When we brought you the still images of the Audi R8 V10, we could only dream of hearing that siren song of 5.2 liter V10 delight. Now we can. The forum fan-boys at AudiWorld discovered this video lurking in the fodder that is MySpace uploaded by someone named Dennis. Either Dennis is a marketing shill and we've been had by viral advertising, or he's got some serious explaining to do. In either case Audi R8 V10!

Those rumors about a 5.2-liter, 500 HP-plus V10 being installed in the Audi R8? Yeah, we can pretty much confirm those today. Check out these crystal-clear driveway photos coming from an anonymous tipster of the new and improved Audi supercar. We're told this is a pre-production mule being loaned out to trusted current R8 owners. In addition to two more cylinders, expect a revised front bumper, rear bumper, exhaust tips and side blades for the upgraded Überfahrzeug.

Having driven both the Audi R8 and the Audi Q7, we have to say that although we enjoy driving both, Iron Man Director and Producer Jon Favreau goes a little over the top talking about these two beautiful babies. Yes indeed folks, the theatrical release of Iron Man is just days away and the marketing machine is kicking into full swing. Since Audi is a major sponsor of the film, we get to see two different videos where the men in charge of the movie blab on about how great the cars are. Well, great for driving, but perhaps not for filming because apparently they couldn't get the Q7 to lock its brakes or do a burnout. Oh — and they couldn't destroy the R8 in the way they'd initially wanted to. Destroy an R8 in a huge conflagration? Not a chance if Audi and their big check have anything to say about it. Only they can do that to the R8. Double video action below the fold, and possible ending or alternate ending spoilers.

[Youtube and Youtube via WCF]

Stephane Ortelli was lucky to walk away, or perhaps we should say "limp away," from this horrific crash in Le Mans series racing at Monza today. The Courage Oreca racer driven by Ortelli was approaching the opening chicane when he went off the course and the aerodynamics on his car suddenly turned on him. A modern racer is designed to create such great downforce it is as though the car is being sucked to the ground. Unfortunately, when you lose that you can end up doing somersaults. As amazing as it is that Ortelli escaped without serious injury, it's even more impressive to see how Allan McNish was able to guide his Audi just out of the path of the out-of-control Oreca. We'd probably be too busy mouthing "There's no way that car is gonna hit us" to actually get out of the way. [YouTube via MaximumMotorsport]

What happens when you combine a BMW 6-series, Mercedes-Benz, Aston Martin DB9 and a hint of Audi R8? Well, you get the M-Zero, a conceptual design by Maël Oberkampf (and not officially BMW). It's supposed to represent a BMW "synthesis" between some of the luxury manufacturers out there, but it seems predominantly a BMW, most apparent by the badging. The Audi R8 reference comes because that is the look and feel the designer was going for with this design. It's kind of like getting Shakira's ass with Megan Fox's body and Eva Longoria's face.
[Tuvie]

Rumors have been circulating that Audi may be possibly considering a "baby R8" —but this ain't it. The current Audi TT is a fine looking machine, but it pales in comparison to its big brother, the R8. They both have a somewhat similar shape, but the R8 has those nifty "sideblades" and some other vents and scoops. In light of this, body kit makers Caractere decided to make a kit that attempts to make your Audi TT look like an R8. We thought it was one of those hypothetical styling kits that nobody would actually buy, but we were wrong.

What we have here is a TT with said "R8" kit available for your bidding pleasure on eBay. For the $45,000 buy-it-now price you get a 3.2-liter V6, S-tronic automatic, and Quattro. It's interesting, but we're not really interested unless they incorporate this faux-R8 kit with some sort of bi-motor or mid-engine setup.
[eBay via VWvortex]

Someone decided it was a good idea to give Jack, Zerin and the Speed:Sport:Life crew an Audi R8 and a Viper SRT-10 convertible for a weekend of tossing around MSR Houston. Magically, the cars returned in one piece (well, two pieces, technically). Just to be safe, the boys had expert advice from some racing professionals and even ran a few practice rounds in Zerin's yellow TT. The results are, as always, entertaining and enlightening. [Speed:Sport:Life]

We'd heard "Old Luxury" was pretty pissed over that whole turf war with Audi over luxury buyers since the Super Bowl. You remember, right? Yeah you do — that was when the Audi R8 dropped the horse head faux Bentley grille into "Old Luxury's" bed. Well, anyway, it looks like that hit they've had out there on the Audi brand has finally taken down one of their made men in Portugal. Yup, scratch one R8, paisan! Sure — it looks like an innocent traffic accident, but that's just what "Old Luxury" wants you to believe. All we know is Audi better watch themselves and their Le Mans R8 TDI next week at the New York Auto Show. Or at least get Iron Man in as a hired goombah to protect it. All we know is, we haven't been this upset since that R8 went up in flames a while back.

[via Quatro rodas e um volante!]

After the big Super Bowl blitzkrieg, we all kind of knew the media marketing on Iron Man would muscle it's way beyond mere trailers, and it just has. The culprit? Audi, of course. The multi-ringed brand has spent some serious Deutsche-marks to set up a mini-site for the movie that shows off the R8, the rest of the Audi lineup, some historical background on the brand all about the Vorsprung durch Technik and about three whole seconds of all-new footage from the new movie with some Audi hand-job action spliced with it. Whatever. We're still excited about the movie and everyone already knows how excited we already are for the Audi R8. Although we'd prefer they'd have used the "Iron Man Red" Audi R8 V12 TDI Le Mans we saw live in Geneva. Full press release below the jump.

„Iron Man" and Audi R8: Vorsprung durch Technik

* "Iron Man" opens in theaters around the world in early May 2008
* Audi campaign accompanies the product placement
* Technical details, backgrounds, history: www.audi.com/ironman

Robert Downey Jr. plays Tony Stark, the leading man in the Paramount and Marvel Studios movie version of "Iron Man". Head of a big industrial complex, he owes his super-powers to an indestructible, hi-tech suit of armor of his own design that has a variety of uses and earns him the title "Iron Man." When he's not wearing it, this billionaire technophile relies on his Audi R8. It matches Stark's super hero guise very well: The slits through which Iron Man views the world resemble the all-LED headlamps on the R8, Stark's artificial heart with its ring of lights recalls the sports car's exposed mid-engine and his immensely tough armor is matched by the Audi Space Frame, the high-strength aluminum structure on which this hi-tech automobile is built. The film's hero and his favored mode of transport both symbolize Audi's famous technical leadership claim: "Vorsprung durch Technik."

"The Audi R8 is the perfect car for Tony Stark," says Iron Man's director Jon Favreau. "It's a technical masterpiece, it's fast and safe - and it's the ultimate eye-catcher." Tony Stark delights in luxury; he's intelligent, demanding and a lover of life to the full. Naturally he utilizes his exceptional abilities for the good of mankind - when he takes on the personality of Iron Man, his super-hero alter ego. There has never been a comic-strip hero with such a deep-seated understanding of technology and the opportunities opened up by innovation and progressive ideas.

The attitudes that the leading character represents were one of the main reasons why Audi became involved in this production: interaction between the role, the movie as a whole and the product is the decisive factor in successful product placement. Michael Renz, Head of Central Marketing at Audi, says: "The character and lifestyle of Tony Stark tie in very well with the attributes of the Audi R8. And in any case, "Iron Man" is one of the world's best-known, never-aging super-heroes - an opportunity we were determined not to miss!"

But in reality the combination of automobile and screen hero has to be credible - actor Robert Downey Jr. sees it this way too. "I grew up with the Audi mystique. This carmaker has always been right in the forefront when it comes to technology, performance, innovation and safety. I see Tony and myself as worthy ambassadors for Audi - we're genuine fans of the make." Renz too regards this as an important precondition: "Unless the star of a production identifies with the brand, and the image of the leading role matches what Audi stands for, the connection is simply not credible enough. We're fortunate in this respect: Many Hollywood stars value Audi very highly, and are driving our cars in their private lives anyway."

