Volume Up – Modified NASCAR Cup Car Tests for 24 Hours of Le Mans (Brutal Sound!)
This upcoming weekend (June 10-11), spectators of the 24 Hours of Le Mans will witness a captivating display of engineering prowess. Among the cars on the grid, there will be one that stands out from the rest. Contrary to its counterparts, this particular machine will closely resemble a typical Chevrolet Camaro commonly seen on American roads. Let’s just say that looks can most certainly be deceiving, though.
The car competing in the Garage 56 class is a collaborative effort between NASCAR, Hendrick Motorsports, Chevrolet, and Goodyear. Don’t worry, all of the data gathered will be publicly available as to not give Hendrick a tuning advantage.
Essentially, the machine that we will see this weekend replicates the next-gen Camaro ZL1, much like those seen in NASCAR Cup Series action on Sundays. The disparities between the Cup Series car and this one are limited to functional headlights and tail lights, an enlarged fuel cell, a set of carbon brake discs, and specially designed Goodyear Eagle race tires for this event.
The Garage 56 class provides a platform for car builders who may not meet all the technical requirements for regular competition, except the safety regulations. Consequently, they do not compete for class or overall victories. Instead, the goal is to assess the capabilities of the new technology featured in this contemporary Cup car.
Behind the wheel, a trio of exceptionally skilled drivers will take charge. This lineup includes two-time 24 Hours of Le Mans winner, Mike Rockenfeller, seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, Jimmie Johnson, and the 2009 Formula 1 World Champion, Jenson Button.
When the green flag waves this weekend, the competition will be fascinating, as we witness how this Camaro-inspired ride holds its own against some of the most technologically advanced racers in the world.
Below, we have the opportunity to experience the Garage 56 car’s full potential as it revs its engine, allowing the melodious V8 to sing as captured by LeMansVidz.
