Vanwall plotting WEC comeback with upgraded hypercar

Vanwall is preparing to return to action in the World Endurance Championship after two years of work to update and improve its hypercar.

After a brief stint in the top endurance series, the British brand's car, prepared by ByKolles Racing, has remained inactive over the last two years. But the Austrian team has been working to resolve the issues that arose during its difficult 2023 adventure in the Hypercar class.

The tests that had been organised were not only to install the 3.5-litre twin-turbo V8 Pipo engine (the same as the Glickenhaus SCG 007) in place of the 4.5-litre naturally-aspirated Gibson V8 that had caused Colin Kolles' team so much trouble, but also to review some aerodynamic and mechanical parts.

In addition to the powertrain, the Vandervell 680 LMH has undergone extensive revisions, with particular attention given to air intakes and airflow management. Radiator and intercooler performance, as well as exhaust gas flow efficiency, have also been optimised to complement the increased engine output.

The Automobile Club de l'Ouest's decision to open up the Asian Le Mans Series to LMH and LMDh prototypes has reignited enthusiasm and given manufacturers currently absent from the world championship the opportunity to get their cars back on track.

#4 Floyd Vanwall Racing Team Vanwall Vandervell 680: Esteban Guerrieri, Tristan Vautier, Ryan Briscoe

Photo by: JEP / Motorsport Images

On Thursday evening, Vanwall issued an official statement declaring its intention to take part in the 2026-2027 Asian LMS season, which will give private teams and bronze-rated drivers the opportunity to get behind the wheel of top-category prototypes.

Vanwall also laid outs its intention to make a comeback into the WEC in 2027, subject to approval from ACO and the FIA.

"The careful performance analysis from our initial WEC campaign clearly identified important areas to improve" said Kolles, "I am confident the actions taken following the technical review and the latest modifications incorporated will bring significant on-track improvement.

"We have had very constructive discussions with the WEC and ACO regarding rejoining the WEC in 2027 but as always participation is dependent on the team being invited to compete. Our support for the new 2026 ALMS Hypercar category is a clear statement of our intent and commitment to the future."

In its sole WEC season in 2023, Vanwall managed a best Hypercar finish of eighth in class (but 30th overall) in the Sebring season opener. While Esteban Guerrieri contested the entire season, no fewer than five drivers took turns in the remaining two seats.