The Ligier JS2 R Takes on Pikes Peak with Bruce Jouanny.
In June 2026, Bruce Jouanny will compete in the 104th edition of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, driving a Ligier JS2 R entered by team RD Limited. For the first-ever appearance of a Ligier GT car in the iconic American hill climb, the French manufacturer will provide technical support alongside the driver and his team.
A First for a Ligier GT at Pikes Peak
Although Ligier Automotive is not directly entering the car, this participation marks an important milestone: the first appearance of a Ligier GT on the slopes of Pikes Peak.
The manufacturer will provide technical support for the preparation and operation of the Ligier JS2 R, working closely with RD Limited, led by Romain Dumas, a record holder of the event.
“Ligier Automotive is delighted to collaborate with Bruce Jouanny and support him in this unique challenge,” said Richard Tur, Chief Technical Officer at Ligier Automotive. “We are providing technical support for the preparation and operation of the Ligier JS2 R alongside Bruce and Team RD Limited.
This is not our first experience at Pikes Peak, but it is an important milestone for us with a Ligier car. We are here to learn in this very specific environment and prepare for the future.”
Proven Experience at Pikes Peak
Ligier Automotive builds on solid Pikes Peak experience through entities integrated into the group since 2018. Tork Engineering has supported manufacturers on three Pikes Peak programs, notably with Dacia. Engine specialist Sodemo has also been involved in these projects.
A Collaboration Built on a Longstanding Relationship
Bruce Jouanny's entry is part of a strong relationship with Ligier Automotive and its President Jacques Nicolet, notably developed through their shared experience at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
“Sharing a car at the 24 Hours of Le Mans creates unbreakable bonds,” said Bruce Jouanny. “Today, it is a tremendous source of pride to take on this challenge with a Ligier and represent the brand at Pikes Peak.”
The Ligier JS2 R Faces the Mountain Challenge
A benchmark on European circuits with more than 130 cars produced and raced, the Ligier JS2 R provides a reliable platform for this project.
To tackle the 12.4 miles and 156 turns leading up to 14,115 feet of elevation, the car features specific adaptations:
- Adapted suspension setup
- Michelin ultra-soft tires
- Short-ratio Sadev gearbox
- Oxygenated fuel for high altitude
Lightened to 1040 kg, the car will compete in the Pikes Peak Open class.
A Structured Preparation Program
Ahead of the event, the program includes:
- Two test days at Pôle Mécanique d'Alès
- Participation in the Col Saint-Pierre hill climb
These key steps will help address the extreme conditions of Pikes Peak.
Looking Ahead to 2027 with the Ligier JS2 RS
This participation is part of a progressive approach for Ligier Automotive, aiming to build on this first experience with the JS2 R.
The project paves the way for a broader ambition: returning to Pikes Peak in 2027 with the Ligier JS2 RS, Ligier's latest carbon monocoque GT model launched in 2025, which will compete this year in GT2 Europe and the Ultimate Cup Series.
A Human and Charitable Challenge
The project also carries a human dimension through Bruce Jouanny's initiative “Objectif 4302,” which aims to support research into COPD, a major respiratory disease.
For more information about the Ligier JS2 R, CLICK HERE.
To discover the Ligier JS2 RS, CLICK HERE.
For more information on Pikes Peak Hill Climbing race, CLICK HERE.
Follow the Pikes Peak journey on Bruce Jouanny's social media channels.