Panoz plans LMP1 return

The Panoz marque is aiming to return to top-flight sports car racing with a new front-engined prototype.

Marque founder Don Panoz (above), whose cars won eight American Le Mans Series races between 1999-2002, has revealed that his company is “investigating concepts” that could result in a return to the prototype ranks. It is understood these investigations have led to a decision to build a Chevrolet-engined LMP1 coupé.

Asked whether the car would be front-engined in line with previous prototypes, Don Panoz said: “Is there any other place to put it?”

Panoz refused to put a timescale on the project, but it is thought the team behind the car is aiming for an October debut at the ALMS finale at Laguna Seca.