Driving & Motorsports

Audi to Pull Out of ALMS for 2009

John Beltz Snyder — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 14:27:45 -0600

Audi announced today that its factory team will not participate in the American Le Mans Series in 2009. The Audi factory team, which has dominated the series since it joined in 2000, will take the opportunity to create a more formidable presence in the European arena, particularly the 24-Hours of Le Mans race, with its newly developed R15 sport prototype (rendering pictured above).

Though some may see this as a symptom of economic difficulties, for Audi motorsport and American race fans, the hand that taketh away also giveth. The Audi R15 sport prototype will premiere at the 12-hour race in Sebring, Florida on March 21, 2009. The company will also make the new R8 LMS available for customer use in the GT3 class. Americans can look forward to a different ALMS, as well as the hope of still seeing Audis driven by the capable hands of non-factory teams.

Scroll down to read the complete press release.

Audi Adjusts its U.S., European Motorsports Activities for 2009

- The focus will be Europe’s DTM series, the 24 Hours of Le Mans and customer sport programs
- No activities in the 2009 American Le Mans Series

INGOLSTADT, Germany, Dec 5, 2008 - Audi announced it will concentrate its motorsports efforts for 2009 on the new R15 TDI sport prototype for the 24 Hours of Le Mans race, the re-worked race touring car A4 for the DTM circuit and the newly developed R8 LMS for customer use in the GT3 class. Audi also said it will not be represented by its factory team, Audi Sport North America, in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) in 2009.

Audi entered the American Le Mans Series in the year 2000 and has been instrumental in building up this championship series ever since. The championship has become one of the most fascinating motorsport series with a growing fan base. The ALMS is recognized internationally and is regarded as the world’s best sports car championship.

“The decision to withdraw was a very difficult one for these reasons. Furthermore, with the Champion racing team we had a partner that operates at the highest level. The extraordinary dedication and precision of Team Champion was the key to Audi’s victories over the last few years in America. ” said Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich, the head of Audi Motorsport, in relating the difficult decision by Audi AG to call off ALMS participation next year. “We achieved an unprecedented winning series together. Since the 2000 season Audi has won the LMP1 title nine-times in succession in this high-caliber sports car championship. Our brand dominated the circuit last season by taking seven wins in eleven races.”

Dr. Ullrich also noted how technology developed for Audi’s racing efforts in ALMS and elsewhere is turning into benefits for U.S. consumers. “TDI Technology in racing supported the market launch of Audi TDI Technology in the U.S. perfectly”; he said.

While Audi AG plans to concentrate its factory involvement at European venues throughout the 2009 season in these economically tough times, American fans of Audi motorsports will be treated to a premiere: The all-new Audi R15 TDI sports prototype will make its debut March 21, 2009 during the 12-hour race at Sebring, Fla. This international racing classic, which will be contested by Audi Sport Team Joest, is traditionally regarded as excellent preparation and a final test-race for the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in France. At the same time, the race at Sebring with its special demands made of man and machine guarantees excellent motorsports competition.

Michèle Mouton’s Audi Quattro Sport can be Yours! (Sorta)

Seyth Miersma — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 08:52:52 -0600

Those drivers with dreams of being a rally titan should pay special attention to this eBay Motors find, despite a set of rather daunting circumstances for potential customers in the U.S. A Dutch seller has created what appears to be—based on the rather skimpy selection of low-res images—a fairly flawless replica of the Audi Club Quattro Sport that was campaigned in 1980 by the likes of Michèle Mouton in the World Rally Championship.

Assembled from three donor Audis to, “Get the lines correct, windshield angles correct and all the measurements of the bodyshell accurate to the original,” the car is actually propelled by the not insignificant 4.2-liter V-8 from an S4. Sounds pretty good right? The only real problems are the car’s location (a town called Veghel in the Netherlands), the rather steep price ($69,000 buy it now), and the fact that the auction is ending in about 30 minutes at the time of this writing. Fast action required!

+ eBay Motors: 1980 Audi GT

Spy Shot: Audi R8 GT3 Spied Testing at the Nürburgring

Seyth Miersma — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:08:55 -0600

Introduced to the world this past August, it seems that Audi and racing team ABT Sportsline are spending some time at the Nürburgring with this, supremely wild R8 GT3.

