Audi banks on efficiency at Le Mans

Audi will fight for victory in the Le Mans 24 Hours on June 12/13 with an evolution of the R15 TDI diesel race sports car.
An extensive testing program with the revised LMP1 vehicle has just begun in the United States.
Efficiency was a focal point during the R15 TDI evolution project, particularly in the complex area of aerodynamics. A late change in regulations that was announced only in November made the work of the engineers more difficult and forced Audi to completely modify the front section of the R15 TDI.

Consequently, the diesel race sports car that is internally designated as "R15 plus" now has a new, distinctive face featuring a split nose.
The entire shape of the R15 TDI's body has been revised for maximum efficiency. The same is true for the modified cooling and fuel tank system.
The V10 TDI engine has been optimized for the smaller air restrictors and reduced supercharging pressure.
The evolution version of the Audi R15 TDI completed its roll out on the Audi test track at Neustadt (Germany) on March 3. The vehicle was subsequently flown to the United States for two weeks of in-depth testing.
Before the race at Le Mans in June, Audi Sport Team Joest will complete an extensive testing program on various European racetracks and test races at the 8 Hours of Le Castellet (France) on April 11 and at the 1000-kilometer race at Spa-Francorchamps (Belgium) on May 9.
A new partner has now joined the project: the logo of the renowned watchmaker TAG Heuer will be featured on the Audi R15 TDI.
Some of the brand's fame stems from U.S. actor Steve McQueen wearing a TAG Heuer watch in the movie "Le Mans".