RML to use Honda engine in LMP2

Date published : 12 Feb 2010 - 15:18:22

RML has announced that it will switch to Honda power for its Lola LMP2 car in 2010.The team is a former LMP2 winner in both the Le Mans Series and the Le Mans 24 Hours, and used Mazda engines in its Lola coupe last year.It will retain the same B08/60 chassis for its 2010 campaign, but will use the Honda engine that powered Acura's LMP2 cars to American Le Mans Series successes. The deal marks the first use of the Acura/Honda LMP2 engine in a different chassis.Drivers Mike Newton and Thomas Erdos both expect the Honda engine to bring them back to the front of the LMP2 pack."All the signs suggest that the HPD LM-V8 will be a highly reliable unit, and should allow us to move forward from the difficult times we've experienced during the last two seasons," Newton said."The team has always been capable of running near the front of the LMP2 class, and given a reliable package we know we can deliver regular podium finishes as well as championship results. The importance of reliability cannot be over-emphasised."Erdos added: "There are still unknowns with the HPD engine, of course - how it will perform in Europe, on European circuits, over the longer distances, and with European fuel - but it's a proven, reliable and powerful unit, and it has tremendous potential for further development."