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Audi Goes Green For Le Mans

Audi Sport, the automaker’s in-house racing division, will be using an all new diesel fuel to be used by its R10 TDI LMP1 cars at this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans. The race-only fuel not only produces ample power, but also dramatically reduces CO2 emissions.

All three of Audi’s highly successful 650-horsepower R10 TDI machines will be powered by an innovative V-Power diesel race fuel created by Shell.  Previously, the 5.5-liter V-12 racecars have used a synthetic diesel fuel derived from natural gas through a process called Gas to Liquid (GTL).

Shell’s newest diesel fuel incorporates a process called BTL, or Biomass to Liquid, which transforms biowaste (waste food or wood) into suitable synthetic elements designed to be used in conjunction with GTL.  When the older GTL race diesel is combined with the BTL mixture, the resulting synthetic race fuel is said to reduce C02 emissions by almost 90 percent, according to Audi. 

Extensive testing of the fuel on Audi Sport’s dyno was performed in order to ensure the fuel’s efficiency and low carbon footprint. Audi is also keen to point out the two types of diesels are sulfur free and odorless when emitted — meaning no more plumes of black smoke trailing from the exhaust pipes.   

Michael Dick, board member of Audi AG, stated in a press release that the 8.5 mile course at Le Mans will continue to be a key setting for which the automaker will develop its latest technologies (and fuels) for use in future road vehicles.

At this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans, Audi’s fleet of R10s will be piloted by nine drivers, including experienced ex-F1 driver Alan McNish who is looking to win Le Mans once again.  The race is the weekend of June 14-15.

The first public track test of the R10s powered by Shell’s BTL fuel will take place this Sunday, June 1, in Le Mans during the official pre-race testing session.