An equivalence system named "Balance of Performance" (BoP) applies to cars entered in the Hypercar, LMGTE Pro and LMGTE Am categories. The aim of BoP is to allow cars of different engineering designs to compete in the same category. The Endurance Committee will make adjustments to the BoP:
- As provided for in the Technical Regulations
- Through dedicated Endurance Committee decisions
Hypercar
In order to ensure sporting equality, the FIA and the ACO rely on the Balance of Performance formula developed jointly by the two parties. The Hypercar BoP has been tailored specifically for the needs of the new category, leaning of the knowledge and experience gained over the years.
The FIA and the ACO have a long history of using BoP, having started in GT racing the mid-2000s, and is constantly improving the process. The best practices and learnings were taken into account in developing the Hypercar BoP.
One of the most innovative solutions is the use of torque meters, allowing for better control of the powertrain parameters on track. These sensors, resistant to electromagnetic field and heat, are implemented onto the driveshafts of the cars to measure and limit the BoP-allocated power. This recently developed technology is effective in limiting development costs.
In 2021, grandfathered non-hybrid LMP1 cars are permitted to race with Hypercars in the top category, with their performance balanced out. In 2022 the regulations will allow LMDh cars, developed jointly by the ACO and IMSA and sharing some parts of the car with the next generation of LMP2 cars, to race in the Hypercar class of the WEC alongside the Hypercar machinery.
LMP2
The FIA and the ACO do not wish to encourage LMP2 manufacturers to pursue performance developments. The main goals for LMP2 cars must be reliability, safety and low maintenance costs.
The development of the cars is “frozen” until the end of 2022.