“We’re very pleased with the performance of the Audi R18 at our first outing at Sebring. We opted for this race track because it makes high demands on the mechanical systems of our vehicles. The temperatures are better than in Europe right now, plus the dry weather provides us with assurance that we’re able to conduct the endurance runs as planned. On a wet track the loads would be lower and the test results therefore less conclusive,” said Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich.
The nine Audi “factory” drivers took took turns at the wheel of the car so that all of them could get a feel of the three cars.
The Sebring track will also be the host of a 12-hour endurance race, scheduled to take place in March. In order to prepare for the event, the basic setup for the Audi R15 “plus plus” that will be fielded there has already been worked out.
The new R18 features a closed carbon fiber monocoque coupe specially developed for Le Mans, a 3.7-liter V6 TDI engine and all-LED headlights, another first for endurance racing. The company says the next generation headlights will also be prepared for future use in production vehicles.
The new prototype will do its first laps on the Le Mans circuit during the official test day on April 24, to gather data ahead of the race on June 11 and 12, where the company is planning to enter by Audi Sport Team Joest.
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