Here's a short video of the launch of the new Le Mans car produced by German manufacturer Audi, the stunning turbo diesel R18.
Significantly smaller engines than those used before will be prescribed at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2011 as the rule makers aim to achieve a substantial reduction of engine power.
By opting for a 3.7-liter V6 TDI unit, Audi retains the diesel concept that saw its first victorious fielding in 2006.
The development of the new Audi R18 started in mid 2009. The V6 TDI engine has been running on the dynamometers since the summer of 2010.
The R18, with Allan McNish at the wheel, completed its first test on a racetrack at the end of November.
2011 Audi R18 motorsport programme:
Apr 24 Test day, Le Mans (F)
May 08 Spa-Francorchamps (B) 6 Hours
Jun 11/12 Le Mans (F) 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
Significantly smaller engines than those used before will be prescribed at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2011 as the rule makers aim to achieve a substantial reduction of engine power.
By opting for a 3.7-liter V6 TDI unit, Audi retains the diesel concept that saw its first victorious fielding in 2006.
The development of the new Audi R18 started in mid 2009. The V6 TDI engine has been running on the dynamometers since the summer of 2010.
The R18, with Allan McNish at the wheel, completed its first test on a racetrack at the end of November.
2011 Audi R18 motorsport programme:
Apr 24 Test day, Le Mans (F)
May 08 Spa-Francorchamps (B) 6 Hours
Jun 11/12 Le Mans (F) 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