Hexis, manufacturer of self-adhesive vinyl films, and Oreca, the motor racing company, are entering a technical partnership with the aim of further improving the performance of the LMP1 race car (Le Mans Prototype 1). The vehicle body panels will be covered in vinyl film instead of paint for a noticeable weight reduction thus achieving fuel savings and faster laps. Several tests were carried out in 2008 and 2009 with the results pointing in that direction.
For this type of application Hexis supplies ultra-thin adhesive coated vinyl films. As the films are extremely conformable and stretchable they can be applied over curved surfaces and thus completely wrap the vehicle. The Hexis training department provides technical assistance with the application of the films onto the vehicles.
Oreca, set up in 1972, is a race car designer and constructor based in France. 2009 is their second year of participation in the Le Mans 24 Hours.
Hexis manufactures a full line of graphic vinyl and digital printing media used for sign making and vehicle markings. The company is based in Frontignan, near Montpellier, France with subsidiaries in Germany, Italy and the United States and with affiliate Hexis companies in the Netherlands, Switzerland and the UK. The group exports some 40% of its turnover to over 40 countries worldwide, while enjoying sales of EUR 37.6 million in 2008.
