Porsche has announced plans to use a second Evo joker for its 963 prototype, enhancing the vehicle ahead of the 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship and IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship seasons. This move follows the use of an initial joker to implement updates prior to the 2024 racing seasons. These homologation allowances are part of a permitted five-joker cycle, with Porsche set to have utilized two by 2025.
Urs Kuratle, Porsche LMDh factory director, confirmed the developments in Bahrain, where the team is preparing for the season-ending 8 Hours of Bahrain. The 963, built on a Multimatic chassis, will receive successive front suspension updates. “We tested some components [for 2025],” Kuratle said. He indicated that discussions with regulatory bodies were ongoing, with final written approval expected soon.
The new upgrades are set to be tested at Daytona International Speedway during the IMSA-sanctioned test and will be equipped on both factory and customer cars, including those fielded by JDC-Miller Motorsports. Kuratle highlighted that the upgrades are part of an evolution aimed at increasing the adjustability and operational range of the 963, benefiting engineering setup flexibility.
This follows Porsche’s earlier use of a joker for updates rolled out at the 2024 Rolex 24 at Daytona, marking the brand as the first LMDh manufacturer to activate an Evo joker. Those changes included front suspension sensor improvements, such as a brake pressure sensor, as part of the car’s homologation.
Next year’s updates will involve additional hardware and mounting points, signaling a comprehensive step forward. “There are more parts involved,” Kuratle said, emphasizing that the modifications will provide a broader setup window, accommodating varying conditions such as those experienced in races like Qatar.
Compliance with IMSA and ACO regulations will require all 963s to adopt the updated components by January’s Rolex 24. The team is gearing up for production and distribution to customer teams. “JDC confirmed already that they want to be at the Daytona sanctioned test this year and run these parts,” Kuratle noted, expressing confidence in the rollout barring unforeseen complications.
With final written approval imminent, Porsche is poised to deliver and integrate the new components, aiming to enhance the competitive edge of its 963 prototype in the coming season.
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