British constructor Pilbeam to return to LMP2 racing in 2014

Pilbeam, run by ex-BRM Formula 1 designer Mike Pilbeam, has revealed images of a new P2 design for next season, which a South African team is hoping to take to the Le Mans 24 Hours.

The MP100 is built around the same carbon monocoque as its predecessor, the MP93 of 2005-07, but has an all-new aerodynamic package.

The first car, which will be run by the South African Zoo Racing team, is powered by a two-litre turbocharged straight-four powerplant developed in the UK by Mountune Racing.

Pilbeam said: "We always wanted to be back into LMP2 after the MP93, but we got involved in other projects that took up our time.

"This car has been in the works for a while. It has been delayed by one or two things, including the choice of engine and the time we have spent on the aerodynamics."

Design and development of the MP100 has been part-funded by the owner of the first chassis, historic racer, car collector and motorsport author Greg Mills from South Africa.

The first MP100 chassis has been shipped to South Africa and is expected to begin testing early in the new year after the bodywork is completed.

A race programme for the car has yet to be fixed, although the plan is for it to race at Le Mans within the next two years.

"The target is Le Mans," explained Pilbeam. "The original plan was for next year, but that could end up moving."