Audi has another worthy ambassador on the cast list too: Tony Stark's assistant Virginia "Pepper" Potts, played by Gwyneth Paltrow, drives an Audi S5 in the movie. She is an intelligent, ambitious woman who knows exactly what she wants. The sporty dynamics and elegant finesse of the Audi S5 suit her character well. Her honest approach is evident as the plot progresses: She supports Tony Stark unhesitatingly even before he plunges into his fight against the evil forces of this world. As the chief executive of Stark Industries, a gigantic multinational armaments group, the billionaire demonstrates his ability as a business policymaker. His life changes abruptly, however, when he is kidnapped while launching one of his latest inventions in Afghanistan. The criminals intend to force him to build a weapon of immense destructive force.

Instead of this, Stark develops and builds a revolutionary metal suit of armor while in the kidnappers' clutches. With its aid he is able to escape and reach home again. His next move is to perfect his suit and start to combat what proves to be a conspiracy of global dimensions. Another loyal colleague in addition to Virginia "Pepper" Potts is Lieutenant Colonel James Rhodes ("Rhodey"), played by Terrence Howard.

This comedy drama, which is full of action and special effects, opens in theaters around the world in early May 2008, but fans and other interested people all over the world don't need to wait for the movie to reach their local theaters before immersing themselves in the world of "Iron Man." An Audi micro-site has been produced especially for this movie. On its complex home page the user can pay a virtual visit to Tony Stark's top-secret New York workshop. Two perspectives are available: Through the eyes of Tony Stark, trailers and background information on the movie can be called up and viewed. Alternatively the special "Iron Man Vision" infrared viewer can be used, for instance to explore the design details of the Audi R8 and A5. The micro-site also contains historical facts about Audi and the 'Iron Man' comic strip, which can be found in a virtual Audi R10 TDI racecar.

The micro-site goes online at www.audi.com/ironman on March 10, 2008.

"One Man. One Machine. One Mission." The online campaign starts with this motto alongside the micro-site. The key visual shows Iron Man with the Audi R8. This action-packed motif recalls a movie theater poster and is intended to draw Internet users' attention to the web site. The decision in favor of this theater-style campaign was a deliberate one, with the aim of strengthening the link between the Audi R8 and Tony Stark, alias Iron Man. In communication terms it is very different from regular Audi advertising. "We want to address a young movie-going public directly," says Michael Renz. Advertising measures are also being put into effect at Audi dealers, starting in March.

Early in April, communication measures in Germany will be stepped up, with outdoor advertising and movie theater trailers. A notable feature of the trailers is that they were produced especially for Audi and are made up of exclusive scenes from the movie and Audi road shots. All eleven trailers will be placed on the micro-site in succession by the time the movie reaches theaters in early May 2008.

Although the Audi R8 impressed the cast and the production team so much while the movie was being shot, director Jon Favreau found himself facing a slight problem as the story reached its climax. He had planned for the car to be used in a final scene by being involved in a dramatic collision with Iron Man's wicked adversary. This had to be omitted from the final cut, Favreau explains: "The crash just wasn't spectacular enough! Our stunt specialists did their best to turn the R8 over onto its roof, which would have given us a dramatic final scene, but they failed - the car clung to the road too well!"

It looks as if the Audi R8 had better stick to what it does best, even after a promising start to its acting career. One of the great Hollywood stars of the past could maybe have hammed this scene with the director's help, but not a car designed and hand-built according to Audi's famous "Vorsprung durch Technik" slogan. A car such as this guarantees top dynamic performance, technological leadership and, thanks to its quattro permanent all-wheel drive, clings firmly to the road. Never mind if a spectacular crash could save the world - it's simply too much to expect of an Audi R8 that's built to perform its task perfectly in every other way.

Another important role in "Iron Man" - apart from Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Terrence Howard and of course the Audi R8 - is played by Jeff Bridges. Jon Favreau is the director and the screenplay was written by Mark Fergus, Hawk Ostby, Art Marcum and Matt Holloway. The producers of "Iron Man" are Avi Arad and Kevin Feige, the executive producers Louis D'Esposito, Peter Billingsley, Jon Favreau, Stan Lee and David Maisel.

Audi has a long product placement tradition. Systematic placement of automobiles in movies is an important element in its communication strategy. Of course, all activity of this kind has to be in conformity with Audi's general brand strategy. This is why Audi chooses the projects carefully. Its contribution to the movie 'I, Robot' (2004) was spectacular: Will Smith drove the RSQ, which was especially designed for 'I, Robot' and in fact a futuristic design study for the Audi R8 now seen in 'Iron Man'. Cars from the brand with the four-ring emblem were also to be seen as "leading automobile actors" in John Frankenheimer's classic action movie 'Ronin' (with Jean Reno und Robert De Niro, 1998), and in 'The Insider' (with Russell Crowe, 1999), 'Mission Impossible II' (with Tom Cruise, 2000), 'The Mothman Prophecies' (with Richard Gere, 2002), 'About a Boy' (with Hugh Grant, 2002), Reese Witherspoon's 'Natural Blonde 2' (2003), 'Transporter 2' (Jason Statham, 2005) or 'The Bourne Ultimatum' (Matt Damon, 2007).

AUDI AG sold a total of 964,151 cars in 2007 and thus achieved its twelfth consecutive record year. Audi produces vehicles in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm (Germany), Györ (Hungary), Changchun (China) and Brussels (Belgium). At the end of 2007, production of the Audi A6 started in Aurangabad, India. The company is active in more than 100 markets worldwide. AUDI AG's wholly owned subsidiaries include Lamborghini S.p.A. in Sant'Agata Bolognese, Italy, and quattro GmbH in Neckarsulm. Audi employs more than 54,000 people worldwide, including 45,000 in Germany. The brand with the four rings invests more than € 2 billion each year in order to sustain the company's technological lead embodied in its "Vorsprung durch Technik" slogan. Audi plans to nearly double the number of models in its portfolio by 2015, from the 25 currently on offer to 40.

AUDI AG will present the complete results for the 2007 business year at its Annual Press Conference on March 11, 2008 in Ingolstadt.

We can't get enough of this Audi R8 V12 TDI Le Mans Concept. OK, so its not quite on the track or in showrooms just yet. And yes, it's an awfully brilliant "Brilliant Red" paint job on this oil-burning torque monster. However we imagine that when it does hit the streets with all that ground-pounding torque , the world might just spin backwards. Maybe that's why it's just sitting still for now. The globe needs time to brace itself for the impact. So much for diesels being Earth-friendly.

The Audi V12 TDI Le Mans looks a bit different under the Geneva spotlights than in the press shots, but the nonetheless bad child of the Audi stand still looks ravishing in crimson. The 12-cylinder TDI, producing 500 hp and and 737.56 lb-ft of torque is also a sexy beast of tubage and whirly parts. Its 0-to-62 time of just 4.2 seconds is a fine number. Though we're wondering how the boffins can keep the tires from powdering with peak torque at 1,750 RPM. Questions, questions.

With the Geneva Motor Show mere hours away, the reveals are coming fast and furious. Here's the latest from the multi-ringed brand — the Audi R8 V12 TDI LeMans. If you'll remember, they first revealed this oil-burning bad-ass at the Detroit Auto Show back in January. But now it'll get ready for the track. That's because this is apparently the first 12-cylinder diesel engine in a high-performance roadgoing sports car. So with a 6.0-liter diesel under the hood, this R8 concept car will generate around 500 HP and 737.56 lb-ft of torque. Yes, that's the same as the Audi Q7 V12 TDI that broke over the weekend. But did that look anything like this thing of beauty we have before us? And did that have a 0-to-62 time of just 4.2 seconds? And with this beautiful "Brilliant Red" paint? Didn't think so. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Outstanding Torque for the Top Class Audi R8 TDI Le Mans

Audi is presenting a revolution in the top class - the first 12-cylinder diesel engine in a high-performance roadgoing sports car. The V12 TDI with a displacement of six liters powers a concept car based on the Audi R8. This unit generates a huge 500 hp and 1,000 Newton-meters (737.56 lb-ft) of torque. Audi is writing a new chapter in diesel technology with this power unit. Equipped with the expertise that Audi has built up through its motor sport activities, the R8 TDI Le Mans in Brilliant Red embodies superb road handling, pioneering technology and fascinating design.

