Duqueine’s D08 prototype proved to be the biggest challenge to the dominant Ligier prototypes in the second generation of LMP3, and for the new generation it underwent several revisions to the cooling system and the aerodynamics of the rear section, all developed together with Michelotto, which is also Duqueine’s partner in the Isotta Fraschinni Hypercar program.
Interestingly, in the renderings presented by Duqueine, the D09 appears with a different canard solution at the front, going from double element (1a) to a simpler, smaller element (1b), which indicates that the changes made have had a greater impact on the aerodynamics of the car. Interestingly, we see a similar scenario in the fifth-generation Sigma P1 prototype, with teams adopting canard solutions of both types, including the two styles applied to different cars during the same race (see image below for reference).
Furthermore, the changes are really concentrated at the rear, with the exhaust ducts (2) eliminated the sidepods and probably migrating to the engine cover (no renderings showing this region have been released so far, so we will have to wait for the car’s debut to confirm). Additionally, the air ducts for the rear brakes are no longer located at the top (3a), and I believe they have migrated to the side of the car (3b). Finally, a set of louvres (4) have been added to the top of the sidepod, possibly to help vent the radiators and intercoolers needed for the new engine.
In addition to aerodynamics, the D09 received updates to the braking, suspension and halfshafts. With this, the manufacturer hopes to make the D09 a more complete package, and more accessible to gentleman drivers than the D08, which became recognized for its speed on straights but also for its tricky behavior in certain corners and some circuit styles.
Sources:
Duqueine Takes Wraps Off D09 LMP3. Available at: https://www.dailysportscar.com/2024/07/05/duqueine-takes-wraps-off-d09-lmp3.html.
Duqueine D09 : a succession soon on track. Available at: https://en.endurance-info.com/auto/article/112624-duqueine-d09-succession-soon-track.
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