Audi presented today in Frankfurt the A5 DTM race car, with which the Ingolstadt premium car manufacturer will compete in the 2012 German Touring Car Championship. Internally called the R17, Audi's new A5 DTM promises improvements in the safety department, together with a 40% reduction in costs and an amazing looking design. The Audi A5 DTM measures 5.01 meters in length, 1.95 meters in width and 1.15 meters in height. To power the A5 DTM, Audi uses a V8 engine with an output of 340 kW (460 HP). The engine is mated to a 6-speed transmission, operated pneumatically via steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. the new gearbox lasts four times longer than before. Audi reckons it will hold for up to 24,000 kilometers.
Audi's A5 DTM comes equipped with Bosch MS 5.1 engine electronics, a new central display, Hankook tires and a 120-liter carbon fiber fuel tank.
The Audi A5 DTM is built upon a hybrid construction chassis and features a carbon-fiber body. The A5 DTM comes with a carbon fiber monocoque and steel cage for increased safety and rigidity. The oversized rear wing of the Audi A5 DTM has several benefits. It improves slipstream performance, and it's less sensitive to body contact.
Audi's A5 DTM will face a strong competition next year from the BMW M3 DTM and the Mercedes C Coupe AMG DTM. Mercedes will unveil their 2012 DTM racer tomorrow, at the Frankfurt auto show.
Watch the Audi A5 DTM on video below.
Audi A5 DTM promotional clip:
Audi A5 DTM driving scenes:
