Audi has announced plans to send a filter-equipped diesel car to participate in next year's Le Mans 24 hours event.

The R10 vehicle will have a 5.5-litre, 12-cylinder twin-turbo TDI engine, capable of producing 650bhp.

It is the first attempt to win the race with a diesel car and the move highlights the massive developments in diesel engines that have been made in recent years.

Head of Audi Motorsport, Dr Wolfgang Ullrich, is aware of the task the team has ahead of them, commenting: "The R10 project is the biggest challenge ever to have been handed to Audi Sport.

"TDI technology has not been pushed to its limits in motor sport yet. We are the first to confront the challenge," he continued.

The R10 will have two particulate filters to reduce emissions as the company looks to ensure it is producing a competitive vehicle that is also environmentally-friendly.

It has taken two years to build the car and secret test sessions will continue before its inaugural race at Sebring, Florida in March.

Audi has won the Le Mans event, which is held in June, five times in the past six years.


Ÿ Adfero Ltd