The LMP2 concept dates to the earliest years of the ACO's Le Mans Prototype framework in the late 1990s, when prototype classes were divided between large-displacement custom-engined LMP1 cars and smaller, production-engine-based LMP2 machines. The class went through several restructurings over the following two decades alongside shifts in the broader endurance racing landscape.
A definitive modern form emerged in 2017 when the FIA introduced a frozen set of LMP2 regulations intended to constrain costs by mandating a common engine supplier and a closed pool of approved chassis constructors. Gibson Technology was designated as the exclusive engine supplier, providing a four-litre normally-aspirated V8. Four chassis manufacturers — Dallara, Onroak Automotive (trading as Ligier), Oreca, and the Riley Tech/Multimatic joint venture — were selected as the sole approved constructors, and all LMP2 cars were required to use closed-cockpit designs. The regulations were frozen through 2020 and extended further as the pandemic and the broader endurance racing transition to Hypercar disrupted planning timelines.
Under the frozen 2017-era rules, LMP2 cars use the Gibson GK428 four-litre V8 producing approximately 420 kW (565 hp) in standard trim. The Oreca 07, built by the French constructor Oreca, became the dominant chassis platform chosen by the large majority of teams; the other approved constructors maintained smaller customer bases.
Performance adjustments were made from the 2021 season onward to ensure an adequate lap time gap between LMP2 and the newly introduced Le Mans Hypercar class. The Gibson engine's output was reduced and the minimum weight was increased by 20 kg to 950 kg. A mandatory single aero kit was also introduced for WEC competition, with LMP2 teams in the European Le Mans Series retaining the right to run different aerodynamic specifications.
New LMP2 regulations targeting the 2028 season are in development, with Gibson confirmed to continue as the engine supplier.
LMP2 occupies a structural role as the professional-privateer class in major endurance racing. At the 24 Hours of Le Mans, additional LMP2 invitations are extended beyond full-season WEC entries to fill out the grid, and the class is further subdivided into Pro and Pro-Am categories at Le Mans, with Pro-Am entries required to include a bronze-rated driver in their line-up.
The class has produced a consistent level of competition, with the Oreca 07 platform's near-universal adoption among leading teams contributing to closely contested grids where driver quality and team strategy are decisive factors. Notable LMP2 victories at Le Mans include the Inter Europol Competition Oreca 07 winning the 2025 24 Hours of Le Mans LMP2 class, driven by Nick Yelloly, Jakub Smiechowski, and Tom Dillmann.
LMP2 also serves an important role as a stepping stone, offering drivers and teams experience in prototype endurance racing at international level before potential progression to full Hypercar programmes. The relatively accessible cost structure compared to the top class — enabled by the frozen regulations and shared engine supply — has helped maintain a healthy privateer ecosystem in WEC and ELMS competition.