Cadillac’s DPi program has been confirmed through the end of the 2020 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season, with no formal decision made on whether it will commit to the so-called DPi 2022 regulations.

The two-time Prototype title-winning manufacturer, however, has been “encouraged” by the direction IMSA is heading, according to GM racing director Mark Kent.

Having been one of the three DPi manufacturers involved in the top prototype class since its launch in 2017, Kent confirmed that Cadillac’s current commitment brings them one year short of the lifespan of the current platform.

A total of six Cadillac DPi-V.Rs took part in the majority of the WeatherTech Championship season.

“We will look to run the Cadillacs for sure next year and then we’ll see what 2021 holds,” Kent told Sportscar365.

Kent, however, indicated that its presence will likely continue should it be able to “compete” on a “level playing field” in the class.

“As long as we can do that, we’re very happy with the DPi program,” he said. “It’s a great platform for Cadillac to demonstrate their product.

“It’s a great opportunity for them to be at the race track in front of their customer base. It’s worked out very well for Cadillac.

“But you can only do it if you can win.”

Kent said initial discussions on DPi 2022 have been heading in a positive direction.

“As a longtime participant in the series, we want to make sure that wherever it leads, we have some idea of where it’s going,” he said.

“We enjoy working with IMSA. The path they’re on is exciting. We have not made any commitments to doing a DPi 2.0 but we’re encouraged by the direction we’re going.”

Kent: GM Not Headed Down Hybrid Path

With GM set to concentrate on all-electric vehicles in its production car roadmap, and having recently eliminated several hybrid models in its lineup, Kent said they have no specific preference on IMSA’s planned approach to hybrid technology.

“We are going all-electric,” Kent said. “We’re not headed down a hybrid path.

“We’re not pushing for any specific hybrid system.

“If it’s good for the series, if it will help the series, then we’ll support it. But our position has been that it’s got to be a spec system that we don’t get into a spending war on technology on hybridization.

“What is the right system and does it make sense?

“IMSA’s doing their due diligence on what’s possible and we look forward to what they come back with and see if it’s something we can support.”