Audi showcases R8-based concept car

(21/01/2008)

Audi is exploring the possibility of breaking yet another mould with a road-going R8-based TDI supercar. The R8 V12 TDI Concept makes its debut at this month’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit, replacing the production sports car’s mid-mounted petrol FSI V8 with a 12-cylinder TDI endowed with an incredible 1,000 Nm of torque.

First seen in the forthcoming Audi Q7 V12 TDI SUV, the 6.0 litre twin-turbo V12 engine with 500PS is similar in basic concept to the R10 TDI’s 5.5 litre race engine. It delivers its colossal 1,000 Nm output from just 1,750 rpm, guaranteeing the effortless delivery of a 4.2 second, 0-62mph acceleration time and a top speed in excess of 186mph.

Despite these statistics, this engine shows restraint when it comes to environmental impact. Its fundamental efficiency, achieved through an advanced common rail fuel injection system enhanced by piezo injectors, is complemented by twin particulate filters and a new, innovative ultra-low emission system that ensures compliance with the EU6 emission limits expected to apply from 2014.

The heart of the system is a special catalytic converter downstream of the oxidising catalyst and particulate filter. The second component is an additional tank containing an aqueous urea solution. Small quantities of the solution, known as ‘AdBlue’, are injected into the exhaust system. The hot exhaust gases break the solution down to form ammonia that splits the nitric oxides into inert nitrogen and water. The system remains effective for the entire service life of the vehicle.

The R8’s classic mid-engine configuration, combined with the advanced Audi Space Frame® (ASF) – lightweight aluminium panelling attached to an aluminium frame – provides the best operating conditions for the futuristic chassis, which also contains a high proportion of aluminium components.

The V12 TDI Concept is equipped with the advanced Audi magnetic ride adaptive damping system, which uses magnetorheological fluid containing minute magnetic particles that can be affected by an electromagnetic field. By applying a voltage to the system’s electromagnets, the viscosity of the fluid is changed by these magnetic particles. This increases resistance to damper movement to correct pitch and roll when necessary, and reduce resistance at times when ride comfort is of greater importance. The system constantly monitors road conditions and driving style, and reacts accordingly.

A specially tailored version of Audi drive select, the adaptive dynamics system introduced recently in the new A4 Saloon, also helps to personalise the driving experience. Offering ‘Dynamic’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ settings, it enables further fine-tuning of the magnetic ride dampers and the parameters of the engine and transmission. With ‘Race’ setting selected on a circuit, the interior instrument lighting changes from white to red and the onboard satellite navigation system displays navigation information relating to the specific circuit being driven, along with a lap timer. Supplementary information, including centrifugal force and boost pressure, can also be accessed in this mode.

Whether on road or circuit, the R8 is effectively moderated by high-performance carbon-fibre-reinforced ceramic brakes, and by the legendary quattro® permanent four-wheel-drive system. This apportions power to front and rear axles in constantly varying degrees dictated by road conditions and prevents the less desirable handling traits often exhibited by powerful mid-engine, rear-drive sports cars.

Additional downforce is provided by a specially developed, larger version of the production car’s automatically extending rear spoiler, combined with a fully clad diffuser under-body and special measures such as diffuser apertures in the rear bumper. Efficient air channelling accentuates the R8’s widely acclaimed handling capabilities and, to cool the potent V12 engine, air is captured effectively by racing-derived NACA ducts in the new, passenger-compartment glass roof.

The engine itself is also displayed in all its glory beneath a clear glass cover, through which special air deflectors can be seen. At only 684 mm, the surprisingly compact 12-cylinder is only 166 mm longer than the V8 TDI.

Inside, the V12 TDI Concept is distinguishable by its additional aluminium and carbon fibre elements, and by its moulded, racing-style sports seats. On the outside, it is marked out by enlarged inlet and outlet ducts at the front, side and rear, LED lights, the modified rear spoiler and exclusive alloy wheels.

Related categories:  Audi   Sports car 

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