The V12 TDI is closely related to the engine in the Audi R10, the two-time Le Mans winner - so it catapults the Audi R8 into supercar terrain concerning performance too. It sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 4.2 seconds and its top speed is well over 300 km/h (186.41 mph). The peak torque, reached at only 1,750 rpm, paves the way for effortless acceleration that is unrivaled even at this level.

The new V12 TDI belongs to Audi's family of V engines but has the ideal included angle for this engine type of 60 degrees between cylinder banks. Its highlights include the new chain drive layout that includes the two newly developed high-pressure pumps for the common rail injection system.

Its sound is as thrilling as you'd expect in a sports car of this caliber. For all the subtle smoothness that typifies this design principle, the twelve-cylinder unit is full-bodied and equipped with energetic overtones that make no secret of its performance potential.

The Genes of the Winner

Thanks to their high performance and pulling power, all Audi TDI engines are ultra-dynamic sources of power. The brand has often enough demonstrated its sporty character in its production cars, especially the six- and eight-cylinder 3.0 TDI and 4.2 TDI. Audi has also been writing a new chapter in its success story on the racetrack since 2006. The diesel engine in the R10 sports prototype won its very first endurance race at Sebring, Florida, when it was pitted against an entire field of gasoline-engined challengers. But its most crucial victories were surely in 2006 and 2007 in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, when it simply outclassed the international elite.

The V12 TDI race engine in the R10 produces over 650 hp from a displacement of 5.5 liters, giving it the potential for a top speed as high as 330 km/h (205.05 mph) depending on the gear ratios. Its power and sturdiness immediately impressed both fans and experts, who were impressed by its restrained noise level. Unusual for a race engine, this powerful Audi diesel makes barely more than a whisper.

Long traditions of motor racing and production technology complement each other at Audi. The FSI engine of the R10's predecessor, the R8, captured five wins at Le Mans with a direct gasoline injection system. Audi is also looking to maximize the advantage by using the race-tested FSI principle in its production models. The latest examples of this are the V8 with high-revving concept in the RS 4 and the production version of the Audi R8.

The Drivetrain

The roadgoing version of the new V12 TDI is built at the Györ plant, in Hungary. And the R8 TDI Le Mans still has a massive 500 hp on tap. In developing the six-liter engine, it was a clear priority to integrate it into the current family of Audi V engines, of which many thousands of versions with 6, 8 and 10 cylinders have already been built - both gasoline and TDI.

Audi's engineers were in an ideal position to use their experience building the racing engine to develop the road version. Like the other power units in this range, the distance between cylinder bore axes on the V12 TDI is 90 mm (3.54 in.). Yet its included angle is 60 degrees, not 90 degrees. This means no free inertial forces or mass moments of inertia can occur with the V12. The results are refined in every respect.

The 83.0 mm (3.27 in.) bore and 91.4 mm (3.60 in.) stroke produce a total displacement of 5,934 cc - just like the 3.0 TDI. At only 684 mm (26.93 in.) long, this large diesel engine is very compact and just 166 mm (6.54 in.) longer than the V8 TDI. This compact length is key to accommodating the V12 in the mid-engined Audi R8.

The V12 TDI crankcase is made from gray cast iron with vermicular graphite - a high-tech material referred to as GJV-450 that is already used on the V6 and V8 TDI engines. GJV-450, made by a patented casting process, is about 40 percent more rigid and 100 percent more fatigue-resistant than gray cast iron. This enabled the developers to make its walls thinner, cutting its weight by around 15 percent compared with conventional gray cast iron.

The two cylinder heads are each made from three main elements. These are a base section made from a high-strength aluminum alloy incorporating the intake and exhaust ports, an oil-bearing upper section, and a reinforcing ladder frame supporting the two camshafts.

The valves are actuated by low-friction roller cam followers; the compression ratio is 16.0:1. Map-controlled swirl variation of the combustion air has been adopted from the V6 and V8 TDI engines. This produces permanently optimized swirl concerning both emissions and high performance.

Ultramodern Injection Technology

As is the case in the Audi V engines, the no-maintenance chain drive is mounted at the back of the engine, where it occupies little space. Its layout has changed on the new V12 TDI. The camshafts' sprocket engages in an intermediate gear via which two Simplex chains drive the camshafts. Two more chains drive the oil pump and the two high-pressure pumps actuate the common rail injection system.

The two new dual-piston high-pressure pumps form part of the common rail injection system supplied by specialty manufacturer Bosch. The two pumps build up a pressure of up to 2,000 bar in the rails. The piezo injectors with eight-hole nozzles have also been fundamentally revised.

The high pressure distributes the mixture optimally throughout the combustion chamber. The result is that the ignition process is faster, more homogeneous and more acoustically refined. The more efficient combustion process also increases power output, cuts consumption and reduces pollutant emissions.

The current generation of so-called inline injectors makes effective use of the piezo effect: piezo crystals expand in a fraction of a millisecond when an electrical voltage is applied. The number of injection processes per operating cycle can be varied across a wide range thanks to piezo technology - reaching as many as five fuel injection operations in the case of the V12 TDI.

As well as the main injection, pilot and post injections are possible. Pilot injections tone down the acoustic harshness of the combustion process. Retarded post injections are designed specifically to increase the temperature of the exhaust gas, promoting regeneration of the two standard particulate filters.

The two turbochargers are located on the outside of the engine's V, each of them supplying one bank of cylinders. Thanks to their variable turbine geometry, the full flow of exhaust gas always passes through the turbine, so the chargers respond slickly - even at low engine speeds - and operate very efficiently.

The two turbochargers, which generate up to 2.6 bar of boost pressure, play a crucial role in producing the huge torque of 1,000 Nm (737.56 lb-ft) that the V12 TDI maintains from 1,750 rpm to 3,000 rpm. In developing 368 kW (500 hp), the diesel achieves a specific output of 62.0 kW (84.3 hp) per liter displacement.

Two large intercoolers reduce the temperature of the compressed air. The V12 has a twin-pipe exhaust system with two particulate filters. The intake system is similar in structure with one air cleaner per cylinder bank, with an airflow meter behind it. Two control units, sharing the workload in a master/slave principle, manage events in the engine.

The Audi R8 TDI Le Mans already fulfills the Euro 6 emissions standard that is likely to take effect in 2014 and calls for sharply reduced nitrogen oxides. By also designing in ultra-precise fuel metering by the common rail system, Audi's engineers have made full use of current clean diesel technology.

The heart of the system is a special catalytic converter downstream of the oxidizing catalyst and the particulate filter. The second component in the system is an additional tank containing an aqueous urea solution. Small quantities of the solution, known as "AdBlue," are injected into the exhaust system. The hot exhaust gases break the solution down to form ammonia that splits the nitric oxides into nitrogen and water. The system remains effective for the entire service life of the vehicle.

The dynamic character of a sports car depends not just on its performance and torque; the transmission ratios have to be right too. In keeping with the character of a high-performance sports car with unbeatable torque potential, the transmission in the R8 TDI Le Mans has six manually operated gears.

The manual transmission is very compact in design. Together with the small-diameter double-plate clutch, this means it can be installed low down. The manual transmission has very short shift travel and utterly precise guiding of the shifter into the open gear lever gate. It is made from polished aluminum, has an agreeable feel and exquisite sports car looks.

