Description
The FIA-GT3 regulation racing car based on the Audi R8, the R8 LMS/R8 LMS ultra, was successful in GT races around the world. However, in March 2015 the R8 LMS racing car also underwent a model change in line with the full model change of the commercial R8.
The point of focus in the 2nd generation R8 LMS was safety. With crumple zones set in the front and rear of the car, the utilisation of the ‘PS1’ Audi Protection Seat from LMP machines and a roof rescue opening for the first time in a GT machine, this model already exceeded the safety standards for the next GT3 regulations to be instated from 2016.
Major changes have been made to the aerodynamics as well. Starting with downforce related changes, such as the now almost completely flat underfloor and a diffuser that has been enlarged in the design change, even the air circulation within the cockpit has been reconsidered to minimise the wear of the driver. As many improvements as possible have been incorporated within the tight GT3 regulations.
While using the production Audi space frame and a V10 engine built on the same production line as the mass produced engine, the vehicle weight has been reduced by 25 kg as a result of reviewing its material composition. The suspension was newly designed and the 6-speed paddle-shift transmission and traction control were also newly developed. Approximately 50% of the parts are shared with the mass production car, but the car has been thoroughly tuned where it needs to be.
This second generation R8 LMS debuted in the N?rburgring 24 Hour Race right after its sales began, taking the overall win in the race.
