Audi’s R8 LMS GT3 race car has been given a makeover, which is said to make it even more specifically tailored to the requirements of private customer teams.
Pricing in Europe starts at 429 000 euros (R7,4 million), and for that clients get a fully prepped race car powered by a mid-mounted 5,2-litre V10 motor that can be tuned to produce up to 430 kW and 550 N.m.
The Audi Sport customer racing division says it has optimised the R8 LMS for better driveability in five areas: engine characteristics, aerodynamics, chassis, traction control and climate control. Audi will finish testing the second evolution package before the end of this year so that clients can race it from 2022.
“The opinion of our customers remains decisive. The new evolution stage meets their needs even more,” says Audi Sport customer racing head Chris Reinke.
According to Reinke, the innovations improve driveability and allow drivers without a professional background in particular to make better use of the power potential and torque curve for consistent lap times.
Furthermore, the chassis features a new shock absorber solution that is said to make it easier for the teams to set the car up. The upgraded traction control also makes it easier for teams to set the car up to suit individual needs and different tyre characteristics.
“With the first evolution of 2019, we have already embarked on a path that focuses more strongly on the customer teams and the wishes from amateur sport,” Reinke added. “We have now maintained this direction with many new ideas. Whether it’s engine characteristics, interior climate control, chassis, or traction control, we have consistently implemented the wishes that our globally active teams have brought to us.”