Such a high-performance Audi also has quattro permanent all-wheel drive. In the case of this mid-engine sports car, power is distributed variably between the front and rear wheels from a starting ratio of 40:60 to optimize the handling.

The Design

The R8 TDI Le Mans with Brilliant Red bodywork looks even wider and more resolute than the core model. It shows its potential through its muscular proportions, accentuated wheel arches and even larger air apertures. The rhombus-pattern cover on the air inlets and outlets is the hallmark of Audi's sporty top models and a familiar feature of the current RS generation.

Typical of the side view of the R8 is the sideblade. Much wider in the bottom third, it visually accentuates the engine's position as well as acting as an enlarged air deflector.

The continuous aluminum spoiler lip that connects the front and rear diffusers with side air baffles below the enlarged sills also pays tribute to this version's highly developed dynamic talents.

And yet the R8 is unmistakable for its powerful, elegant basic proportions. The selective but always precise use of lines is another typical Audi characteristic, as is the curved arc of the roof. One new aspect is the glass roof of the passenger compartment with two large transparent sections. These, together with the glazed engine compartment behind, create a radically new formal element. The unmistakable NACA duct in the middle of the roof is a functional detail that is normally reserved for racing cars. Its ingenious shape accelerates the air drawn in here for the two cylinder banks of the V12 TDI engine.

The V12 TDI is displayed as the beating heart of this sports car, like a work of art inside a large showcase. Its look, underscored by the air deflectors located beneath the restyled rear glass lid, differs clearly from its production counterpart. The engine can even be seen after dark, when white light-emitting diodes illuminate the engine compartment - as on the production R8 version. This "showroom" can additionally be fully lined in genuine carbon fiber, for a particularly exclusive look.

The continuous line running from the front apron across the wheel arches and flanks to the tail end, then back down the other side, is one of the latest design hallmarks of the Audi brand. This "loop" naturally encompasses the air apertures, the headlights and the taillights.

Unmistakable Face by Day and Night

The passion expressed through the elaborate design of the lights is another typical Audi trait. Nor is anyone likely to overlook this Audi sports car from behind: the LED taillights have a three-dimensional look that can't be missed.

But the absolute highlight is the all-LED headlights of the study vehicle. With their lenses and reflectors, not only do these innovative light sources have a ground-breaking appearance, they also have an enormous functional advantage: LED light, with its color temperature of 6,000 Kelvin, resembles daylight much more closely than xenon or even halogen light. Better light means the driver will have much less fatigue when driving at night.

Ergonomic and Elegant

The interior's design is as sporty and exclusive as the exterior: the characteristic element here is the monoposto - an expansive arc running around the steering wheel and instruments, connecting the driver to the car. The interior consequently picks up on the dynamism of the R8 TDI Le Mans and gives it tactile expression in a form that is accessible the moment you climb in.

The three-spoke sport steering wheel of course remains the focal point of the car's controls. With a diameter of 365 mm (14.37 in.), it is both sportily compact and ergonomic in shape. The steering wheel rim has a flat lower edge. This is a further aspect of the auto racing feel in the Audi R8 TDI Le Mans, but one that also brings major functional benefits, facilitating entry and exit for the driver. The steering wheel is covered in fine Valcona leather, with a diecast magnesium core providing strength.

The start/stop button for the engine and the Drive Select switch with the Dynamic/ Sport/Race settings are arranged on the steering wheel. The latter controls the engine and transmission electronics as well as the magnetic ride dampeners in each of three different modes.

In Race mode, the instrument lighting changes from white to red. The navigation system shows a combined display with lap timer and navigation information for the racetrack being driven. Or supplementary information such as centrifugal force and boost pressure can be called up.

Concentrating on the essentials was the priority in the ergonomic arrangement of all Audi R8 versions. The most important consideration - particularly for high-speed driving - is short reach distances for all controls, to keep the time that the driver has only one hand on the steering wheel to a bare minimum. In typical Audi style the monitor is well within the field of view, and the elements of the MMI operating system are located directly below it.

Compared with the production version, the R8 TDI Le Mans's interior has much larger aluminum applications, especially around the center console. The many carbon fiber elements give the interior a decidedly sporty feel.

The R8's exceptional everyday practicality for a sports car is maintained in the study vehicle's spaciousness, even though the longer engine takes up more room. The two occupants have the generous wheelbase of 2.65 meters (8.69 ft.) to thank for the interior comfort. This means the driver and passenger will always be able to find their perfect seated position, whatever their build. The view is also very good for a mid-engine vehicle. Narrow A-posts optimize the field of view to the front and sides.

Light but Highly Rigid Body

The body of a sports car needs to be particularly light and rigid. Low weight permits superior road performance, and rigidity is the crucial starting point for an agile driving feel allied to high precision. The Audi Space Frame body, made from aluminum, provides the ideal basis for this.

Audi has more expertise than any other manufacturer worldwide in the design and production of vehicles based on aluminum technology, and has channeled its accumulated know-how into this area.

The entire bodyshell of the study car weighs just 210 kilograms (462.97 lbs.). In ASF technology, the body's supporting structure is made of extruded aluminum sections and die-castings. Aluminum panels are incorporated into this skeleton to form a positive connection and perform a load-bearing role. Each individual component of the ASF space frame is optimized for its specific task by the use of widely differing shapes and cross-sections, combining maximum stability with minimal weight. It adds up to a car that's particularly light and rigid, an outcome that can be felt in the R8's ultra-precise driving feel.

The aerodynamics experts at Audi have done their work so thoroughly on the study car that, as an added benefit of its elegant shape, the body actually generates downforce - unlike many other sports cars. This aids directional stability at high speeds. It is achieved partly by means of an extending rear spoiler that is much larger than on the production version, and also thanks to the fully clad diffuser underbody.

Two large-format diffuser apertures in the rear bumper demonstrate just how much aerodynamics dictate the shape of the study vehicle. The tailpipes of the exhaust system are located in pairs on the right and left above the diffuser apertures. The add-on, automatically extended rear spoiler also interacts with the air as it flows around the car. The extra downforce it provides increases the efficiency of the air intake generated by the aerodynamic design of the underbody and diffusers. At low speeds, the rear spoiler returns to its initial position.

Chassis

The precision chassis of the Audi R8 TDI Le Mans remains supremely in control of the sporty performance, but is capable of assuring relaxed driving pleasure over long distances too. The sports car is spontaneous and agile at obeying steering movements, always demonstrating exceptionally good driving safety. The suspension, with double wishbones at both the front and rear, is optimized for a neutral self-steering response and maximum ease of control.

The study car, too, has the innovative dampening technology known as Audi magnetic ride. This adapts the chassis characteristic to the profile of the road and the driver's style within milliseconds.

Ceramic Brakes with Extreme Reserves

A generously dimensioned brake system supplies the necessary braking force. It applies a total of 24 pistons to the four brake disks, combining excellent performance with minimal weight and high durability. The disks are made from carbon fiber reinforced ceramic, a material that has repeatedly proven its worth in the aviation and aerospace sectors. The basis is very hard, frictionally resistant silicon carbide, with its diamond-like crystalline structure. Embedded in it are high-strength carbon fibers that absorb the stresses occurring in the material. The intricate geometry of cooling ducts in the ventilated disks prevents extremely high temperatures. The ceramic brake disk ring is bolted by 10 spring-loaded elements to a stainless steel central element that acts as the connection with the wheel's hub.

The ceramic brakes are identifiable at a glance by the special red, six-piston monobloc aluminum calipers and the fixed calipers at the rear. The advantages of the ceramic brakes include a further reduction in weight of around 20 kilograms (44.09 lbs.), which in this case improves the handling characteristics and comfort. The high abrasion resistance permits an operating life of up to 300,000 kilometers (186,411 miles). Their key strength, however, is their ability to withstand very high loads. Even on the racetrack, for example, the ceramic brakes always maintain their full reserve performance.