The hugely winged and kitted R8 is said to have been fitted to the requirements of a GT3 race car, meaning that all of its 500 horsepower is directed to the rear wheels only—as four-wheel drive isn’t permitted in the formula. That prodigious shove from the V-10 engine is handled through a six-speed sequential gearbox. We’ve heard rumors that the racy R8 was clearing the ‘Ring in laps of around eight minutes, forty seconds, which isn’t bad considering the recently rainy driving conditions.

Have a closer look at the super R8 GT3 in our gallery above, or scroll down below to read a few words penned by the spy shooter himself.

Audi has been at the Nürburgring with their race partners ABT testing the R8 GT3 racecar this week. First introduced in August this year, this R8 will be a racecar for the GT3 class and therefore send all the power of that 500+ horsepower strong V10 to the rear wheels via a six-speed sequential gearbox. For those who are not familiar with the regulation in the GT3 class, four-wheel drive is not allowed in that class.

Most testing was done by Audis factory driver Frank Biela, also known for winning the 24 hour race at Le Mans five times. All times with Audi.

ABT Sportsline is responsible for the Audi DTM racecars.

Volkswagen's Contender: the Touareg V12 TDI Race Truck

Hardy Shen — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 11:05:08 -0600

In order to compete in the 634-mile-long 41st Annual Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 desert race, Volkswagen seemingly forged, machined, and filed away at a giant block of steel until the Touareg TDI Trophy Truck was born. To be unveiled at the L.A Auto Show, and christened with the name Touareg, the only similarities the truck has with its road-going relative are its four wheels and its name. Knowing that, it would certainly be quite a blunder to take this beast of a machine lightly.

A 5.5-liter V-12 clean turbo diesel engine growls somewhere underneath its sharp and cutting exterior and is able to produce 550 horsepower and 625 pound-feet of torque. And will need every bit of that power considering it weighs in at a massive 5650 pounds. Hopefully, its Xtrac six-speed sequential transmission will be able to hold up to that combo.

+ Carscoop: VW To Unveil Touareg V12 TDI Race Truck at L.A. Show

KTM X-Bow Joins the 2008 Race of Champions

Seyth Miersma — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 09:55:51 -0600

With participants hailing from Formula 1, NASCAR, the World Touring Car Championship, the World Rally Championship, and more, the Race of Champions is a pretty impressive spectacle. The event challenges drivers, usually splint into teams representing the drivers’ country of origin, to navigate the super tight confines of a road course, shoehorned onto a stadium field. The ROC found a new home at Wembley Stadium last winter, and will take place there again this year.

Adding a bit of excitement to the proceedings this go-round, the wide swath of racers will be piloting the hardcore KTM X-Bow. The newly debuted track demon would seem to be a natural choice for the tight confines of Wembley, and one that has got the drivers talking already.

Longtime F1 driver David Coulthard is excited to trade in his standard racecar confines for a night with the X-Bow, calling the car “ingenious” and adding, “I think it looks absolutely stunning – I can hardly wait to get behind the wheel in December.”

The ROC is set to go off on December 13th this year, though it remains to be seen if U.S. motorsports fans will get a broadcast.

KTM X-BOW SELECTED FOR THE RACE OF CHAMPIONS

The stunning KTM X-Bow has been selected for the “Race of Champions”, the crowning finale of the motorsport year, which takes place at Wembley Stadium in December.

The minimalist Austrian sportscar was launched in the summer of 2008 to critical acclaim. It’s inclusion in the annual Race of Champions was announced by event organisers Michel Mouton and Fredrik Johnsson on 7 November.

“The X-Bow is an exciting new sportscar, it looks completely unlike anything else,” explained Fredrik Johnsson, President of Race of Champions organiser, IMP. “I’m particularly delighted to welcome KTM to our event, as I think being able to actually see the drivers at work in the car will add a new element to The Race of Champions.”

The Race of Champions, taking place on 13 and 14 December, brings together some of the world’s best drivers for head-to-head motorsport competition on a bespoke track at the wheel of a variety of cars. Already confirmed for this year’s event are a number of stars from Formula One, the World Touring Car Championship, the World Rally Championship and the World Superbike Championship. Further participants will be announced over the coming weeks.

“This is really an ingenious car concept,” said David Coulthard, one of 2008’s Formula One stars confirmed for the event. “I think it looks absolutely stunning – I can hardly wait to get behind the wheel in December.”

