Ford's prototype for the FIA WEC Hypercar class has completed its first extended test at Paul Ricard. Following an initial shakedown and three days of running, the car covered more than 1,000 km, beginning the main development phase ahead of its planned 2027 competition debut.
It was the car's first sustained running since its 5.4-liter Coyote-based V8 was fired up at ORECA in July. Ford describes the test as the point where months of dyno and simulator preparation turned into a regular track-development program. That program is scheduled to span three continents over the coming months.
Logan Sargeant, Matt Campbell, Tom Blomqvist and Mike Rockenfeller all drove at Paul Ricard. Sebastian Priaulx and Nick Yelloly were also present, completing the six-driver group attached to the project. Ford acknowledged minor early-development issues but described the overall test as smooth.
Next steps include simulator work in North Carolina and circuit tests at Portimão, Silverstone, Monza, Imola and Aragón. The program is then due to move to the United States, with running planned at Circuit of the Americas and Sebring.
Covering more than 1,000 km is not a competitive result, but it is an important reliability and systems milestone for an entirely new prototype. Ford has a relatively short development window to turn a running test car into a package capable of contesting a full WEC season and the top class at Le Mans.