Ford runs Le Mans hypercar tests at Silverstone

Ford's hypercar, designed to revive the company's storied success at Le Mans, has undergone its initial UK tests at the Silverstone race circuit. The United States automaker last participated in the 24-hour endurance event nearly six decades ago, with its last win coming in 1966. As the sportscar racing pinnacle, the hypercar aims to reclaim its place alongside Ferrari, with whom it once battled fiercely in the 1960s – a rivalry depicted in a film starring Matt Damon and Christian Bale.

Andy Williamson, a team member from Venture Engineering in Witney, Oxfordshire, shared that the first UK tests were highly promising. The hypercar team principal, Dan Sayers, confirmed the tests were progressing well, with the UK weather causing the vehicles to transition from wet to dry track conditions. Commenting on the significance of the upcoming 2027 Le Mans competition, Sayers emphasized that hypercar racing is where manufacturers strive to achieve excellence.

Venture Engineering engineers have been instrumental in the hypercar's development and are also responsible for its logistics. Williamson lauded the team's performance during the initial test session, noting that they surpassed their mileage and time on the track targets. The hypercar, which previously underwent testing in France and Portugal, is scheduled to return to Silverstone in April 2027 before the much-anticipated Le Mans race in June.