Mr. Werner Wilhelm, KTM Sportcar CEO, is delighted with the inclusion of X-Bow in this year’s Race of Champions. “To be a part of this event is a really exciting for KTM and it backs up our company ethos of ‘Ready to Race.’ We are confident that the X-Bow will provide a lot of fun for both drivers and fans!”

Track Day Ugly: The Fuoss 01

Hardy Shen — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 08:49:24 -0500

Following the recent trend of designers imagining up individualized track-day cars, Dieter Fuoss thought that he would show the world his own version—set to be released for the public in early 2009. The Fuoss 01, weighing in at just 661 pounds, is definitely one of the lighter lightweights. It is powered by a 400cc Suzuki engine capable of a wholesome 42 horses, with a 5-speed sequential gearbox to transfer the power to the wheels. Although the speed tops out at around 91 miles per hour, hitting that kind of speed while sitting low in such a tiny, light car will be saved for those that have enough courage, or at least a lack of sense.

Sadly, it won't come with any sort of top for rainy days but at least the interior is rainproof. So for those who don't mind shelling out $37,000, and maybe getting a little wet, this is could be the car for you. As a bonus, the Fuoss 01 will even do 47 miles per gallon, though most likely when it isn't being thrashed around on the track.

+ Motor Authority: Fuoss 01 hits the track in early 2009

Corvette Racing Transitions to GT2 Challenge

Hardy Shen — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 10:52:54 -0500

The 2009 American Le Mans Series will mark the end for Corvette Racing competing in the GT1 class. The General Motors factory race team will transition to the GT2 class instead, possibly debuting at the Mid-Ohio ALMS race in August.

The GT2 entry will be based on the next generation Corvette C6R and compete while burning cellulosic E85. The new car will be almost indistinguishable from the current GT1 racer, apart from a smaller rear wing. Powered by a 6.0-liter engine, it will have less horsepower than the GT1 car, and the new car will also run steel brake rotors instead of the usual carbon fiber items.

According to Doug Fehan, Corvette Racing program manager, the engineering and design work is done. All that is needed now is to build and assemble the cars which will begin in the next week or so.

Though Fehan is certain that the new car will not outright dominate the first time, he is still confident in the team's capabilities.

"We've done the simulations on it. We know what the rules are and we know what the other cars are capable of. When we finally come out we'll do the best job we possibly can," said Fehan.

+ American Le Mans Series: Corvette Racing Readies for GT2 Challenge

GM's New Chevrolet Cruze WTCC Race Car for the 2009 Season

Hardy Shen — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 09:07:41 -0500

With twelve World Touring Car Championship wins under their belt using the Daewoo-built Lacetti, Chevrolet unveiled the new Cruze based WTCC contender for the 2009 season.

Equipped with a paintjob that appears to be some sort of digital camouflage made up of Chevrolet logos, the WTCC Cruze is already undergoing testing for its upcoming debut in Curitiba, Brazil next spring. So far, the team seems rather confident. According to motorsport manager Eric Nève, the "new Cruze will be the next milestone in Chevrolet Europe's motorsports history."

The championship racers are all based on compact and midsized cars, powered by 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engines. All the cars also have to be derived from its manufactured counterpart though heavy modifications are allowed. Judging from the pictures, the Cruze seems to at least look the part. Click through the post to read GM's official press release.

+ Autoblog: GM unveils Chevrolet Cruze WTCC racer

CHEVROLET PRESENTS NEW CRUZE FOR 2009 WTCC

To Continue Chevrolet's World Touring Car Success

ZÜRICH / WELLINGBOROUGH – Chevrolet Europe has shown the first glimpse of the marque's 2009 World Touring Car Championship contender, today. The all-new Chevrolet Cruze, which recently premiered at the Paris Motor Show, will continue Chevrolet's presence in the WTCC, in which the marque so far has won twelve world championship races.

Testing of the new race car – which is the first to start Chevrolet's new design language in Europe – has already started and is on schedule, and will continue throughout the remainder of the current season and the coming winter. Developed, built, run and driven by the same team and drivers, the Cruze will be all but guaranteed the same speed, reliability and success. The Chevrolet Cruze's first competitive outing will be in Brazil at the opening round of the 2009 WTCC in Curitiba. In 2009, the WTCC will again visit twelve tracks, in South and Central-America, Africa, Europe and the Far-East.

