Aston Martin LMP1

Crack sportscar squad Aston Martin is hoping to make history again at the 24 hour race in Le Mans this year.

Using an all-new LMP1 machine, the team is gunning for outright victory in the classic 24 hour race – 50 years after it first stepped on to the top step of the podium.

Two factory-backed machines will be entered, both finished in the historic blue and orange paintwork of title sponsor Gulf oil. A third car is planned, but not yet confirmed.

Under the skin, the car gets a powerful V12 petrol engine based on the unit used in the GT1 DB9 that has taken class honours at the enduro for the past two years.

But the outfit will face stiff competition from the diesel-powered Audi R15 and Peugeot 908. The French squad is hoping to beat its German rival’s five-year winning streak. The race takes place on 13/14 June.

However, Aston Martin chairman David Richards is relishing the challenge.

“This is a hugely significant year for Aston Martin at Le Mans”, claimed the former boss of the Subaru world rally team. “The challenge of reclaiming victory in this famous race for Aston Martin and Great Britain was simply too great to ignore."

"Competing against the proven speed and endurance of the diesel-powered cars with all their years of winning the prototype class will be a massive undertaking. Nonetheless, I see this as a great opportunity to showcase the ingenuity of British engineering talent".

Aston Martin Boss, Dr Ulrich Bez agreed, "We have a great team, great technology and a great chance. It's a leap of faith, but something I hope the fans will relate to... Not least because this will be the most beautiful car there, and becasue it will be powered by an engine that is also available in our road cars."

Designed by Lola, and styled by Aston's Director of Design, Marek Reichman the LMP1 machine has been carefully detailed to represent the firm's road car lineage...

At the front, the race machine gets a distinctive front grille, while at the rear, there are C-section lights, like those fitted to the DB9 and DBS.

"It's every designers dream to be involved in a project like this," he said "we wanted the car to be instantly recognisable."

"We are planning to do something clever with the car's lighting - maybe using LED technology. As so many fans only get to see the car for a moment in each lap, I want to make sure it's memorable."

UPDATE: Auto Express has teamed up with Le Mans experts Travel Destinations to bring readers some irresistible self-drive packages for the Le Mans 24 hours, which takes place on the 13th and 14th of June 2009.

The Auto Express chateau camping is located on the river Sarthe close the beautiful and peaceful village of Malicorne-sur-Sarthe yet only 30 minutes from all the action at the circuit. Auto Express chateau camping will appeal to those who are looking for an upgrade from camping on-circuit but still want to be part of the action.

Full details are available here