Bruno Spengler says that the ByKolles LMP1 machinery he will be racing at this weekend’s Total Six Hours of Spa-Francorchamps is unlike anything he has ever driven.
Spengler will be partnering Oliver James Webb and Tom Dillmann on board the #4 ENSO CLM P1/01 Gibson as the Austrian squad returns to the FIA World Endurance Championship for the first time since last year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans.
The BMW works driver will be making his LMP1 debut in only his second WEC appearance. The French-born Canadian joined BMW Team MTEK at the 1000 Miles of Sebring in 2019, but has never raced in prototypes before.
“For me, it’s a big challenge and that’s what I’m looking forward to the most,” said Spengler. “The LMP1 car is totally different compared to what I’m used to – it’s really awesome!
“Now I just need to get as much experience as I can before Le Mans in September.”
“The biggest challenge for me was getting to grips with the downforce. The car is light and very fast, and I need to learn how to manage the corner speeds better.
“DTM cars also have a lot of downforce but not a lot of mechanical grip, which for me is a noticeable difference. I also need to work on adapting my corner speed and braking points.”
Spengler is using the six-hour enduro at Spa to prepare for his debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in September. As part of his preparations, he recently completed a test day with ByKolles at Paul Ricard.
“The test went well generally, we had a couple of issues here and there but for me it was all about learning the car,” the 36-year-old explained. “I did around 90 laps which was a good start but I definitely need some more time in the cockpit.
“I was learning fast, but like I said, I need to adapt my driving style to suit the LMP1.
“Spa will be key for me to drive as much as possible before Le Mans comes round. Overall, the test was super interesting – it’s cool to keep learning and trying new machinery.”
“For me, getting the opportunity to race at Le Mans will be amazing and I am really looking forward to it. I’ve already done 24 hour races at Daytona, Spa and Nurburgring but 24 Hours of Le Mans has always been very high on my bucket list so I am super happy to get this opportunity.
In terms of how I will prepare, I’ve got a busy schedule with BMW so that will help me on the racing front and of course I have a good simulator at home. During lockdown, I spent many, many hours on it.
“Obviously I have the mandatory sim session ahead of the race itself and Spa will also be great training in order for me to get more laps under my belt. I’ll try to be as ready as I can!”
