After winning 10 times using three different technologies - turbocharging and direct injection (TFSI), diesel-power, and Variable Turbine Geometry (VTG) - Audi is now chasing after their 11th victory with their new hybrid technology. Main propulsion for the R18 e-tron quattro comes from a 510 horsepower 3.7L V6 TDi engine that drive the rear wheels. An electric motor positioned on the front axle then recovers kinetic energy during braking and released above 120 km/h giving this LMP quattro four-wheel-drive.
The e-tron quattro's non-hybrid sister car, the number “3” R18 ultra, proved to be just as quick after Loïc Duval posted a lap that's merely 0.291 seconds off the lead. Meanwhile, Tim Kristensen in the number “2” R18 e-tron quattro will start from fourth on the grid and the last R18 in sixth. The only car that barred Audi from taking all top three spots is Toyota's own hybrid, the TS030.
Watch the four Audi R18's race 24 hours non-stop around the Circuit de la Sarthe, France at the 80th edition of the 24 Heures du Mans this Saturday, June 16, 2012, at 9:00 pm Philippine time. Watch it live on Eurosport TV or watch the race live stream from Audi's on board perspective at www.audi-liveracing.com.
