Cosworth Supplied Technology to 85% of 24 Hours of Le Mans Grid

Cosworth returned to the 24 Hours of Le Mans as a powertrain supplier for the first time since 2015, when it powered the Nissan GT-R LM Nismo. Cosworth’s presence at Le Mans also continued across 85% of the grid, with Cosworth-developed steering wheels, power boxes, loggers, displays and more.

Cosworth’s return to Le Mans builds upon a storied history at the world’s most prestigious endurance race, stated company officials in a press release. The company’s DFV (Double Four Valve) engine claimed victory at Le Mans twice in its original 3.0-liter form—powering the Mirage team to victory in 1975 and the Rondeau team in 1980.

Cosworth’s V-12 Engines for the Aston Martin Hypercars

Two Aston Martin Valkyries competing in the Hypercar class were powered by race-optimized versions of the Cosworth-developed 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V-12 engine. The Valkyries placed No. 13 and No. 15. Originally developed in partnership with Aston Martin for its flagship hypercar road car, the engine was enhanced to incorporate the Balance of Performance requirements of the Hypercar class while maintaining its exceptional power delivery and distinctive high-performance soundtrack, noted the press release.

Beyond the powertrain, Cosworth provided an electronics package featuring the latest generation ECU, the Antares 8, the Centaurus 5 power distribution system and the CCW Mk3 steering wheel. This comprehensive technical partnership showcased Cosworth’s holistic approach to high-performance engineering, delivering both benchmark-setting powertrain technology and sophisticated control systems.

Dr. Florian Kamelger, Cosworth CEO, says, “Cosworth’s return to Le Mans as a power unit supplier marks a significant milestone in our company’s history. This partnership brings together engineering excellence with a shared passion for performance, precision and innovation. This hypercar project represents everything Cosworth stands for—engineering excellence, cutting-edge technology, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. What sets Cosworth apart is our emphasis on strategic and process-driven engineering approach. More than just an engine developer, we have integrated methodologies that ensure excellence in both the final product and the way it is conceived, designed and brought to life.”

Cosworth Across the Grid

While Cosworth’s last entry as a powertrain supplier at Le Mans was in 2015, the company says that it has maintained a significant presence at the legendary endurance race through its state-of-the-art electronics. At the 2024 24 Hours of Le Mans, 85% of the grid utilized Cosworth’s electronics products known as the “ecosystem” across all classes.

A glance at the company’s current racing involvement shows:

• In the LMDh class, Cosworth supplied multiple components to teams including Cadillac, Toyota, Porsche, Alpine and Peugeot.
• In the LMP2 category, all 16 teams used Cosworth’s Spec LMP2 Kit.
• In the LMGT3 class, Cosworth provided critical components, including Power Boxes, ECUs, Loggers and Displays to leading automotive manufacturers’ racing entries.