The R15 TDI is the successor to the race-winning R10 TDI and is the linchpin of Audi's quest to overtake Ferrari and Porsche in all-time Le Mans victories. Although details on the new LMP1 racing car won't be revealed until just before its debut at Sebring in late March, Audi said the R15 TDI will feature a smaller, lighter and more efficient turbodiesel engine than its predecessor and will be a roadster, but otherwise is "significantly different" from the R10 TDI.
Audi Sport Team Joest plans to field three R15 TDI prototypes at Le Mans in 2009.
For individual customers, the Audi R8 LMS has been developed specifically for GT3 racing. The car is powered by a V10 engine that develops 500-plus horsepower and will be available starting next fall at $330,000 plus VAT.
Audi said it will build up to eight customer cars to compete in various European events, including the 24-hour endurance race at the Nürburgring, but will not enter a factory car. It has retained several seasoned drivers, including Christian Abt of tuner firm Abt Sportsline, to help develop and test the new car.
Inside Line says: With a win at Le Mans in 2009, Audi could match Ferrari's total of nine victories in the famed endurance race. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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