Audi R18 e-tron quattro

Audi Sport has decided to stage a two-pronged attack on most rounds of this year’s FIA World Endurance Championship, including the Le Mans 24 Hours race.

As well as fielding an evolution of 2011’s diesel-powered LMP1 R18 - now called the R18 ultra in recognition of developments that include a new gearbox and various weight-saving measures - Audi will also be entering an all-wheel drive, diesel-hybrid version.

Audi R18 e-tron quattro LMP1 2012 Front SideAudi R18 ultra LMP1 2012 Front Side

Audi R18 e-tron quattro LMP1 2012 FrontAudi R18 e-tron quattro LMP1 2012 Front Side X-Ray

Known as the R18 e-tron quattro, its 503 bhp (375 kW / 510 PS) V6 diesel engine delivers its power to the rear wheels in the usual way.

But at speeds of over 75 mph (120 km/h), the car’s acceleration can be boosted by electric motors that drive the front wheels. A kinetic energy recovery system, which kicks in under braking, harvests the electricity they need and then stores it in a flywheel accumulator until the extra force is required.

For Le Mans, Audi Sport Team Joest is planning on running four cars in total. Two R18 e-tron quattro entries will be driven by Marcel Fässler / André Lotterer / Benoît Tréluyer and Dindo Capello/ Tom Kristensen / Allan McNish, while the R18 ultras will be in the hands of Timo Bernhard / Romain Dumas / Loïc Duval and Marco Monatomic / Oliver Jarvis / Mike Rockenfeller.

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