Audi Confirms Final Tech Specs of R18 e-tron quattro

Photo: Claude Foubert

Audi’s new R18 e-tron quattro will utilize a lager displacement V6 turbodiesel powerplant, while opting for the lowest level of energy recovery in the new-for-2014 LMP1 regulations.

The car’s technical specifications were confirmed Tuesday in Le Mans, as part of the German manufacturer’s latest presentation and reveal of its race livery.

With no limitations on displacement in the new rulebook, Audi has opted for a 4.0-liter engine instead of the previous 3.7-liter unit that it used for the past three years.

Additionally, Audi declared it will race under the 2MJ level of energy recovery. LMP1-H teams are permitted to utilize up to 8MJ per lap of Le Mans, but resulting in less fuel allocation.

As previously revealed, the R18 will use only a single hybrid system, a front-wheel driven flywheel-based unit, despite the new rules permitting up to two ERS devices.

““We opted for this concept following extensive testing,”” said Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. ““In our opinion, it provides the optimum balance between efficient energy use, size, weight, energy conversion efficiency, responsiveness, drivability and a favorable operating strategy – combined with durability, which is the basic prerequisite for success at Le Mans.””

LMP1 rivals Porsche and Toyota have yet to reveal which level of ERS (2MJ, 4MJ, 6MJ or 8MJ) their cars will utilize, although it’s understood manufacturers must finalize their configurations prior to this week’s mandatory pre-season FIA WEC test at Paul Ricard.

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John