Vorsprung durch Technik: Diesel Milestones from Audi

Audi has reached another milestone in diesel technology with the new V12 TDI. The brand with the four rings has been performing vital pioneering work in this area for the past three decades. The first TDI auto engine made its debut in 1989. The 2.5 liter five-cylinder power unit developed 88 kW (120 hp) and 261 Nm, catapulting diesel driving into an entirely new dimension.

This was followed in 1994 by a development version generating 103 kW (140 hp). This engine was optionally available with all-wheel drive - the first TDI quattro model. A new four-cylinder diesel appeared at that time in the Audi 100 and Audi 80, the 1.9 TDI developing 66 kW (90 hp) that has now become legendary.

At the end of 1995 the output of this four-cylinder unit rose to 85 kW (115 hp) with the advent of pump-injector fuel injection. Slightly more than one year later, at the start of 1997, the world's first 2.5 V6 TDI appeared.

With four valves per cylinder, it achieved an output of 110 kW (150 hp), and its top speed of 220 km/h (136.70 mph) made the Audi A8 the fastest production diesel on the market. The first eight-cylinder TDI followed in 1999 - a V8 engine with a 3.3 liter capacity. The 3.0 TDI made its debut early in 2004 as the first V6 diesel with inline piezo injectors in the common rail system.

The 4.2 liter TDI launched in the A8 in 2005 is currently at the vanguard of Audi's TDI range. One in three A8 buyers in Germany chose this V8 engine. The next logical step was to make the V8 TDI available in the Audi Q7 in summer 2007.

With extremely clean, ultra-low emission technology, Audi is continuing its tradition of leadership in diesel engine technology. In 1989 it was the Ingolstadt brand that developed direct injection technology. Since then the diesel engine has become around 30 percent more efficient.

The Euro 4 European emission standard has reduced particulate emissions for cars by 93 percent. Long before it came into force, Audi had models on the market that met this standard, even without a particulate filter. And the brand will be offering the world's cleanest diesel engines in production vehicles in 2008. The TDI engines with the ultra-low emission system will be the first in the world to meet the forthcoming EU 6 emission standard as well as the toughest known statutory limits that apply in the U.S.

The equipment and specifications stated herein refer to the model line offered for sale in Germany. Errors and omissions excepted.

You have to respect a guy who owns an expensive high-performance car and isn't afraid to drive on salty winter roads. Locking your supercar in the garage for the winter just because you don't want it to get dirty deprives you of enjoying the most fun driving conditions of the whole year. There's snowy roads, icy roads, and then theres wet-'n-salty roads! Ok, so your typical Beverly Hills supercar owner wouldn't dream of ever driving in anything worse than partly cloudy conditions. But in Mother Russia, who cares?! Go ahead and drive your Audi R8 in the winter! It's got Quattro, use it! Abuse it! Can't find an empty parking lot to hoon around in? Do donuts in the middle of a public street! Oncoming traffic? In Russia, traffic stops for YOU!

Regard for public safety is on notice.
[YouTube]

Here's the full Iron Man Super Bowl commercial we showed the teaser shot from on Friday in all of it's auto-loving glory. See the Audi R8...just sitting there. See the Saleen S7...just sitting there. See the Cobra...just sitting there. See...umm...the Tesla Roadster...yeah, you get the picture. Well, whatever works for Tony Stark, ya know? Remember to follow along with the rest of our automotive Super Bowl commercial coverage once your done with your fill of Marvel madness.

Here it is, hours before Audi's "Truth In Engineering" Super Bowl commercial is supposed to air before hundreds of millions of Super Bowl viewers this evening. The commercial's filled with all the tinges of the "Godfather" we were told to expect when Audi's Scott Keogh said the automaker with many rings would be going a little bit more "West Coast" in their marketing of luxury. So go ahead and watch as Audi puts "Old Luxury" on notice with the Audi R8. Remember to check out the rest of our automotive Super Bowl commercial fun as we get more of the crazy car ads up throughout the night — especially as we'll probably be seeing the Audi R8 once more this evening in the Iron Man Super Bowl commercial.


[via Truth In Engineering]

UPDATE: The official Iron Man Super Bowl commercial! Apparently it's not just automakers like Hyundai and Chrysler with money to burn this Super Bowl Ad Watch weekend. Nope, it's also the movie industry — it looks like Iron Man will be getting some love in a commercial airing this Sunday during the big game. Apparently, judging by this screen capture of the ad in question, we'll get some shots of Tony Stark spending some time testing his suit in a garage filled with all sorts of hot automobiles. We already knew about the Audi R8, but apparently Stark's also got himself a Cobra, a Saleen S7 and lookie-here, a Tesla roadster. Nice job, Stark — now we know what the "Whitestar" project really was all about, don't we? That's right — a hybrid powertrain for the Iron Man booster rockets. We knew it. Anyway, we'll have the official commercial up here online just as soon as it airs this weekend to add to the original Iron Man commercial — just follow along at our Super Bowl Ad Watch tag and feel free to hit the jump to make the shot above bigger than life.

Here are the first shots of the Audi R8 with all of that oilburning V12 TDi goodness you've been waiting for. Confirming the well supported rumors that we heard, the Audi R8 V12 TDI is all the power with slightly less of the petroleum depletion. As we thought, the V12 displaces six liters and produces 500 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque while still achieving a mileage of nearly 23 MPG (US/Highway). Below is the press release, which required us to listen to Bryan Adams to get to you.

Audi R8 V12 TDI concept

Audi is presenting a revolution in the top class at the Detroit Auto Show 2008 - the first 12-cylinder diesel engine in a high-performance roadgoing sports car. The V12 TDI with a displacement of six liters powers a concept car based on the Audi R8. This unit generates a huge 500 hp and 1,000 Newton-meters (737.56 lb-ft) of torque. Audi is writing a new chapter in diesel technology with this power unit. Equipped with the expertise that Audi has built up through its motor sport activities, the R8 V12 TDI in matt "Grace Silver" embodies superb road handling, pioneering technology and fascinating design.

The V12 TDI is closely related to the engine in the Audi R10, the two-time
Le Mans winner - so it catapults the Audi R8 into supercar terrain concerning performance too. It sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 4.2 seconds and its top speed is well over 300 km/h (186.41 mph). The peak torque, reached at only 1,750 rpm, paves the way for effortless acceleration that is unrivaled even at this level.

The new V12 TDI belongs to Audi's family of V engines but has the ideal included angle for this engine type of 60 degrees between cylinder banks. Its highlights include the new chain drive layout that includes the two newly developed high-pressure pumps for the common rail injection system.

Its sound is as thrilling as you'd expect in a sports car of this caliber. For all the subtle smoothness that typifies this design principle, the twelve-cylinder unit is full-bodied and equipped with energetic overtones that make no secret of its performance potential.

The Genes of the Winner

Thanks to their high performance and pulling power, all Audi TDI engines are ultra-dynamic sources of power. The brand has often enough demonstrated its sporty character in its production cars, especially the six- and eight-cylinder
3.0 TDI and 4.2 TDI. Audi has also been writing a new chapter in its success story on the racetrack since 2006. The diesel engine in the R10 sports prototype won its very first endurance race at Sebring, Florida, when it was pitted against an entire field of gasoline-engined challengers. But its most crucial victories were surely in 2006 and 2007 in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, when it simply outclassed the international elite.

The V12 TDI race engine in the R10 produces over 650 hp from a displacement of 5.5 liters, giving it the potential for a top speed as high as 330 km/h
(205.05 mph) depending on the gear ratios. Its power and sturdiness immediately impressed both fans and experts, who were impressed by its restrained noise level. Unusual for a race engine, this powerful Audi diesel makes barely more than a whisper.

Long traditions of motor racing and production technology complement each other at Audi. The FSI engine of the R10's predecessor, the R8, captured five wins at Le Mans with a direct gasoline injection system. Audi is also looking to maximize the advantage by using the race-tested FSI principle in its production models. The latest examples of this are the V8 with high-revving concept in the RS 4 and the production version of the Audi R8.