Wayne Brannon: "Chevrolet has motorsport is deeply embedded in our DNA. With the new Cruze World Touring Car, Chevrolet continues to embrace its long tradition of winning on and off the track.. In the past four seasons, Chevrolet had distinguished itself in racing with an increasing number of victories, not so different from the record sales growth which has developed in Europe. Again this year, sales are up by 23 percent in the first six month, and we are very proud that customers are choosing us in record numbers. For our European dealers, the WTCC has been an extremely useful communications tool, and they look forward to the next season with Cruze. With Cruze, we again look to emphasize the synergy between product and motorsports, and the WTCC is the best possible platform to achieve this. The championship's slogan is 'Real Cars, Real Racing', and that fits nicely with our philosophy to provide real cars for real lives, with expressive design, world class quality / reliability and an impressive list of standard features and content, all at an affordable price."

Eric Nève: "The new Cruze will be the next milestone in Chevrolet Europe's motorsports history. So far, we have achieved every goal we set in 2005, step by step: challenge the competition, score points, prove we can win and then become regular frontrunners against competition with an established motorsports resume. With the Cruze, we will put the bar even higher and firmly aim at winning the World Championship. Chevrolet's unique 'trump card' is having worked with the same team, engineers and drivers for the past four seasons, with the success we all know. To be able to do this again with the Cruze will only help to increase our chances of achieving our goals."

Vintage Video Vendition: Guitar Heroes and the Ford Escort Cosworth

Seyth Miersma — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 09:21:48 -0500

This four-minute long YouTube video is really one half Ford Escort Cosworth commercial and half extra-cheesy music video featuring the guitar stylings of Queen’s lead axe-wielder, Brian May. We’ve always loved the Cossie from afar, so we can really get behind some of the glorious detail shots and tail-out action in this nearly feature length ad (where did they show this thing?), but we must admit that May has done better work. Don’t miss the tail end when he throws a little Queen-style harmony in for good measure.

+ YouTube: Ford Escort Cosworth

Mitsubishi Tips 2025 Rally Racer: The MMR25

Seyth Miersma — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 12:03:45 -0500

Mitsubishi Motors has just tipped its entry into the LA Auto Show Design Challenge for this year, and extraordinary conceptual rally car straight from the 2025 season.

The MMR25 concept makes use of a radical omnidirectional wheel design which uses eight independently controlled electric motors. The idea is that the wild wheels will be able to keep the vehicle moving on a forward path while pointing the nose in any direction that is called for. The net effect will be the ability to literally drive sideways, instead of just drifting like a modern rally car.

Naturally, the Mitsu rally car is all electrically powered, with fully recyclable batteries that are able to run for up to 1000 miles on a single charge. That may sound like a lot but we are talking about "uniform composite Nano fiber Lithium batteries" here - not your average Duracell.

And though the MM25 may look fairly badass from the outside, it sounds like kind of a terrifying proposition for the driver, who pilots the machine from the inside of a "windowless pod" somewhere below the center wing. This chamber of fear moves up and down with the wing as the MM25 goes about its business, feeding all of the visual information to the driver via a seamless 360 degree, prone to failure, panoramic display. And you thought today's rally drivers had stones.

Check out the full design brief below.

Mitsubishi Motors Enters its Innovative 2025 Rally Racer
for LA Auto Show’s Design Challenge

Continuing its world racing heritage and its industry leading expertise in electric vehicles, Mitsubishi Motors has introduced the most revolutionary racing technology that will defy automotive racing standards in the year 2025.
Mitsubishi's MMR25 is an all-electric race car powered by a revolutionary drivetrain the future has not yet imagined. This forward-looking, high output powertrain is comprised of four lightweight, high-efficiency, in-wheel electric motors whose output is boosted with the help of eight supplemental motors. The batteries are next generation units, which are more powerful, fully recyclable and can run up to 1,000 miles on a single charge. Specially developed uniform composite Nano fibers give the Lithium batteries their long life and reduced weight. These powerful, yet compact battery packs are located in the center and on each side of the vehicle and are positioned low to the ground for enhanced stability and a lower center of gravity.

