Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[REPORT: Red Bull to place Raikkonen, Loeb and Coulthard in Peugeot 908 HDi at Le Mans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-red-bull-to-place-raikkonen-loeb-and-coulthard-in-peuge/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-red-bull-to-place-raikkonen-loeb-and-coulthard-in-peuge/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-red-bull-to-place-raikkonen-loeb-and-coulthard-in-peuge/#commentsFiled under: ,


Peugeot 908 HDi - Click above for high-res image gallery

Motorsports of late have been gripped by the crossover of racing drivers from one discipline to another, but one of the most established migrations in motor racing has always been between Formula One and Le Mans. The great (but unrelated) Hills - Phil and Graham - both won the F1 championship and Le Mans, but none have done so since Jochen Rindt in 1970. Lately, Peugeot especially has been seeking F1 drivers to pilot its 908 HDi against the venerable Audis at the famous 24-hour race, but that could step up a notch if the latest rumors from France hold any Evian.

Peugeot has registered three factory works cars to challenge Le Mans next year, plus one mystery car that has only been listed as a privateer entry. According to the latest reports, that entry could be fielded by Red Bull. The energy drink company has one of the most comprehensive networks of racing talent under its wings, but what's catching the most attention is three of its most prominent drivers.

Six-time World Rally Champion Sebastien Loeb, whose Citroen C4 rally car is sponsored by Red Bull, has raced Le Mans previously, and has been linked to a return to the endurance race. 2007 Formula One champion Kimi Raikkonen will likewise be driving next year in a Red Bull-sponsored C4 fielded by Citroen (Peugeot's sister company). Finally, David Coulthard was largely responsible for Red Bull's foray into F1, and though retired from actively racing, remains an advisor and test driver for the team.

While these rumors could prove nothing more than exactly that, if Red Bull were to bring these three talents to La Sarthe, they would surely be a force to be reckoned with.


Gallery: Peugeot 908 HDi


[Source: AUTOhebdo via Le Blog Auto and Axis of Oversteer]

REPORT: Red Bull to place Raikkonen, Loeb and Coulthard in Peugeot 908 HDi at Le Mans originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 heures du mans24 hours of le mans24HeuresDuMans24HoursOfLeManscoulthard le manscoulthard peugeotCoulthardLeMansCoulthardPeugeotdavid coulthardDavidCoulthardkimi raikkonenKimiRaikkonenle mansLeMansloeb le mansloeb peugeotLoebLeMansLoebPeugeotpeugeotpeugeot 908peugeot 908 hdipeugeot le mansPeugeot908Peugeot908HdiPeugeotLeMansraikkonen le mansraikkonen peugeotRaikkonenLeMansRaikkonenPeugeotred bullred bull le mansRedBullRedBullLeManssebastien loebSebastienLoebFri, 11 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Acura LMP2 car to campaign at 2010 24 Hours of LeMans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/17/acura-lmp2-car-to-campaign-at-2010-24-hours-of-lemans/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/17/acura-lmp2-car-to-campaign-at-2010-24-hours-of-lemans/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/17/acura-lmp2-car-to-campaign-at-2010-24-hours-of-lemans/#commentsFiled under: ,


Lowe's Fernandez Racing Acura ARX-01b - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Despite having a dominant year with a record-tying eight class wins in the LMP2 category, the Lowe's Fernandez Acura ARX-01b might not be back for the 2010 ALMS season. The Indianapolis-based race team, one of the three original announced by Acura back in 2006, has failed to secure a major sponsor for next year and will cancel its racing program if it fails to find one by the end of the month. As is often the case, however, misfortune can often lead to opportunity. England-based Strakka Racing has made plans to purchase the Acura ARX-01owned by Fernandez Racing and will compete with the car in the European Le Mans Series next year as well as the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The deal has yet to be finalized, but Strakka has already informed the LMS organizers of its intentions and has signed British driver Danny Watts, who previously drove a Panoz Esperante GT-LM in the series. You can see the Fernandez Racing Acura ARX-01b in the high-res gallery below, which features the car during its class win at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca earlier this month.


