The
2016 version of the Audi R18 e-tron Quattro was in fact
revealed a long time ago, before the end of the last year, but
outside of the car itself, no other details were clear, at least
until this Tuesday (22) when the version that will race in the FIA
World Endurance Championship was revealed with technical details.
Audi
saw the new season and the updated regulations as an opportunity to
revamp its LMP1 racer, as the R18 e-tron Quattro now features
more power, going over the 1000 horsepower figure, thanks to the
trusted 4.0-liter turbocharged V6 diesel engine combined with a new
energy recovery system that uses a battery that replaces the
Williams-built flywheel that was the foundation of Audi's hybrid
technology in the LMP1 class. Normally seen as the most conservative
in the matter of hybrid subclass, The new car goes to the 6MJ
subclass, a bit closer to what's expected by Porsche and Toyota.
The
aerodynamics and overall shape of the car changed drastically even if
compared to the 2015 season car, which is the closest to this one,
and gave to the car a thinner appearance. A higher front end, revised
sides that now see the wing mirrors become more incorporated into the
body, just like the low downforce kit of the 2015 car that Audi used
at Spa-Francorchamps, Le Mans and some other races of the FIA WEC.
Another
thing that changes with the new car is the competition paint scheme they will
use this season. Audi normally would go to a white base with red,
gray and black details, but this year they decided to go with a black
and gray base with lots of details in red, with almost and equal
proportion between the three colors.
The
new machine in its proper FIA WEC suit will be in action at the end
of the month in the Prologue at the Circuit Paul Ricard.
PHOTOS: Audi Sport
Comments
Post a Comment
Do you have an opinion? Feel free to comment.