Colin Kolles talks about his Hypercar project

What can you tell us about this car?

We are a small manufacturer, which is why we must stand out by offering a product that is almost unique in its kind. Our idea was to build a car that could be driven on the road and on the track.

The only other brand to offer this is Porsche with its 911 GT2 RS Clubsport in particular. This is why we had to wait for the regulations to be ratified since it is from this car (Le Mans Hypercar. Editor's note) that the road model and its penchant for Track Days will be derived, which I hope to present the next year.

What about the engine?

Since our last conversation, the regulations have changed once again. Now, I can put in the engine I wanted (the Gibson V8 which equips the Enso CLM P1/01. Editor’s note). On the production car, it will be coupled with a hybrid engine to reach 1000 hp.

Should we understand that there will not be any on the racing version?

No, for reasons of efficiency, costs and regulation. Our engine delivers 700 hp, and the initial plan was to add a hybrid system. But the power has been revised downwards (500 kW, around 670 hp. Editor’s note). The Hybrid would give us an advantage when exiting corners and in the rain, but we would then be penalized in terms of weight.

How many cars do you intend to produce?

Everything will depend on demand, but no more than 100 is a certainty. I want it to remain an exclusive model.

Is everything done in-house at Kodewa in Greeding, Germany?

Everything is designed by us, but certain parts are built by subcontractors, like the monocoque.

Is this your company’s biggest project?

I don't think like that. I have a specific plan in mind. Some people ask me why I persist in doing LM P1 with an obsolete car. I did it to allow us to learn, so that we understand the requirements of a high performance car before making our Hypercar. And look, we are still here, while some have left and others have canceled their coming. And outside of Toyota, we are the only ones today, in LM P1, to design our own car.

When do you hope to be able to run the car?

In February, maybe earlier. We are waiting for the first monohull.

Enough to be ready for 1000 Miles of Sebring ?

I only register if I agree with what is proposed. And honestly, when you know the Sebring track, I'm not sure it's the most suitable for starting a car in competition. It doesn't make sense, you're salvaging a wreck.

Will the car be available for sale?

Obviously, but we will also hire some ourselves.