The REBELLION R-ONE LM P1-L as seen by David Floury
General approach
« The design bureau began the prototype study from a blank page and completed the project in record time. Barely 12 months from the first pen stroke to the shakedown ! We rely on our previous experience in order to reach our objectives. Of course, the approach had to be pragmatic and « efficient » along the same lines as the FIA/ACO technical regulations. »
The Look
« We had no limit in terms of design. For example, there was no obligation to have very low sidepods. It was the aerodynamic developments and simulator results that dictated this choice. Then there were a few details where we could take a few liberties, such as integrating the REBELLION logo above the headlamps. But it was always performance that guided our choices. »
The parameters
« There was a lot to take into account, above and beyond the aerodynamics. We had an objective in terms of usage : to have a true capacity to affect the car’s settings, accessibility to parts, as well as the life cycle of said parts. We also had to adapt to the new regulations and to energy management which have a heavy impact on the car’s functions. Therefore we looked to reduce drag, focus on weight balance, etc. »
The nose
« There wasn’t a desire to have an either wide or thin nose. The ORECA 01 had a thin nose, but that’s because we began with an exisiting design. With the R-One, we had more latitude. Honestly, we have solutions for noses that are more original and perform better, but these were not realistic for a private constructor and in the time frame we had. It’s a compromise you have to find and accept. »
Wisdom
« Innovation implies much research and development. At the same time, our budget isn’t the same as the major manufacturers and our situation doesn’t allow for maximum risk taking. Everything must be weighed with innovation against risk taken. It’s a fine balance that must be found between risk and reward. »
363 days
« That’s the time between the first piece designed and the first roll out. It was 12 very intense months for the Design Bureau which led this exciting project. There were moments of reflection, even questions. But that’s common in this type of project. You must always anticipate potential problems in order to find solutions. In terms of the planning, we knew it would be tight. Homologation tests are not easy moments because passing them on the first try is not always the case for everyone. But we did it. »
Feather weight
« Weight was clearly an important factor in our work. It’s not a question of losing weight on such and such part, but a global philosophy. Therefore we looked to optimise everything and to shed every gram everywhere possible. For example, we worked very hard on the monocoque. We have a certain latitude when it comes to weight and ballasts. This initial objective was more than reached. »
Magic
« The final phase where the car is assembled is the most magical especially with the first roll out. It’s finally the moment where all of that work from the last few weeks or months is realised on the track. It’s the first result of sorts. Completing the first few meters at Le Mans will also likely be a big moment, but the baby will have already grown up. »
360°
« Le Mans will be intense for ORECA. Intense and exciting with TOYOTA Racing, with the REBELLION R-One and the ORECA 03R. Our approach is pragmatic and structured to manage all at once. It’s all one big family on location, but the players will be different, with teams dedicated to TOYOTA, to the development of the R-One and the customer support for the LM P2 teams. Our efforts are compartmentalised, with shared passion and objectives : lead our projects to success. »