Hybrid engine powers Audi to victory

AUDI have proved that just because a car has a hybrid engine, drivers do not have to give up on performance.

The Audi R18 e-tron quattro team of Marcel Fässler (CH), Benoît Tréluyer (F) and Oliver Jarvis (GB) has won an historic victory for the German manufacturers.

The victory marked the first of a hybrid race car at the Sebring (Florida) 12 Hours in the history of the US endurance classic.

Right from the start, the two Audi R18 e-tron quattro cars set the pace: During the entire race an Audi was at the front of the field made up of 42 prototypes and GT sports cars. The third-placed Lola-Toyota was trailing the winner by five laps at the finish.
For 12 hours, the two Audis fought a fierce duel for victory and repeatedly overtook each other in close battle.

In total, the lead between the two R18 cars changed 20 times.
In the thrilling duel between the team’s two cars the current Le Mans winners and World Endurance Champions Marcel Fässler (CH) and Benoît Tréluyer (F) plus Sebring newcomer Oliver Jarvis (GB) prevailed by a narrow margin. Traditionally Audi use the event as a test for the Le Mans 24 hours. The company will be in high spirits looking forward to the French classic race.

The Audi Team Joest will also be taking part in the five race European Le Mans Series.

Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich, Head of Audi Motorsport, said:“That was a perfect finale! I’m

very happy about this one-two victory in a race in which both of our cars battled

against each other all the way to the finish and delivered a fantastic show to the

many fans. The entire squad worked hard, so winning after a long 12hours is

the sweetest reward. After victories with TFSI and TDI technology, Audi on clinching

the win today with a hybrid car has continued the success story at this race.”