Days prior to the prologue of the WEC Paul Ricard, days of presentations. While the Toyota TS050 Hybrid remains an open question, and the Porsche 919 Hybrid has already been allowed to see the test in Paul Ricard, is the time to learn the definitive Audi R18 e-tron quattro, the LMP1 that will compete in the season 2016 for the World of Endurance, as well as in the next edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Despite of this presentation and of the good number of photos that accompany this ‘launch’, what is certain is that Audi Sport continues to conceal more than what is shown on.
The most striking change in relation to the Audi R18 e-tron quattro presented at the end of November is the color scheme. While in this first version all the decoration is based on the combination of the colors red and black, in this version the silver color takes center stage to intertwine with the two tones mentioned above. The result is a vehicle that will appreciate better its aerodynamic lines, where in addition after the first test of the LMP1 you can see some modifications, especially on its front. Audi Sport has modified the flaps around the nose, changing its shape and height.
In this new Audi R18 e-tron quattro can also be seen a new angle of attack on the front wheel and the side pods escorting the passenger compartment. Otherwise, we find ourselves with the usual ‘stickers’ that hide the diffuser of this LMP1 and little or no change in their behind. Even so, and with more secrets than any other thing, Audi Sport boasts a new LMP1 designed almost from scratch, with a new safety cell and an aerodynamic and more aggressive.
More powerful and efficient than its predecessor, this LMP1 keeps the engine turbo V6 of 4.0 liters associated to a sequential shift 7-speeds and the well-known system of all-wheel drive e-tron quattro. Although Audi Sport does not disclose benefits, it is worth remembering that the R18 of 2015 had a power of 558 horsepower and a maximum torque of 850 Nm, figures which in theory outperforms the new model. In any case, this new R18 e-tron quattro is encompassed in the subcategory hybrid of 6 MJ, replacing the flywheel battery to store the energy.
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