Audi R8 coming in 2007

The best part about the article from inside line, is that the R8 will be out by mid 2007.

NECKARSULM, Germany — Audi is investing $35 million in new tooling at its assembly plant here in preparation for the mid-2007 launch of its first supercar, the R8.

The high-performance midengined two-seater is based on the Le Mans concept from the 2003 Frankfurt Motor Show. It will be completely hand-built by about 250 Audi employees, many of whom previously worked on the startup phase of the Lamborghini Gallardo — with which the R8 will share a number of critical components, including an aluminum space frame.

Production of the all-wheel-drive R8 is being overseen by Audi's quattro subsidiary, which also assembles the limited-edition RS series of high-performance production cars.

Audi said the lightweight aluminum bodies for the R8 will be painted on the same line here as the Gallardo and the A8 sedan.

Insiders now expect the production model will feature a 420-horsepower version of Audi's 4.2-liter V8, although an optional V10 is also rumored for an uplevel variant.

Audi is hinting the production R8 will make its debut this fall at the Paris Motor Show. Expect a $100,000-plus sticker price on the base car when it arrives in U.S. showrooms as a 2008 model.

What this means to you: The R8, née "Le Mans," edges closer to reality.