The gas is always greener on the other side...

The LMP1 prototype class will in future be open to a range of alternative fuels in the Le Mans 24 Hours.

The new-for-2014 rules are based on energy consumption, but allow only petrol- or diesel-powered cars. The Automobile Club de l’Ouest and the FIA, which set the rules for Le Mans and the World Endurance Championship, have stated that they will open up the category to other fuel sources.

ACO sporting manager Vincent Beaumesnil said: “We are very open to new fuels, but it is too soon to have electric and hydrogen cars racing against petrol and diesel cars. But, in the future, if a manufacturer comes with, say, bio-ethanol we would be happy to accept.”

The coupé-only P1 rules for 2014 were announced during Le Mans week in June. The ACO has safeguarded privateers by creating a non-hybrid class, which will be allowed a larger fuel allocation.

The look of P1 cars will also change. They will become five per cent narrower, with slightly higher cockpits to improve visibility for the driver.