The MMR25 incorporates an omnidirectional wheel design that consists of eight independently-controlled electric motors within each wheel hub. This makes the MMR25 the first and only “8 x 4” wheel drive vehicle. The rotational direction of the tires allows the vehicle to be driven forward while pointing the nose of the vehicle in any direction, instead of drifting you can actually drive sideways (or at any angle.) Innovative “Oblique Aerodynamics” gives the vehicle aero advantages when driving sideways.

A driver sits inside a windowless pod just below the center wing. The center wing spoiler is located directly over the cabin, which rises and lowers as the vehicle moves sideways. This pod is surrounded by a seamless, 360-degree panoramic screen displaying images from outside cameras. Removing the heavy glass windows significantly reduces vehicle weight and enables the driver to see changing environmental and track conditions throughout the day. Special Memory Metal Alloy is used in fabricating the sophisticated front and rear spoilers, which also act as suspension blades.

For Sale: New 2009 Nissan GT-R, Slightly Drag-Raced

Seyth Miersma — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:53:41 -0500

Oh, the bittersweet joy of being a Nissan dealer these days. Many of the longsuffering auto sellers have by now taken delivery of their tiny allotment of GT-Rs, perhaps lived with them in their showrooms for a day, maybe two? And then are forced to hand over the keys for nothing more than hugely inflated sums of money. Not a fate we’d wish on anyone really.

Luckily, it looks as if a few enterprising Midwestern dealers have managed to squeeze a little time in behind the wheel, at least if these photos from Great Lakes Dragway in Union Grove, Wisconsin can be believed. It seems as if two spanking new GT-Rs showed up at the Wisconsin drag strip recently ready to throw some rubber around. One of the cars was allegedly piloted by a newly minted GT-R owner feverishly anxious to find out what his prize was capable of, while the other was a pre-delivery model being driven by a dealership employee who just couldn’t help himself.

While it must really be tough to say "no" in a situation like the one pictured here, we’d like to shout a bit of a warning to anyone ready to take GT-R delivery in the greater Chicago area in the near future. Keep a close eye on tire wear, mileage, and maybe just a little bit of throw-up near the driver’s seat. Caveat Emptor and everything.

+ GTRBlog

Preview: Maserati GranTurismo MC Corsa Concept to Paris Motor Show

Seyth Miersma — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 09:40:02 -0500

Maserati is planning to bring a hardcore, racing tuned version of its effortlessly beautiful GranTurismo coupe to the Paris Motor Show next week, called the MC Corse Concept.

Suitable for those Maser buyers who’re more interested in racing than posing in their Italian supercars, the Corse offers quite a few meaningful upgrades over the standard car. The most obvious difference from the outside is the new aero package that the car wears, including a prominent front splitter that is said to purposefully funnel air to the revised and enlarged rear spoiler, keeping the Corse firmly planted on the track. The racing concept has also been lightened – Maserati specifies that the MC Corse weights less than 1400 Kilograms or 3086 pounds – and draws more power from its 4.7-liter V-8, now rated at 450 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque.

Various additional scoops, creases, and a racy white livery complete the Corse package, and ensure that the Maserati stand will be buzzing at the Paris show. Check out the car in the gallery above.

Porsche Prepping Hardcore Cayman RS?

Seyth Miersma — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 09:59:49 -0500

After recently seeing spied images that hinted towards a possible RS version of Porsche’s popular Boxster , new evidence in the form of this photo set would seem to indicate that the Cayman may be getting the RS treatment as well.

The blazing orange Cayman S seen here has an expanded rear wing which is fixed in position, as well a set of splitters up front that would indicate an enhanced model. A Cayman RS would theoretically be stripped down for advanced performance on the track, perhaps even getting a mild bump in power in the process.

We’ll likely know for certain what exactly Porsche is up to after the Geneva Motor Show next March, and are free to let our imaginations wander in the meantime. Scroll down to read the shooter’s own words and check out the beefy Cayman in our gallery above.

Last month we showed you a possible Porsche Boxster RS with big fixed wing in the rear. Now it’s time for a possible RS version of the Cayman.

With a different front spoiler with splitters, and a bigger rear spoiler this Cayman looks different than the normal Cayman S. In this case the rear spoiler also looks like it’s fixed.

Whether it’s really a RS version or not, our guess is that we have to wait at least until the Geneva Car Show in March to get an answer. But it sure looks interesting and we also believe that a lot of Porsche freaks would love a hard core stripped out Cayman RS.

