Audi R8 Concept
An integral part of Audi's recent racing success found its way into the R8 V12 TDI concept, which made its world premiere at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show.
Audi R8 Concept
Audi's diesel racecars have won endurance races in the United States and around the world, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The V12 TDI concept puts a road-ready version of Audi’s track diesel into its R8 super car.
The R8 was introduced in 2007 with a 420-horsepower 4.2-liter gasoline V8. The V12 TDI concept uses a 6.0-liter V12 diesel. It produces 500 horsepower and, more significantly, a massive 737 pound-feet of torque.
Audi claims the diesel-powered R8 will reach 60 mph from a stop in just 4.2 seconds, and is capable of reaching a top speed of 205 mph. True to its frugal diesel roots, Audi predicts the V12 sports car will see fuel economy in the 24 mpg range in normal driving.
A “clean” diesel, the production version of the R8 V12 TDI would be emissions legal in all 50 states.
Though Audi was noncommittal, it's entirely possible that the R8 V12 TDI will make it to production, especially since cross-Deutschland rival BMW has announced plans to bring diesel-powered vehicles to North America.
Audi R8 Concept
What is known of Audi’s diesel plans is that a V6 turbodiesel version of the Audi Q7 SUV is scheduled to go on sale in the U.S. during calendar 2008.
Audi R8 Concept Pictures
Audi R8 Concept
Audi R8 Concept
Audi R8 Concept
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