Audi has just revealed more details of the second-generation diesel racing sports car R15 RDI, a new model that incorporates a highly efficient TDI engine, an innovative vehicle electrical system concept plus multiple other next-gen elements that collaborate for astonishing performance.
First of all, the powerplant. The R15 TDI is powered by a V10 TDI unit that produces 600 horsepower, with maximum torque rated at 1,050 Nm. Although the German manufacturer says both the fuel consumption and the CO2 emissions are extremely low, it hasn't released specific details on this matter.
Obviously, aerodynamics play a very important role for such a high-performance car. Audi said the airflow around the through the car was optimized with the help of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) plus a rear wing a high nose.
More importantly, the car is equipped with a lithium-ion battery, similar to those on hybrids, which provides a higher voltage than conventional batteries. Thanks to the new battery system, Audi also installed a brand new headlight assembly based on Audi's LED technology for road cars. At the Le Mans, Audi will compete for the first time with a low beam unit comprised entirely of light emitting diodes, the company said in a statement.
“The R15 TDI has many detailed technical solutions never seen before on a sports prototype,” explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. “To a certain extent we followed entirely new routes. With the R15 TDI we have created the base to be in a position to win also in 2009."
The new Audi R15 TDI is set to make its official debut in the 12-hour race in Sebring, Florida in the United States on march 21.
First of all, the powerplant. The R15 TDI is powered by a V10 TDI unit that produces 600 horsepower, with maximum torque rated at 1,050 Nm. Although the German manufacturer says both the fuel consumption and the CO2 emissions are extremely low, it hasn't released specific details on this matter.
Obviously, aerodynamics play a very important role for such a high-performance car. Audi said the airflow around the through the car was optimized with the help of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) plus a rear wing a high nose.
More importantly, the car is equipped with a lithium-ion battery, similar to those on hybrids, which provides a higher voltage than conventional batteries. Thanks to the new battery system, Audi also installed a brand new headlight assembly based on Audi's LED technology for road cars. At the Le Mans, Audi will compete for the first time with a low beam unit comprised entirely of light emitting diodes, the company said in a statement.
“The R15 TDI has many detailed technical solutions never seen before on a sports prototype,” explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. “To a certain extent we followed entirely new routes. With the R15 TDI we have created the base to be in a position to win also in 2009."
The new Audi R15 TDI is set to make its official debut in the 12-hour race in Sebring, Florida in the United States on march 21.