Audi has unveiled on Friday its new A5 DTM model set to replace the highly successful, four times champion, A4 coupe.
The A5 DTM car is an indicator of the look the new touring car may have. The internally called R17 is currently being built up at Audi Sport in Ingolstadt. It will be unveiled at the International Motor Show, in Frankfurt.
The 2012 DTM cars will feature larger rear wing and reduced aerodynamics components. In addition, the fuel tank will be integrated into the carbon fiber monocoque to "reduce the fire hazard in case of a side impact crash."
The new technical regulations include improved safety components on the cars. Audi worked in close partnership with BMW and Mercedes-Benz to "bring up the safety in the DTM [...] to the highest possible level."
As stated in the press release: "Like all new DTM cars, the new Audi A5 DTM has a high-strength carbon-fiber monocoque that is combined with a steel tube cage.
"The sidewalls of the vehicles feature a hybrid design with a carbon, Zylon and Rohacell construction that is structurally reinforced by pegs.
"In case of a side impact the walls have to be able to withstand a static load that is about four times higher than before. The requirements for the front and rear crash absorbers have been increased as well."
Meanwhile Audi confirmed that its V8 engine will be virtually unchanged on its new race car and so will be its six-speed transmission.
The A5 DTM car is an indicator of the look the new touring car may have. The internally called R17 is currently being built up at Audi Sport in Ingolstadt. It will be unveiled at the International Motor Show, in Frankfurt.
The 2012 DTM cars will feature larger rear wing and reduced aerodynamics components. In addition, the fuel tank will be integrated into the carbon fiber monocoque to "reduce the fire hazard in case of a side impact crash."
The new technical regulations include improved safety components on the cars. Audi worked in close partnership with BMW and Mercedes-Benz to "bring up the safety in the DTM [...] to the highest possible level."
As stated in the press release: "Like all new DTM cars, the new Audi A5 DTM has a high-strength carbon-fiber monocoque that is combined with a steel tube cage.
"The sidewalls of the vehicles feature a hybrid design with a carbon, Zylon and Rohacell construction that is structurally reinforced by pegs.
"In case of a side impact the walls have to be able to withstand a static load that is about four times higher than before. The requirements for the front and rear crash absorbers have been increased as well."
Meanwhile Audi confirmed that its V8 engine will be virtually unchanged on its new race car and so will be its six-speed transmission.