After 46 years, the Apple logo will appear on a Porsche race car once more. The Porsche 963 LMDh, set to compete in the 2026 24 Hours of Le Mans, will carry the iconic emblem as a tribute to the historic partnership between the two brands.
In a move that has thrilled car and tech enthusiasts alike, Porsche has announced the return of the Apple logo to its race cars for the first time since 1980. The car bearing the emblem is the Porsche 963 LMDh, which will compete in the legendary 2026 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Why is the Apple logo returning to Porsche now?
The return celebrates the 46th anniversary of the first collaboration between the two companies, when Porsche used the Apple logo on the 935 K3 at the 1980 Le Mans race. According to a report from Carscoops, the gesture aims to honor the historic partnership between the two pioneering brands.
What is the Porsche 963?
The Porsche 963 is an LMDh hypercar race car that combines an internal combustion engine with a hybrid system. It is designed for the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) and the IMSA SportsCar Championship in North America. With over 670 horsepower, it is the successor to the legendary 919 Hybrid.
What are the specs of the Porsche 963?
- Engine: 4.6L twin-turbo V8
- Hybrid system: 50 kW electric motor
- Total power: Approximately 680 hp
- Weight: 1,030 kg
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic
When did Apple and Porsche first collaborate?
The first appearance of the Apple logo on a Porsche dates back to 1980, when Apple sponsored the Porsche 935 K3 that won Le Mans that year. The logo at the time was the rainbow-colored Apple, different from today’s monochrome design. The partnership lasted only a few years before ending.
What does this collaboration mean for both brands?
For Apple, this appearance is an opportunity to reinforce its brand association with engineering excellence and speed, especially as the company increases its focus on autonomous driving technology. For Porsche, Apple represents innovation and technological advancement, enhancing its image as a forward-thinking brand.
When will the logo appear in the race?
The Porsche 963 adorned with the Apple logo will compete in the 2026 24 Hours of Le Mans, scheduled for June of next year. The car is expected to attract significant media attention during the event.
How much does the Porsche 963 cost?
The Porsche 963 is not a production car for sale to the public; it is a race car built for teams competing in endurance championships. Each car is estimated to cost around €2.5 million (approximately SAR 10 million), which includes technical support and spare parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the last time the Apple logo appeared on a Porsche?
The last appearance was in 1980 on the Porsche 935 K3, which won the 24 Hours of Le Mans that year.
Will the Porsche 963 be sold to the public?
No, the Porsche 963 is a race car built exclusively for teams competing in endurance championships. It is not available for public sale.
What is the 24 Hours of Le Mans?
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is an annual endurance race held in France. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious automobile races in the world, lasting 24 hours.
Sources
- Carscoops — Apple’s Logo Is Going Back On A Porsche For The First Time In 46 Years