We can just dream about 30-40 horsepower more and 100 kg less. But sometimes dreams come true.

The Cars of Phil Hill

Seyth Miersma — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 12:03:32 -0500

As the only American born Formula 1 Champion in history, Phil Hill place in racing’s pantheon is assured. The motorsports world sadly marked Hill’s passing yesterday, so we thought it only appropriate to further burnish his sterling reputation with a list of some of the finest motorcars Hill ever laid a booted foot to during his F1 career. Here then is a list of five of our favorite Phil Hill race cars, in no particular order.

Found on eBay: 1988 Saleen Sport Truck

Seyth Miersma — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 11:09:24 -0500

Purpose built to race in SCCA truck series events, Saleen was obliged to make 27 copies of this red-blooded Ranger to conform to homologation rules. Three of these Saleen Rangers went on to racing careers, with the remaining 24 trucks becoming among the rarest Saleen products of all time.

Now one of these rare beasts has come up for auction at eBay Motors, set to become the ultimate centerpiece in some lucky fast Ford collection. While still keeping its full-length bed, this 1988 Ranger has had a massive aero kit added on, as well as getting bodywork-matching white five-spoke alloy wheels, sport seats, and uprated suspension components. Strangely the 2.9-liter Ford V-6 was left untouched by the tuner’s hands, and is likely to offer less-than-inspired performance with its 140 horsepower.

Power deficit to the contrary, Saleen did have a good deal of success racing the Ranger, and this model’s tiny production run can only mean good things for its long-term value.

+ eBay Motors: 1988 Ford Mustang SALEEN TRUCK

Video: Dodge Viper ACR Unofficially Laps 'Ring in 7:22.1

Steven J. Ewing — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 13:59:52 -0500

Just after the new Corvette ZR1 lapped the Nürburgring in a record-setting 7:26.4, the Dodge Viper ACR has now been videotaped beating the Corvette's time by just over four seconds at 7:22.1.

Our friends at Motor Trend captured the whole thing on video, and while the time isn't one hundred percent official yet, it's hard not to believe when watching the ACR race 'round the 'Ring.

+ YouTube
+ Motor Trend

Audi to Build GT3 R8 Customer Race Car

Seyth Miersma — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 07:42:52 -0500

Audi, whose motorsports division has been a dominant presence in sports car racing for a decade, is set to put yet another feather in its racing cap. The German automaker has announced plans to offer a race-tuned GT3 version of its R8 sports car for customer purchase, and set to appear in action by next year.

Developed under the code name “R16” within Audi’s Sport division, the new R8 will offer more than 500 horsepower and conform to all production-based GT3 regulations. To meet those standards for numerous racing events across the globe, the Audi team has had to do away with the Quattro system (GT3 regs prohibit four-wheel drive) and replace it with a more conventional rear-drive layout. Power is managed through a six-speed sequential gearbox, and the R8 has been further modified for competition with a far more aggressive aerodynamic package and multiple upgraded safety components.

Head of Audi Motorsport, Dr Wolfgang Ullrich, says that creating the R8 GT3 car was in part the result of massive demand on the part of the company’s customer base. "Ever since the R8 was unveiled we’ve been inundated with enquiries about a race version,” said Ullrich. “With the Audi R8 we will offer customers a racing sportscar equipped with high-calibre technology and the typical Audi qualities, but which is nevertheless easy to handle."

While no images of the upcoming R8 were released, the car may be not unlike the version pictured above, a privateer entry in the 2008 Nürburgring 24-hour endurance race. Read the full Audi press release below.

Audi develops race version of the R8

•    Customer sport programme with the mid-engine sportscar
•    First races planned for 2009 season
•    Factory driver Frank Biela completes roll-out

Ingolstadt – For the first time, Audi Sport will offer a racing sports car specifically developed for customer use in the form of the powerful 500 hp plus GT3 version of the Audi R8 which will be available from autumn 2009. The logistics and factory space required for the AUDI AG customer programme will be created over the next few months in Ingolstadt, Neckarsulm and Györ.

"The R8 is the first production Audi bearing the name and genes of a successful racing sportscar and is therefore an excellent base from which to build up our first big customer sport programme," explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr Wolfgang Ullrich. "Ever since the R8 was unveiled we’ve been inundated with enquiries about a race version. With the Audi R8 we will offer customers a racing sportscar equipped with high-calibre technology and the typical Audi qualities, but which is nevertheless easy to handle."

