybrid to explore the regulations;  it is not just a re-working of the LMP900. Apart from the chassis, engine and some of the mechanical components everything is different.

The Storm LMP1 Hybrid has been designed using UGS PLM design software – a product which takes the design from its’ inception, right through the manufacturing, development and maintenance programme.  Lister has been supported by UGS for some years now, using their programming for innovative designs on both the LMP and GT Storms.

First tested at Snetterton last Monday, 8th August, the prototype ran trouble free for 100 laps with Justin and Jens.  Laurence - ‘We can see a massive potential in this new car; but that is exactly what it is – new’.   The aerodynamics need to be fully explored so more wind tunnel work and testing will be undertaken.  Even so, the times set at Snetterton, on 75 lap race tyres, and poor track conditions, were excellent.  Laurence again -  ‘I see the race at Silverstone this weekend very much as a test – so don’t expect any mega times’.

Our drivers for Silverstone will be Justin Keen and Jens Moller – Jan Magnussen is racing at Watkins Glen on Friday evening.