The Drivetrain

The roadgoing version of the new V12 TDI is built at the Györ plant, in Hungary. And the R8 V12 TDI still has a massive 500 hp on tap. In developing the six-liter engine, it was a clear priority to integrate it into the current family of Audi V engines, of which many thousands of versions with 6, 8 and 10 cylinders have already been built - both gasoline and TDI.

Audi's engineers were in an ideal position to use their experience building the racing engine to develop the road version. Like the other power units in this range, the distance between cylinder bore axes on the V12 TDI is 90 mm (3.54 in.). Yet its included angle is 60 degrees, not 90 degrees. This means no free inertial forces or mass moments of inertia can occur with the V12. The results are refined in every respect.

The 83.0 mm (3.27 in.) bore and 91.4 mm (3.60 in.) stroke produce a total displacement of 5,934 cc - just like the 3.0 TDI. At only 684 mm (26.93 in.) long, this large diesel engine is very compact and just 166 mm (6.54 in.) longer than the V8 TDI. This compact length is key to accommodating the V12 in the mid-engined Audi R8.

The V12 TDI crankcase is made from gray cast iron with vermicular graphite - a high-tech material referred to as GJV-450 that is already used on the V6 and V8 TDI engines. GJV-450, made by a patented casting process, is about 40 percent more rigid and 100 percent more fatigue-resistant than gray cast iron. This enabled the developers to make its walls thinner, cutting its weight by around
15 percent compared with conventional gray cast iron.

The two cylinder heads are each made from three main elements. These are a base section made from a high-strength aluminum alloy incorporating the intake and exhaust ports, an oil-bearing upper section, and a reinforcing ladder frame supporting the two camshafts.

The valves are actuated by low-friction roller cam followers; the compression ratio is 16.0:1. Map-controlled swirl variation of the combustion air has been adopted from the V6 and V8 TDI engines. This produces permanently optimized swirl concerning both emissions and high performance.

Ultramodern Injection Technology

As is the case in the Audi V engines, the no-maintenance chain drive is mounted at the back of the engine, where it occupies little space. Its layout has changed on the new V12 TDI. The camshafts' sprocket engages in an intermediate gear via which two Simplex chains drive the camshafts. Two more chains drive the oil pump and the two high-pressure pumps actuate the common rail injection system.

The two new dual-piston high-pressure pumps form part of the common rail injection system supplied by specialty manufacturer Bosch. The two pumps build up a pressure of up to 2,000 bar in the rails. The piezo injectors with eight-hole nozzles have also been fundamentally revised.

The high pressure distributes the mixture optimally throughout the combustion chamber. The result is that the ignition process is faster, more homogeneous and more acoustically refined. The more efficient combustion process also increases power output, cuts consumption and reduces pollutant emissions.

The current generation of so-called inline injectors makes effective use of the piezo effect: piezo crystals expand in a fraction of a millisecond when an electrical voltage is applied. The number of injection processes per operating cycle can be varied across a wide range thanks to piezo technology - reaching as many as five fuel injection operations in the case of the V12 TDI.

As well as the main injection, pilot and post injections are possible. Pilot injections tone down the acoustic harshness of the combustion process. Retarded post injections are designed specifically to increase the temperature of the exhaust gas, promoting regeneration of the two standard particulate filters.

The two turbochargers are located on the outside of the engine's V, each of them supplying one bank of cylinders. Thanks to their variable turbine geometry, the full flow of exhaust gas always passes through the turbine, so the chargers respond slickly - even at low engine speeds - and operate very efficiently.

The two turbochargers, which generate up to 2.6 bar of boost pressure, play a crucial role in producing the huge torque of 1,000 Nm (737.56 lb-ft) that the
V12 TDI maintains from 1,750 rpm to 3,000 rpm. In developing 368 kW
(500 hp), the diesel achieves a specific output of 62.0 kW (84.3 hp) per liter displacement.

Two large intercoolers reduce the temperature of the compressed air. The V12 has a twin-pipe exhaust system with two particulate filters. The intake system is similar in structure with one air cleaner per cylinder bank, with an airflow meter behind it. Two control units, sharing the workload in a master/slave principle, manage events in the engine.

The Audi R8 V12 TDI concept already fulfills the Euro 6 emissions standard that is likely to take effect in 2014 and calls for sharply reduced nitrogen oxides. By also designing in ultra-precise fuel metering by the common rail system, Audi's engineers have made full use of current clean diesel technology.

The heart of the system is a special catalytic converter downstream of the oxidizing catalyst and the particulate filter. The second component in the system is an additional tank containing an aqueous urea solution. Small quantities of the solution, known as "AdBlue," are injected into the exhaust system. The hot exhaust gases break the solution down to form ammonia that splits the nitric oxides into nitrogen and water. The system remains effective for the entire service life of the vehicle.

The dynamic character of a sports car depends not just on its performance and torque; the transmission ratios have to be right too. In keeping with the character of a high-performance sports car with unbeatable torque potential, the transmission in the R8 V12 TDI has six manually operated gears.

The manual transmission is very compact in design. Together with the small-diameter double-plate clutch, this means it can be installed low down. The manual transmission has very short shift travel and utterly precise guiding of the shifter into the open gear lever gate. It is made from polished aluminum, has an agreeable feel and exquisite sports car looks.

Such a high-performance Audi also has quattro permanent all-wheel drive. In the case of this mid-engine sports car, power is distributed variably between the front and rear wheels from a starting ratio of 40:60 to optimize the handling.

The Design

The R8 V12 TDI concept with matt "Grace Silver" bodywork looks even wider and more resolute than the core model. It shows its potential through its muscular proportions, accentuated wheel arches and even larger air apertures. The rhombus-pattern cover on the air inlets and outlets is the hallmark of Audi's sporty top models and a familiar feature of the current RS generation.

Typical of the side view of the R8 is the sideblade. Much wider in the bottom third, it visually accentuates the engine's position as well as acting as an enlarged air deflector.

The continuous aluminum spoiler lip that connects the front and rear diffusers with side air baffles below the enlarged sills also pays tribute to this version's highly developed dynamic talents.

And yet the R8 is unmistakable for its powerful, elegant basic proportions. The selective but always precise use of lines is another typical Audi characteristic, as is the curved arc of the roof. One new aspect is the glass roof of the passenger compartment with two large transparent sections. These, together with the glazed engine compartment behind, create a radically new formal element. The unmistakable NACA duct in the middle of the roof is a functional detail that is normally reserved for racing cars. Its ingenious shape accelerates the air drawn in here for the two cylinder banks of the V12 TDI engine.

The V12 TDI is displayed as the beating heart of this sports car, like a work of art inside a large showcase. Its look, underscored by the air deflectors located beneath the restyled rear glass lid, differs clearly from its production counterpart. The engine can even be seen after dark, when white light-emitting diodes illuminate the engine compartment - as on the production R8 version. This "showroom" can additionally be fully lined in genuine carbon fiber, for a particularly exclusive look.

The continuous line running from the front apron across the wheel arches and flanks to the tail end, then back down the other side, is one of the latest design hallmarks of the Audi brand. This "loop" naturally encompasses the air apertures, the headlights and the taillights.

Unmistakable Face by Day and Night

The passion expressed through the elaborate design of the lights is another typical Audi trait. Nor is anyone likely to overlook this Audi sports car from behind: the LED taillights have a three-dimensional look that can't be missed.

But the absolute highlight is the all-LED headlights of the study vehicle. With their lenses and reflectors, not only do these innovative light sources have a ground-breaking appearance, they also have an enormous functional advantage: LED light, with its color temperature of 6,000 Kelvin, resembles daylight much more closely than xenon or even halogen light. Better light means the driver will have much less fatigue when driving at night.

