First pictures: Audi A5 DTM 2012
Audi presented the 2012 specification A5 DTM at the Frankfurt International Motor Show IAA today.
The new Audi, called R17 at Audi Sport, conforms with the DTM new regulations set for introduction in the championship next year. The regulations means a lot more standardized parts, reducing costs as well as increasing safety.
“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,” said Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich, Head of Audi Motorsport.
The new carbon fibre monocoque and steel cage of the car are identical to all DTM vehicles, Audi, BMW and Mercedes, and are two of 50 standardized parts.
The free parts of the aerodynamics have also been reduced in order to reduce costs and make the cars less sensitive to contact.
“In the past, Audi has had very innovative solutions particularly in the area of aerodynamics in the DTM. Since these areas have been subjected to severe restrictions good detailed solutions will now be crucial to achieving advantages over the competition,” said Dr. Martin Mühlmeier, Head of Engineering at Audi Sport.
The engine sub-frame at the front and the transmission at the rear are identical for all DTM cars and limit the freedom of the engineers with respect to the suspension, which has to be mounted to these shared components.
In addition, steel as the material for the A-arms and the tube dimensions are specified. For the hub carrier, the regulations define the material and the production process to be used. A milled aluminum part with a minimum weight is prescribed. Furthermore, a strict provision in the regulations defines the wheel hubs and the rims for all entrants.
The new car measures 5.01 meters in length, 1.95 meters in width and 1.15 meters in eight. The engine is identical to the current, meaning a V8 with about 460 BHP, connected to a six-speed sequential gearbox with paddle shifters.
The R17 made its first roll out on the 29th of July this year, the first official test is scheduled for thursday this week together with BMW and Mercedes.
