Audi unleashes racing R8
2010-03-09 12:49
Audi’s GT3 customer racing programme gathers steam with the first deliveries of its R8 LMS.
About 20 of these fire breathers are expected to have been handed over by the middle of April, useful kitr, especially with the heady GT3 calendar for 2010 including two 24-hour races and a host of other meets.
The 2010 version of the R8 LMS is regarded as an “evolution version” of the previous car, adding several technical improvements over last year’s model.
However, 2009-spec cars have the option of an update kit that will allow them to continue running competitively in the new season.
Head of Audi Motorsport, Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich, explains.
"All the experience we gathered last season with the help of our partners has been fed into the evolution-version. We’re convinced that we’re handing over a reliable and easy to handle vehicle to our customers that embodies the high quality standards of the Audi brand."
Yet, even with a focus on “service life and maintenance-friendliness”, changes to this R8 remain extensive.
Certain chassis and suspension parts have been revised. The engine’s cooling system has a larger capacity to allow the car to run at higher ambient temperatures.
Electronics and exhaust optimised for racing, and a new six-speed racing transmission that is especially easy to maintain and doesn’t need to be dismantled for inspection.
Keen racers wanting to get their hands on a race-ready will have to hang tight until next year, though. Audi says all its production for 2010 have been sold. Cars for the 2011 season will go on sale from the end of this year.
