Audi’s R8 LMS is all set to take you GT4 racing
Introduced at the New York auto show, it has been designed and engineered to meet performance parameters established for the GT4 European Series.
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Amateur racers will soon have another vehicle to help them attain victory lane now that Audi Sport GmbH has announced its new Audi R8 LMS GT4 racecar.
Introduced at the New York auto show, the Le Mans–class (LMS) model has been designed and engineered to meet the performance parameters first established for the GT4 European Series — a collection of motorsport contests launched in 2007 and limited to non-professional drivers.
The rear-wheel-drive competitor is based off of the Audi R8 Coupe, the marque's powerful daily driver, and shares 60 per cent of its componentry with the latter. Built over an Audi Space Frame (ASF) chassis, the car's body is created from aluminium and composite materials and covers a naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V-10 engine that can generate up to 369kW (variable to specific race requirements).
And a 7-speed double-clutch transmission (with paddle shifters) ensures precise gear engagement. The power train permits a top speed of 250km/h and acceleration from zero to 100km/h in less than 4 seconds.
With a premium placed on safety, Audi's team have integrated a number of protective measures for the pilot, including a steel safety cage (mounted to the car's chassis at six points), safety nets, crash foam within the doors, PS3 safety seats with six-point harnesses, and a fire extinguishing system.
The cockpit arrangement also facilitates driver and automobile interaction with a layout that includes a number of controls located on the steering wheel and a centre display presenting relevant performance metrics.
The GT4-compliant coupe follows Audi's R8 LMS GT3 (debuted in 2009) and the RS LMS (released last year) intended for the GT3 and TCR racing categories, respectively. Audi's latest entry is a timely one, as the GT4 series is expanding its global reach to include Australia, Asia, and North America.
The Audi R8 LMS GT4 will first see action at the Nürburgring 24 Hours event being held from May 25 through to the 28th. Deliveries should begin later this year. (audiusa.com)
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