The Audi R8 conforms to the production-based GT3 regulations allowing the car to be fielded in numerous national and international race series.

Because the GT3 regulations prohibit the use of four-wheel drive the Audi R8 comes with the typical GT rear-wheel drive. The power is transmitted via a newly developed six-speed sequential sports gearbox. The suspension uses almost exclusively components from the production line. A comprehensive list of safety equipment guarantees the highest-level of passive safety. A modified front end and a large rear-wing generate the required downforce for the race track.

The Audi R8, which bears the project name "R16" within Audi Sport, was developed under the direction of Audi Sport. Mid August, the first prototype successfully completed a roll-out in the hands of Audi factory driver Frank Biela.

The first test races in various European racing series are scheduled for the 2009 season. Delivery to the customers is planned from the autumn of this coming year.

The customer cars are manufactured together by Audi Sport and the quattro GmbH, which is also responsible for production of the Audi R8 street version, and Audi Hungaria Motor Kft. (Györ).

Tuning: Katech Corvette Z06 ClubSport Offers Lightweight Performance

Steven J. Ewing — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:40:36 -0500

Do you have over $100,000 to spend on a Corvette but don't want to give in to the hype of the fantastic new ZR1? Katech has the car for you. Based out of Clinton Township, Michigan, Katech has long been known for its high-performance engines and professional racing developments and Winding Road has had the opportunity to test one of its previous creations, the Street Attack Corvette Z06.

The new Corvette Z06 ClubSport incorporates an array of products in order to reduce the curb weight of the Z06 to a minimum of 2825 pounds (a reduction of over 260 pounds) while improving grip, cornering, braking, and downforce. All of this is done with the addition of a Brembo Gran Turismo brake kit, a double-adjustable Clubsport suspension, special wheels, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires, carbon-fiber air intake, performance exhaust, and twin-disc clutch.

Katech boasts this Z06 as a "Scuderia" or "Superleggera" variant even though engine output has not been tweaked. For a price of $109,000, we'd rather have the new ZR1, but this Z06 ClubSport is still a unique transformation for track-day Corvette enthusiasts.

Click through the post to read Katech's full press release.

KATECH PERFORMANCE UNVEILS LIGHTWEIGHT Z06 FOR THE TRACK
New ClubSport Package Shaves Pounds to Shave Seconds off Lap Times

CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Katech Performance, ever attuned to the collective conscious of the Corvette universe, knew this – enthusiasts wanted a lighter weight Z06 tuned for the track. Now they have it.

The Corvette Z06 ClubSport package – available exclusively from Katech Performance and Les Stanford Chevrolet (Dearborn, Mich.) – incorporates an array of aftermarket products that, in unison, reduce curb weight to 2,915 lbs. (2,825 lbs. fully optimized) while improving grip, cornering, braking and downforce.

“The Z06 is already wonderfully light weight,” commented Jason Harding, performance parts sales, Katech Performance. “We knew, however, that we could improve the power-to-weight ratio with several select modifications. Lamborghini has its Gallardo Superleggera, Ferrari its F430 Scuderia and Dodge its Viper ACR. Now the Corvette Z06 has the ClubSport package from Katech Performance.”

What does one feed Chevrolet’s already well-conditioned athlete to shed pounds and improve its game? The ClubSport diet calls for:

Brembo® Gran Turismo Brake Kit
Two-piece cross-drilled rotors significantly reduce un-sprung rotating mass; front six-piston monobloc calipers squeeze 14-inch rotors; rear four-piston monobloc calipers pinch 13.6-inch rotors

Moton Clubsport Suspension
Double-adjustable coil-overs enhance power-to-the-pavement delivery while offering seven individually adjustable rebound and compression settings; system is specially tuned by Moton engineers and SCCA World Challenge professional driver Andy Pilgrim

Katech Performance ClubSport Wheels
15-spoke, single-piece forged aluminum wheels (18x9.5-inch front; 19x12-inch rear) further reduce un-sprung rotating mass; finished in attractive gray powder coat

Michelin® Pilot® Sport Cup Tires
Enhance grip and handling while reducing total mass (285/30R18 front; 325/30R19 rear)

Katech Performance Appearance Package
Carbon fiber front splitter improves aerodynamics and is complemented by a matching carbon fiber rear spoiler that improves downforce; lift-off carbon fiber World Challenge hood vents the engine compartment, reduces weight by 50% and provides more downforce; ClubSport racing stripe on front fenders and rear fascia identifies vehicle as an exclusive Katech Performance creation

Halltech Killer Bee™ Air Intake
Carbon fiber intake designed specifically to complement Katech Performance’s carbon fiver valve covers

Katech Performance Exhaust System
Lightweight 18-gauge stainless steel design incorporating X-pipe, two lightweight mufflers, over-axle pipes and CORSA® quad tips; reduces weight and produces a deep, racecar-like tone while maintaining a civil pitch on public roads

Exedy Twin-Disc Clutch
Reduces drivetrain mass and makes for easy rev-matched downshifts

Braille Battery
All-season; reduces weight in the rear

Several optional supplements are also available including: Caravaggio leather race seats; A/C and/or radio delete as well as carpet delete to further reduce weight; roll bar or harness bar and six-point harnesses; and an ARE dry sump system.

So what’s the final verdict? A power-to-weight ratio of 5.45 lbs./horsepower (standard) or 5.28 lbs./horsepower (fully optimized).

Complete with a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty, the Katech Performance Z06 ClubSport starts at $109,000 (standard) and is expected to maintain 50-state emissions compliance*. Power plant improvements – including an array of modified LS7 engine packages – are also available for customers who want to upgrade to a true Katech Performance “Street Attack” Z06.

To purchase a brand new ClubSport Z06 from Les Stanford Chevrolet – “America’s Corvette King” – call 800.699.VETT or visit www.lesstanford.com. Already own a 2006-2009 Z06? Bring your Vette to Katech to get started on the ClubSport plan. Call 866.KATECH1 or visit www.katechengines.com.

Katech Performance, the aftermarket performance division of Katech Inc., engineers and manufactures race-proven crate engines and components for LS1/LS6 and LS2/LS7 engines including solid belt tensioners, coil relocation brackets, cylinder heads, dampers, pistons, push rods, throttle bodies and valve covers, among other high-performance products for the street and track.

Katech Inc. was founded on the need to provide responsive service and skills to factory race efforts in all forms of racing, including the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), NASCAR®, SCCA SPEED World Challenge, American Speed Association (ASA) and International Motor Sports Association (IMSA). Today, Katech is an industrial leader in advanced racing and high-performance engine development, manufacturing, testing and assembly, and offers support services for the professional racer including boring, honing, fabrication, welding and prototype parts development.

Katech Performance is located at 24324 Sorrentino Court, Clinton Township, MI, 48035. Contact the company by phone at 866-KATECH1 or visit online at www.katechengines.com.

The NextAutos Tiny Car Grand Prix: Sweet Sixteen Action

Seyth Miersma — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 15:22:01 -0500

The round of 16 for our Next Autos Tiny Car GP tournament is now in the books, with a big day being had by teams Audi and Ferrari. After a three victories in the opening round of the Tiny Car battle, Lotus lost two competitors with the Esprit taking it on the chin from the longer, heavier RS6 Avant, and the spritely Elise 340R succumbing to the brilliantly green Mercury Cougar. The Lotus and Mercury provided the closest matchup of the day by far, with the first heat being so close that neither of our line judges could pick the first finisher, ultimately leading to a restart.

Team Lotus did uphold some of its pride in the second round pairings however, as the almost absurdly fast M250 was able to dispatch Honda’s last competitor with ease. The Opel Speedster was able to blank the Dodge Charger, two heats to none, as well. Good luck for Dodge then that it’s NASCAR-darling Charger Daytona was able to squeak by the vaunted Jaguar D-Type.

While we try to keep an emotional distance so as not to influence the outcome of the races, we have to admit that we were sorry to see the Buick Grand National served its walking papers by the victorious Audi R8, a worthy competitor to be sure. It’ll be Ferrari’s history P4 taking on the R8 in the next round.

We’ve got a gallery of the day’s racing action for you to enjoy above, and the promise of an even more outrageous round of action as we narrow the competition later this week.

Ferrari F1 Circa 2001, You Won't Believe Your Ears

Seyth Miersma — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:34:18 -0500