( dpa ) - Audi unveiled the first 12-cylinder diesel engine in a high-performance roadgoing sports car based on the Audi R8 at the Detroit Motor Show.
The engine, closely related to the two-times Le Mans winner, the Audi R10, generates 500 hp with a top speed of well over 300 kilometres per hour.
Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h is listed at 4.2 seconds with the peak torque reached at only 1,750 rpm.
The V12 TDI belongs to Audi's family of V engines. A highlight is the chain drive layout that includes two newly developed high- pressure pumps for the common rail injection system.
The R8 V12 TDI concept with matt "Grace Silver" bodywork looks wider than the core model with its accentuated wheel arches and larger air apertures.
A new feature is the glass roof over the passenger compartment with two large transparent sections. These, together with the glazed engine compartment behind, create a radically new formal element.
The dominant interior element is an expansive arc running around the steering wheel and instruments. The three-spoke sport steering wheel has a flat lower edge, giving it a distinct racing feel.
A 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. Supplementary information such as centrifugal force and boost pressure can be called up.
According to Audi, the entire bodyshell of the study car weighs just 210 kilogrammes. In ASF technology, the body's supporting structure is made of extruded aluminium sections and die-castings.