Not wanting to waste a moment, Pilbeam launched the MP98 Virage into the new VdeV UK Endurance Series in its inaugural year, 2008. Racing for 3 to 6 hours, VdeV is an affordable LMP style race, on many of the classic British tracks. Mike Pilbeam used his experience at developing Le Mans Prototypes to tackle the VdeV championship. The Virage utilizes a front splitter and heave spring developed on the MP93 LMP car. Pilbeam have pushed the regulations to the limit to design a quick and stable car, while maintaining its legality. Pilbeam allow the customer to choose a paddle shift option and to define the data system. We are familiar with all data systems, using extensively Pi, Magneti Marelli and Motec, while being distributors for STACK. Neil Brown Engineering became associated with Pilbeam in Touring Cars, and has once again provided an exemplary engine. While we do not restrict the engine type, we do recommend NBE for the Virage. Pilbeam can provide trackside support and consultancy at the race weekends. This normally consists of a Mechanical Engineer and a Data Engineer, to cover all of your concerns. Teams can also benefit from our simulation engineering using ChassisSim. Total Sim carried out an extensive investigation on the aerodynamics of the MP98. The size and shape of wheel arches, radiators, ducting and the location of brake ducts were all investigated. This was the first Pilbeam to have bodywork designed computationally, rather than in the wind tunnel. The results have been fantastic, with the virage generating even more downforce than predicted. As Pilbeam are UK distributors for ChassisSim the Virage was also developed with extensive use of the simulation software. This allowed Pilbeam to simulate the characteristics of the MP98 round tracks before the car even had left the factory! Creator Danny Nowlan continues to consult on the MP98 and its development. The software is used track side to evaluate the aerodynamic loading of the car and the potential setups. ChassisSim is available to customers of VdeV cars with a predefined car model included. Click ChassisSim find out more about this incredible cost-saving software.