Ergonomic and Elegant

The interior's design is as sporty and exclusive as the exterior: the characteristic element here is the monoposto - an expansive arc running around the steering wheel and instruments, connecting the driver to the car. The interior consequently picks up on the dynamism of the R8 V12 TDI concept and gives it tactile expression in a form that is accessible the moment you climb in.

The three-spoke sport steering wheel of course remains the focal point of the car's controls. With a diameter of 365 mm (14.37 in.), it is both sportily compact and ergonomic in shape. The steering wheel rim has a flat lower edge. This is a further aspect of the auto racing feel in the Audi R8 V12 TDI, but one that also brings major functional benefits, facilitating entry and exit for the driver. The steering wheel is covered in fine Valcona leather, with a diecast magnesium core providing strength.

The start/stop button for the engine and the Drive Select switch with the Dynamic/ Sport/Race settings are arranged on the steering wheel. The latter controls the engine and transmission electronics as well as the magnetic ride dampeners in each of three different modes.

In Race mode, the instrument lighting changes from white to red. The navigation system shows a combined display with lap timer and navigation information for the racetrack being driven. Or supplementary information such as centrifugal force and boost pressure can be called up.

Concentrating on the essentials was the priority in the ergonomic arrangement of all Audi R8 versions. The most important consideration - particularly for high-speed driving - is short reach distances for all controls, to keep the time that the driver has only one hand on the steering wheel to a bare minimum. In typical Audi style the monitor is well within the field of view, and the elements of the MMI operating system are located directly below it.

Compared with the production version, the R8 V12 TDI concept's interior has much larger aluminum applications, especially around the center console. The many carbon fiber elements give the interior a decidedly sporty feel.

The R8's exceptional everyday practicality for a sports car is maintained in the study vehicle's spaciousness, even though the longer engine takes up more room. The two occupants have the generous wheelbase of 2.65 meters (8.69 ft.) to thank for the interior comfort. This means the driver and passenger will always be able to find their perfect seated position, whatever their build. The view is also very good for a mid-engine vehicle. Narrow A-posts optimize the field of view to the front and sides.

Light but Highly Rigid Body

The body of a sports car needs to be particularly light and rigid. Low weight permits superior road performance, and rigidity is the crucial starting point for an agile driving feel allied to high precision. The Audi Space Frame body, made from aluminum, provides the ideal basis for this.

Audi has more expertise than any other manufacturer worldwide in the design and production of vehicles based on aluminum technology, and has channeled its accumulated know-how into this area.

The entire bodyshell of the study car weighs just 210 kilograms (462.97 lbs.). In ASF technology, the body's supporting structure is made of extruded aluminum sections and die-castings. Aluminum panels are incorporated into this skeleton to form a positive connection and perform a load-bearing role. Each individual component of the ASF space frame is optimized for its specific task by the use of widely differing shapes and cross-sections, combining maximum stability with minimal weight. It adds up to a car that's particularly light and rigid, an outcome that can be felt in the R8's ultra-precise driving feel.

The aerodynamics experts at Audi have done their work so thoroughly on the study car that, as an added benefit of its elegant shape, the body actually generates downforce - unlike many other sports cars. This aids directional stability at high speeds. It is achieved partly by means of an extending rear spoiler that is much larger than on the production version, and also thanks to the fully clad diffuser underbody.

Two large-format diffuser apertures in the rear bumper demonstrate just how much aerodynamics dictate the shape of the study vehicle. The tailpipes of the exhaust system are located in pairs on the right and left above the diffuser apertures. The add-on, automatically extended rear spoiler also interacts with the air as it flows around the car. The extra downforce it provides increases the efficiency of the air intake generated by the aerodynamic design of the underbody and diffusers. At low speeds, the rear spoiler returns to its initial position.

Chassis

The precision chassis of the Audi R8 V12 TDI concept remains supremely in control of the sporty performance, but is capable of assuring relaxed driving pleasure over long distances too. The sports car is spontaneous and agile at obeying steering movements, always demonstrating exceptionally good driving safety. The suspension, with double wishbones at both the front and rear, is optimized for a neutral self-steering response and maximum ease of control.

The study car, too, has the innovative dampening technology known as Audi magnetic ride. This adapts the chassis characteristic to the profile of the road and the driver's style within milliseconds.

Ceramic Brakes with Extreme Reserves

A generously dimensioned brake system supplies the necessary braking force. It applies a total of 24 pistons to the four brake disks, combining excellent performance with minimal weight and high durability. The disks are made from carbon fiber reinforced ceramic, a material that has repeatedly proven its worth in the aviation and aerospace sectors. The basis is very hard, frictionally resistant silicon carbide, with its diamond-like crystalline structure. Embedded in it are high-strength carbon fibers that absorb the stresses occurring in the material. The intricate geometry of cooling ducts in the ventilated disks prevents extremely high temperatures. The ceramic brake disk ring is bolted by 10 spring-loaded elements to a stainless steel central element that acts as the connection with the wheel's hub.

The ceramic brakes are identifiable at a glance by the special red, six-piston monobloc aluminum calipers and the fixed calipers at the rear. The advantages of the ceramic brakes include a further reduction in weight of around 20 kilograms (44.09 lbs.), which in this case improves the handling characteristics and comfort. The high abrasion resistance permits an operating life of up to 300,000 kilometers (186,411 miles). Their key strength, however, is their ability to withstand very high loads. Even on the racetrack, for example, the ceramic brakes always maintain their full reserve performance.

Vorsprung durch Technik: Diesel Milestones from Audi

Audi has reached another milestone in diesel technology with the new V12 TDI. The brand with the four rings has been performing vital pioneering work in this area for the past three decades. Audi premiered the world's first five-cylinder diesel engine in the Audi 100 in 1978. The first TDI auto engine made its debut in 1989 in the successor model. The 2.5 liter five-cylinder power unit developed 88 kW (120 hp) and 261 Nm, catapulting diesel driving into an entirely new dimension.

This was followed in 1994 by a development version generating 103 kW (140 hp). This engine was optionally available with all-wheel drive - the first TDI quattro model. A new four-cylinder diesel appeared at that time in the Audi 100 and Audi 80, the 1.9 TDI developing 66 kW (90 hp) that has now become legendary.

At the end of 1995 the output of this four-cylinder unit rose to 85 kW (115 hp) with the advent of pump-injector fuel injection. Slightly more than one year later, at the start of 1997, the world's first 2.5 V6 TDI appeared.

With four valves per cylinder, it achieved an output of 110 kW (150 hp), and its top speed of 220 km/h (136.70 mph) made the Audi A8 the fastest production diesel on the market. The first eight-cylinder TDI followed in 1999 - a V8 engine with a 3.3 liter capacity. The 3.0 TDI made its debut early in 2004 as the first V6 diesel with inline piezo injectors in the common rail system.

The 4.2 liter TDI launched in the A8 in 2005 is currently at the vanguard of Audi's TDI range. One in three A8 buyers in Germany chose this V8 engine. The next logical step was to make the V8 TDI available in the Audi Q7 in summer 2007.

With extremely clean, ultra-low emission technology, Audi is continuing its tradition of leadership in diesel engine technology. In 1989 it was the Ingolstadt brand that developed direct injection technology. Since then the diesel engine has become around 30 percent more efficient.

The Euro 4 European emission standard has reduced particulate emissions for cars by 93 percent. Long before it came into force, Audi had models on the market that met this standard, even without a particulate filter. And the brand will be offering the world's cleanest diesel engines in production vehicles in 2008. The TDI engines with the ultra-low emission system will be the first in the world to meet the forthcoming EU 6 emission standard as well as the toughest known statutory limits that apply in the U.S.

