News: Audi R18 unveiled

Nervous Peugeout? (Photo: Audi Motorsport)

    Audi has unveiled their replacement to the Audi R15+, with their latest Le Mans Prototype, the R18 and for the first time since the Audi R8C, in 1999, Audi will race a closed cockpit LMP.

    The R18 will be powered by a 3.7-liter V6 TDI with a possible hybrid system integrated into the power plant for 2012. The V6 engine has been worked on since early summer, with the car completing its first shake down at the end of November with Scottish ace, Allan McNish behind the wheel.

Photo: Audi Motorsport

    Audi was able to incorporate lessons learned from their A4 DTM cars, such as a heated windshield, and were able to drastically cut the development period to perfect these components. Obviously the previous Audi LMPs played a crucial role as well.

LED tailights remain on the trailing edge of the wing endplates (Audi Motorsport)

  One of the interesting features on the R18 is use of identical wheel sizes for better weight distribution. With the large front wheel arches, one has to wonder if Audi has possibly gone down a similar trail Acura did in 2009, with the same sized tires on all four corners to improve cornering speeds. We'll keep you posted on that.....

*Edit* Yep, 4 rear tires on all four corners

LED running lights form the number 1 (Audi Motorsport)

  

Audi Motorsport Events in 2011

Audi R15 TDI

Mar 19 Sebring 12 Hours (USA)

Audi R18

Apr 24 Test day, Le Mans
May 08 Spa-Francorchamps (B) 6 Hours
Jun 11/12 Le Mans 24 Hours
Jul 03 Imola (I) 6 Hours
Sep 11 Silverstone (GB) 6 Hours
Oct 01 Petit Le Mans, Road Atlanta (USA)
Nov 12 China (CN) 6 Hours