2012 Audi R8 LMS Ultra

Audi has launched the R8 LMS Ultra, a race car that’ll be available to customer teams from March 2012.

Audi R8 LMS Ultra 2012 Front Side

An evolution of the R8 LMS GT3, the Ultra has been developed by quattro GmbH and incorporates numerous changes.

In the engine bay, the 562 bhp (419 kW / 570 PS) 5.2 litre V10 gets a new exhaust system that allows for improved low-range torque, and there are larger engine oil and transmission fluid coolers. Air supply has also been improved thanks to bigger intakes in the R8’s side blades.

Tweaks to the bodywork include a broader front bonnet section that features extra vents, while the rear wing is wider than before and has larger end plates to maximise aerodynamic downforce. In the interests of reducing weight, the doors are now constructed from carbon fibre reinforced plastic, and they incorporate a new high-energy absorbing crash foam.

Wider 12-inch front wheels are fitted, and these benefit from better brake cooling and improved tyres. Suspension modifications are limited to enhanced, lighter Bilstein dampers and uniball joints for the transverse control arm mounts.

The 2012 Audi R8 LMS Ultra is priced at €329,900 (plus VAT), an amount that equates to around £281,900 or US$444,100 at current exchange rates.

Owners of existing cars will be able to get them updated to full Ultra spec or, for any teams considering just a partial upgrade, Audi is working on obtaining individual homologation for each new aerodynamic component.

Related posts:
2012 Porsche 911 GT3 RSR
Audi unveils new A5 DTM
Audi R8 V8 Limited Edition
Aston Martin Vantage GT3

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