What does it really matter what Japanese automotive journalists think is the Japanese Car of the Year, or what the European journalists think is the European Car of the Year? Who even cars what Motor Trend says is their Car of the Year? We want to know what Playboy thinks. LBJ said it best, "So goes Playboy, so goes the nation." The venerable Audi R8 is the lad's mag's pick for this year's top ride, along with some selections in a few other random categories. The full list below the jump:

Playboy's Cars of the Year Best Luxury Sports Coupe: Maserati Gran Turismo Smartest Purchase - Smart Fortwo Best Sports Sedan - Cadillac CTS Best SUV - Land Rover LR2 Best Crossover - Buick Enclave Best Convertible - BMW 335i Best Earth Day Car - Mercedes Benz E320 Bluetec Best Pint Size Performance - Volvo C30 CAR OF THE YEAR - AUDI R8 [Playboy]

The automotive industry is controlled by a bunch of old grey-haired men sitting around board room tables in Germany or begging on a Detroit street corner because their homes are worth the same as a cardboard box. Oh yea...let's not forget Japan (that's for you Wert). These elderly men are the authorities in the major car corporations and when they say something, albeit important or not, every car blog and magazine not only runs with it but pimps it out until the next guy says something different. If you haven't figured this out yet, go read DUB Magazine.

Take, for example, the recent news out from Quattro GmbH. Earlier this summer, several R8 mules were catching fire while under testing near or on the Nürburgring. The roll cages and testing habits immediately indicated that these R8s were the prototypes for what we will soon be calling the RS8.

OMGHI2 to the internet rumor mill as we at Fast Lane Daily like to call it. Quattro GmbH director Wener Frowein recently revealed the mules that went up in flames were packing the same V10 twin turbo'd engines that are found on the next-gen RS6. Ha. I doubt it. I may go out on a limb here but...the interwebs once again took the bait. I don't have much of a reputation in the automotive world and I undoubtedly never will - but what I do have a passion cars and a love for Audis.

After one car goes up in flames, especially a very expensive mule that cost the manufacturer hundreds of thousands of dollars to produce and test, you better believe there won't be a second, similar "accident." For a few mules to go up in flames, I highly doubt they all had the same engine. From what I understand, after a bit of digging, at least one of those R8s that bit the bullet had a W12 engine. When Audi or any other manufacturer tests vehicles, no vehicle is the same until late in the testing/production cycle. How many times have we seen pre-production press cars with different bits and pieces?

Audi threw some misinformation to the media, and like the rabid dogs we are for the latest news, we bit. I don't see the RS8 coming with a V10 based off the FSi RS4 motor. Audi likes to push the limits with their upper-end cars; a few simple design changes won't cut it for their exotic sports car. Being that I have no reputation to worry about, I'm going to take my chances by saying you should expect the RS8 to have anything but a naturally- aspirated V10. With the new B8 S4 being turbocharged, do you really think Audi won't go all out on the RS8? Times are changing — don't believe everything you read - even here once in a while. – J.F. Musial

In addition to being a producer for Fast Lane Daily and the king of getting things done "that need to get done ASAP" J.F. Musial is also a certified Germanophile.

For those who find the stock Audi R8 to be a little on the heavy and slow side, Audi tuners PPI have stepped up to create the PPI R8, which is set to debut at the Essen Motor Show this December according to the folks at World Car Fans. Exterior enhancements come in the form of a new carbon fiber aerodynamics kit with a larger and meaner looking front air dam and a set of magnesium wheels that lower weight. On the inside, the car comes with a new exhaust system, air filter and engine management system good for a boost to 460 horsepower over the stock 420 horsepower. This results in a top speed just shy of 190-mph for the four-ringed racer. Full press release below the jump.

The PPI R8 and PPI R8 Razor - automobile lifestyle in carbon fibre

With the launching of the R8, Audi heats up against rivals Porsche, Ferrari and Bentley vigorously providing stiff competition. The Swabian, German tuners PPI Automotive Design GmbH, customize Audi's flagship sportscar by stoking up the fire with even more coal going that extra mile by providing an enhanced look combined with improved driving dynamics. A wind tunnel-tested aerodynamic kit of carbon fibre in combination with a performance enhancement and special lightweight magnesium wheels in 19-inch dimensions provides measurably improved appearance whether on the race track or the elegant promenade of the elite jet set.

Optimised performance for better resilience and increased driving pleasure

The stage 1 kit produces an increase power output of the original motor from 309kw/420hp to 348kw/460hp and increases torque from 430Nm/317lb-ft to 465Nm/343lbs-ft. A performance kit with durable components designed by PPI consists of corrosion resistant stainless steel sport rear muffler with throttle system. Just beginning at low-end torque, the resulting sound signals pure power, but with high speeds one experiences an even more imposing sound. Matched to this is a complete optimised engine management plus sport air filter providing the unit with extra breathing abilities. Results are a top speed of 305 km/h and sprinting from 0-100 km/h in only 4,4 seconds; a two-tenths decrease versus standard production.

PPI aerodynamics: continued further development in carbon fibre

Without being overstated, PPI's approach to the R8 was to retain the standard series design, with the addition of PPI developed aerodynamics. All PPI aerodynamics for the R8 are made of carbon fibre. This material is commonly used in motor sports reducing general weight yet simultaneously increasing sturdiness. This material is already featured in the Audi base model. PPI consequently takes a further step applying carbon fibre as the main component with highest quality for its entire car body material. Furthermore, PPI production carbon fibre parts are available in glossy or matte finish. The PPI aerodynamics package includes a lift reducing front lip spoiler. This more aggressive front air damn is designed to channel air to the front brakes, and cut through the air. In addition, the PPI designed, front bumper air intake "cartridges" were created for OEM fitting, and for improved air ventilation of the front radiator with separate air channel for brake cooling. Side sills sedate air inflow between the axles and provide this vehicle with a sporty and aggressive look even when standing still. It's lateral appearance is completed with side blades in carbon fibre matte finish as standard production series offers carbon fibre glossy only. The diffuser with integrated PPI-designed air channels for exhaust pipe cooling stabilizes the rear with extra downforce and directional stability. The new double-sided rear grill deflects engine heat and exhaust system outwards and flanks the middle PPI rear plate. Rear spoiler with its adjustable wing increases downforce on the rear axle and completes the sporty elegant look.

PPI MAG9: the lightweight wheel from PPI

The new PPI MAG9 wheel design characterises the connection of high technical demands to sporty elegance. The two-part magnesium wheel with nine spokes and a wheel rim of carbon fibre commands not only by its exclusive look, but also through its outstanding craftsmanship setting new benchmark standards in the Audi tuning arena. The offered PPI MAG9 comes in dimension 9 x 19 front and 11 x 19 rear. Through the use of ultra light material magnesium resulting in reduction of unsprung mass, acceleration as well as deceleration and handling are distinctly improved. Weighing a mere 7,8 kg for front axle rims and 8,2 kg for rear axle rims, the PPI wheel are absolute champions in the lightweight arena. Optimal tires developed for the PPI R8 Razor in cooperation with Michelin are the supplied Michelin Pilot Sport Cup in dimensions 235/35 ZR19 (front) and 305/30 ZR19 (rear).

Ideal interior engineering

To complete the exclusive enhancements of the R8, PPI offers extensive modifications in materials and parts to the original interior. PPI offers handbrake, door entry threshold plates and middle instrument panel in carbon fibre. The technical highlight of the interior is the new PPI designed ergonomic steering wheel (available with Carbon Fibre sections) with additional interface controls for its driving dynamical program. Offered on special request is a personalized floor mat set furnished with leather trim. Also available is complete hand crafted precision leather, suede, alcantara upholstery from our in-house saddlers. [World Car Fans]

Yes, it would appear that's an Audi R8 that's just burst into flames. No, we don't know exactly why. Yes, one of us is very, very, very sad. Although we remember a diesel V10 mule going up in flames earlier this year. Any connection? Again, we've no clue. But feel free to walk through these shots below to figure it out yourselves — if there's anything left to discern any facts from. [via R8Talk.com]