2007 Audi R10 Lemans TDI

Audi has confirmed that they are going to Lemans this year with a TDI. The 5.5L 650hp TDI engine found a home in the Audi R10 racecar.

(Via speedtv.com.)

Audi Confirms Diesel Le Mans Contender Written by: Adam CooperParis, France – 12/13/2005

The R10's V12 turbocharged engine generates 650 horsepower and 800 pound-feet of torque. (Audi photo)

Audi has finally confirmed its long-rumored plans to rejuvenate its sports car program by introducing a diesel engine.

The aluminum, 5.5-liter V12 TDI unit, said to be capable of 650hp and producing 800 pound-feet of torque, will be mated to the all-new R10 chassis. It will make its debut at Sebring in March, prior to an assault on Le Mans in June with the crack Joest team. Tested on the track last month, the R10 was unveiled in Paris on Tuesday, and was given a brief outing on a closed section of public street by Tom Kristensen.

Taking the diesel route represents a marketing coup for the German company. Diesel engines are an extremely popular passenger car option in most of Europe, not least because the fuel costs less than standard gasoline. Audi is in fierce comp"