(continued from above)
The new Audi A5 DTM, which bears the internal project name "R17" at Audi
Sport, conforms to the new Technical Regulations that will come into effect in
the 2012 season. The project was premised on three key aims: the safety of the
vehicles, reduction of the costs by up to 40 percent and a spectacular exterior
design.
IAA visitors will have the opportunity to get a first-hand
impression of the new car's look at the Audi Hall from September 13th to 25th.
The Audi A5 DTM appears lower and sturdier than its successful predecessor with
which Audi has won four of the last seven DTM titles. Underneath the body, which
is completely made of carbon, a new type of chassis features a hybrid
construction. The combination of a carbon fiber monocoque and steel cage sets
new standards in terms of safety for a race touring car. In addition, the
chassis is one of more than 50 components which are identical for all DTM
vehicles.
"Due to these shared components it was possible to achieve the
cost reduction target of up to 40 percent without compromising on the safety and
attractiveness of the DTM vehicles," explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr.
Wolfgang Ullrich, who has been in charge of the new Audi A5 DTM development.
The A5 DTM is 197.2 in (5010 mm) long, 76.8 in (1950 mm) wide and 45.3 in
(1150 mm) low. The wheelbase of all DTM vehicles is identical, i.e. 68.9 in
(2750 millimeters). Like its predecessor, the A5 DTM is powered by a V8 engine
with an output of about 460 hp (340 kW). The six-speed transmission, now
pneumatically operated using paddle shifters in the steering wheel, is a new
development. The shifting events are more precise compared with conventional
manual gearshifts and allow the mileage of the unit to be quadrupled to up to
15,000 miles (24,000 kilometers).
The engine electronics (Bosch MS 5.1),
which operate without fuses, and the central display that is already being used
in the Audi R8 LMS are state-of-the-art as well. The exclusive tire partner
Hankook is supplying larger and wider tires with dimensions resembling those of
LMP2 sports cars.
A safety fuel tank with a capacity of 120 liters is
integrated with the carbon fiber cell of the Audi A5 DTM. It would allow the
current distance of a DTM race to be covered without a refueling stop. For
longer races a quick refueling system is in development.
Audi A5 DTM Race Car: Review (2/2)
