Hertz Team JOTA has successfully completed its first full-scale test with the Cadillac V-Series.R, marking a huge milestone in its transition to a factory team for 2025 FIA WEC.
The three-day test took place at the renowned Circuit Paul Ricard, where all six drivers slated for the upcoming World Endurance Championship season had the opportunity to experience the newly constructed LMDh prototype.
The test was a crucial step for Hertz Team JOTA as it prepares to field two hypercars in the upcoming season following the announcement of the team’s transition from a privateer operation to a factory-backed racing squad – Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA.
Previously, the British outfit operated under a customer program with Porsche but has now secured a factory deal that allows it to leverage Cadillac’s extensive resources and technical expertise.
The drivers participating in the pivotal test at Circuit Paul Ricard included Earl Bamber, Sebastien Bourdais, Jenson Button, Alex Lynn, Norman Nato, and Will Stevens. Each driver brought a wealth of experience and insight to the test, contributing to the development of the Cadillac V-Series.R.
While the car had undergone preliminary shakedown runs at a smaller, undisclosed circuit prior to this event, the Paul Ricard outing was its first substantial performance evaluation with Hertz Team JOTA.
Team manager Bob Friend expressed optimism about the initial test results, highlighting the importance of building relationships among the team members and understanding the car’s dynamics.
“I think it’s been a good first test and the relationship with Cadillac and GM and Dallara has been really well,” Friend told Sportscar365. “We’re learning each other’s’ language and getting over that first day at school stuff.
“The driver feedback sounds like it relates well to where the car is right now. It’s a new language of a car so there are a lot of things to learn. The reason we brought so many people to this test is so we learn it quickly and when we go to the next test it’s all muscle memory and we’ll get further down the road.
“This test, from my point of view, is about relationships and car understanding and how to put a time together with that car. The next step is two cars running at the same time for at least a bit, making sure that we don’t step on each other’s toes.”
Earl Bamber echoed these sentiments, stating that JOTA’s involvement brings a fresh energy to the Cadillac project. He emphasized the team’s extensive knowledge and experience in racing, which he believes will be instrumental in achieving success with the new vehicle.
“I think JOTA is bringing a new energy to the Cadillac project,“ he said. “They have a lot of knowledge. They know how to win races so it’s great to see.
“We’d like another ten days of testing before we get to 2025 FIA WEC Prologue in Qatar, but we’re limited, so this is the first big block to gain information to then head over into the short Christmas break, do our homework and go to the next test.”
The transition to Cadillac marks a new chapter for Hertz Team JOTA, which has established itself as one of the most successful teams in recent endurance racing history.
The team has previously achieved remarkable success in LMP2 competition, including ten podium finishes at Le Mans and a historic overall victory for a private team in Hypercar at Spa-Francorchamps earlier this year.
The legacy of excellence coupled with the new partnership with Cadillac positions Hertz Team JOTA well as it seeks to create new milestones in endurance racing history.
The Cadillac V-Series.R itself is a state-of-the-art hypercar designed specifically for endurance racing. It features a purpose-built 5.5L DOHC V8 engine and incorporates advanced hybrid technology, making it one of the most competitive vehicles in its class.
The car’s design reflects key elements from the American automaker’s production cars, showcasing both performance capabilities and brand identity.
Looking ahead, Hertz Team JOTA plans to conduct additional testing before the 2025 FIA WEC Prologue in Qatar. This will be crucial for fine-tuning their strategies and ensuring that both cars are fully prepared for competitive racing.
