The Cadillac Project GTP Hypercar is here, and it’s heading for Le Mans

Announced last summer and teased again earlier this winter, Cadillac has finally pulled the covers off the Project GTP Hypercar that it’ll take to the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2023.

Like everything else conforming to the new LMDh regulations, the Project GTP Hypercar will use a hybrid system shared with all its competitors, but the 5.5-litre V8 will be Cadillac’s own.

The rules allow for a maximum of 630bhp to be drawn from the engine, with a stock electric motor from Bosch contributing another 67bhp. Combined output is limited to 671bhp. Total weight is locked in at 1,030kg.

Built on a Dallara chassis, the hypercar features everything from aggressive aero to clever LED tech. If you look closely you’ll also notice the ‘Le Monstre’ motifs, a nod to the nickname given to Cadillac’s first Le Mans entry way back in 1950.

“Competing for the overall win at Le Mans with an iconic American brand like Cadillac is an honour,” said Laura Wontrop Klauser, GM sports car racing program manager. “The entire team is excited to continue building Cadillac’s racing legacy by competing against the very best internationally and in the world's toughest race.”

Ah yes, the competition. Le Mans is gearing up to what looks like another golden age beginning in 2023, with Audi, Porsche, Acura, and BMW all signed up for the same LMDh category next year (Alpine and Lamborghini will follow in 2024). Meanwhile Peugeot and Ferrari are among those working on entries in the LMH side of the Hypercar class.

“The Project GTP Hypercar is a unique convergence of form and function and showcases Cadillac’s future performance aesthetic,” said Chris Mikalauskas, lead exterior creative designer, Cadillac. “We have plenty more to come, from the upcoming race car to amazing production vehicles.”

Not only will Cadillac be taking on Le Mans next year, the company has said it will contest full seasons in both the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar championship and the World Endurance Championship, something that’s now possible thanks to a shared rulebook.

Testing will commence in the summer, with the driver line-up set to be announced at a later date. The car will make its debut at the 24 Hours of Daytona next January.

Are you excited for what next season will bring?