Lola LMP customers RML and AD Group have announced the signing of a new partnership with Honda Performance Development, Inc (HPD), for the supply of engines for the team's LMP sports prototype programme in 2010. The agreement will see the team's Lola B08/80 powered by the HPD LM-V8 engine, making this the first Lola coupé to benefit from the proven normally-aspirated 3.4 litre unit. “HPD are pleased to have been selected as RML’s engine supplier for 2010,” said Stephen Eriksen, Technical Director of Honda Performance Development. “RML is a veteran team with a proven track record of success and we look forward to our LM-V8 engine continuing to set records for performance and reliability. We have many hours of durability testing already under our belts and still more to go before the season starts, however all indications point to us being in a very good position to succeed in the European arena.”

"We are delighted to be working with a new engine manufacturer in Honda Performance Development," said Ray Mallock, Founder and Chief Executive of Ray Mallock Limited (RML). "RML's greatest achievements have come as the result of working closely with some of the world's leading engine manufacturers. This is our first opportunity to develop a relationship with HPD; a company with a tremendous track record for designing superbly engineered, powerful and reliable race engines. Even in the very short period that we've been working together it has already become obvious that HPD understands exactly what it takes to win at the highest level, and that gives us cause to look towards the coming season with considerable optimism and confidence."

The team retains the same Lola B08/80 chassis that secured second in LMP2 at Silverstone in the final Le Mans Series race of 2009. The swift installation of the LM-V8 has been made possible with the support and co-operation of Lola and HPD Inc, and will result in a shakedown test within the next fortnight.

All pictures All pictures RML AD Group.