Reflecting on the Development of Ligier’s New Generation LMP3: The Ligier JS P325
As the 2024 season draws to a close, Ligier Automotive is preparing to write a new chapter in the history of its LMP3 prototypes with the Ligier JS P325, the French manufacturer's third-generation LMP3. Unveiled at the 2024 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Ligier JS P325 will make its competitive debut in 2025 in the European Le Mans Series (ELMS) and the Michelin Le Mans Cup (MLMC) before being gradually introduced to other Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO)-sanctioned championships in 2026.
To be ready for this challenge, the Ligier JS P325 has undergone an intensive development program since its first laps in June 2024. Over 15 testing days on various circuits, the car has covered more than 7,500 kilometers, pushing its new engine and cooling system to the limit.
With another series of development tests scheduled for 2025, here's a look back at the tests undergone so far.
Development Led by Florent Gouin and Olivier Pla
At the head of this program, on the technical and performance side, in support of Ligier Automotive's technical managers and engineers, was Florent Gouin, Senior Development Track Engineer. On the track, the manufacturer relied on the expertise of Olivier Pla, a long-time Ligier driver. Over the years, Pla has contributed to the development of numerous Ligier prototypes, including the Ligier JS P2, JS P217, JS PX, and the two previous generations of LMP3 cars: the Ligier JS P3 and JS P320. His extensive experience and deep understanding of Ligier models made him a key player in ensuring the JS P325 is both high-performing and reliable.
“From the moment we put the car on the track in Barcelona, we were able to start accumulating miles and testing various scenarios,” Pla explained. “The Barcelona circuit is a true proving ground for cars, which allowed us to kick off the development of the JS P325 on a very positive note.”
Pla also highlighted the solid foundation of the new JS P325: “The Ligier JS P320 is already a very refined car, so the JS P325 has a strong baseline to build on.”
One of the main challenges during development was adapting the car to its new engine, which required technical adjustments. “With the new engine, the car's balance is different. We worked extensively on setups to rebalance the car. We also collaborated closely with Oreca, particularly on upshift and downshift settings.”
Pla noted another significant improvement: “The Ligier JS P325 is very responsive to setup changes. From one circuit to another, we were able to perform well quickly, even before fine-tuning the setup for specific track characteristics. This is extremely promising for its competitive debut.”
A Well-Born Car
The development program continued on several renowned European circuits. “Over the summer, we were practically testing every week. In addition to Magny-Cours, we tested at several other tracks: Barcelona (6 days), Motorland (2 days), and Le Castellet (2 days),” Pla detailed.
Florent Gouin emphasized the positive impact of technical improvements: “The evolution of the cooling system for the new engine significantly improved the car's aerodynamic efficiency. We achieved excellent results in terms of downforce and drag and optimized the car to accommodate the new weight and engine. It's a significant step forward compared to the previous generation.”
These tests allowed the team to refine setups and optimize the car. “With all the mileage we've covered this summer, we've reached an excellent level of preparation,” Pla concluded with satisfaction.
Valuable Support from Gillian Henrion
To perfect the car, Olivier Pla was supported by Gillian Henrion, the 2022 Ligier European Series Champion and 2023 Michelin Le Mans Cup Champion in a Ligier JS P320. Henrion, who since then finished third in the LMP3 standings of the 2024 European Le Mans Series with the Ligier JS P320 #8 from Team Virage, joined the development team for two days of testing at Le Castellet and two days at Portimão. With his experience in the Ligier JS P320, Henrion provided valuable insights that further refined the car's setup.
“It was a great opportunity to have Gillian at Le Castellet,” said Olivier Pla. “He knows the circuit well and has extensive experience with the Ligier JS P320. Despite it being his first time participating in such an exercise, he provided excellent feedback to the team.”
“Incorporating another driver's perspective into our development program was insightful,” added Florent Gouin. “It confirmed that the baseline we've developed is adaptable to all drivers.”
Henrion expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “I've always wanted to be involved in the development of a car. Doing so with Ligier Automotive for their new LMP3, following two highly successful generations, is an honor.”
During testing, Henrion quickly adapted to the Ligier JS P325: “From the moment I got in the car, I felt comfortable. It has more grip, which will appeal to gentleman drivers. It's easy to handle, allowing drivers to quickly push its limits.”
Henrion also tested the car in varying weather conditions: “At Le Castellet, we drove in both dry and wet conditions. The car inspires even more confidence than the Ligier JS P320.”
Finally, Henrion noted the progress made compared to the previous generation: “The JS P325 represents a new milestone. It's an incredible car, and I believe it has enormous potential to dominate on the track in the coming years.”
Successful Testing in Portimão
Following the ELMS and MLMC finales, where Ligier teams were crowned in the LMP3 category, the Ligier JS P325 returned to the track for two intensive testing days at the Portimão circuit. The car ran almost non-stop, with 21 drivers testing it, including 16 on the first day alone.
On the second day, testing focused primarily on further developing the car, with Gillian Henrion at the wheel, adding another circuit to the Ligier JS P325's development program.
These tests once again demonstrated the Ligier JS P325's reliability. They also allowed drivers, both experienced and novice, to evaluate the results of several months of development. Their smiles and unanimous enthusiasm confirmed that the new Ligier JS P325 is ready to take on the challenges of upcoming seasons.
A Competitive Debut in ACO Championships in 2025
The Ligier JS P325 will make its competitive debut in 2025 in the ELMS, MLMC, and Road to Le Mans. It will gradually be integrated into other ACO-sanctioned championships starting in 2026.
A complementary series of development tests is planned for 2025 before the season kicks off.
CLICK HERE to have more information on the Ligier JS P325, the third generation of Ligier LMP3.
Photo credit: Bernardo Baluganti