Gallery: Lowe's Fernandez Racing Acura ARX-01b


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: AutoWeek]

Acura LMP2 car to campaign at 2010 24 Hours of LeMans originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 17 Oct 2009 16:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 24 Hours of Le Mans201024HoursOfLeMans24 Hours of Le Mans24HoursOfLeMansAcuraAcura ARX-01bAcuraArx-01bALMSAmerican Le Mans SeriesAmericanLeMansSeriesLowes Fernandez RacingLowesFernandezRacingStrakka RacingStrakkaRacingSat, 17 Oct 2009 16:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Virtual Le Mans Is On: Forza Motorsport 3 confirms Circuit De La Sarthe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/virtual-le-mans-is-on-forza-motorsport-3-confirms-circuit-de-la/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/virtual-le-mans-is-on-forza-motorsport-3-confirms-circuit-de-la/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/virtual-le-mans-is-on-forza-motorsport-3-confirms-circuit-de-la/#commentsFiled under: ,


Circuit De La Sarthe in Forza Motorsport 3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The real 24 Hours of Le Mans just ended, but thanks to the upcoming release of Forza Motorsport 3, you'll be able to recreate the battle between Audi and Peugeot any time you want. Turn 10, the developers of FM3, have confirmed the game's inclusion of Circuit De La Sarthe, including every famous turn and that most monster of straights, the Mulsanne. We're told that the entire 8.5-mile course and its 21 famously named turns have been painstakingly recreated - even the shorter Bugatti circuit will be playable.

La Sarthe is no stranger to being virtually recreated in video games. Most recently, the extremely addicting racer GRiD offered up Le Mans in between seasons while playing in career mode. The third installment of Forza, however, will be the most detailed recreation yet.

Turn 10 has also announced a partial list of race cars with which you'll be able to tackle the 24 Hours of Le Mans in your living room. In addition to this year's Le Mans-winning Peugeot 908, Audi's R8 and diesel-powered R10 will be available. There's no mention of the newer R15, but we expect Turn 10 to complete the roster of Audi LMP1 cars with some downloadable content later on.

Check out the gallery below to view the rest of the recently announced Le Mans racers and see how well Turn 10 recreated La Sarthe.


Gallery: Circuit De La Sarthe in Forza Motorsport 3


[Source: ForzaMotorsport.net via Jalopnik]

Virtual Le Mans Is On: Forza Motorsport 3 confirms Circuit De La Sarthe originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hours of le mans24HoursOfLeManscircuit de la sartheCircuitDeLaSartheforzaforza 3forza motorsportforza motorsport 3Forza3ForzaMotorsportForzaMotorsport3la sartheLaSarthele mansLeMansTue, 16 Jun 2009 19:29:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 24 Hours of Le Mans: Peugeot finally at the top]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/14/2009-24-hours-of-le-mans-peugeot-takes-top-two-podiums/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/14/2009-24-hours-of-le-mans-peugeot-takes-top-two-podiums/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/14/2009-24-hours-of-le-mans-peugeot-takes-top-two-podiums/#commentsFiled under:



382 laps. 3,247 miles. 24 hours. If you haven't been following along, that's the recipe for Peugeot's first and second place finish at the 2009 24 Hours of Le Mans. After a ten-minute stint in the pits, the No. 1 R15's fate was sealed, and when the checkered flag finally dropped, the Audi was seven laps behind the No. 9 Peugeot. But just as impressive asPeugeot's win (and its first-place standing since 9 pm last night) is the 007 Lola Aston Martin's fourth-place finish, the Corvette C6.R's complete and utter dominance of GT1 and the fact that every single GT2 car - including the No. 85 Spyker C8 Laviolette - beat out the lone Porsche 911 GT3 RSR after the three other 997s slowly succumbed to attrition. We're going to leave it to the analysts and commentators to pick apart how the race was won (or lost), but we will say that our first experience at Le Mans left us in awe of the competitors, the support teams and, most impressively, the mass of fans that descended on the circuit. It's a goosebump-inducing experience and needless to say, we highly recommend it. Time for a much-needed shower and some rest. Check the gallery below for plenty of photos from the finish and see the full standings here.


Gallery: 2009 24 Hours of Le Mans - Finish

2009 24 Hours of Le Mans: Peugeot finally at the top originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 14 Jun 2009 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2009 24 Hours of Le Mans - Click above for a high-res image gallery

We managed to snag just over an hour's worth of sleep underneath the stairs of the Audi Arena after bouncing around the track in the early hours of the morning. Before dawn broke, two massive strings of racers were caught behind the safety cars for over 40 minutes after the No. 17 Pescarolo Peugeot shunted into the wall in one of the most violent crashes in recent Le Mans history. Reports about the driver's condition haven't been forthcoming, with the ACO only saying that he was conscious when the medical crew arrived. We haven't heard anything new, so if you have, let us know in the comments.

The Pescarolo joins 14 other cars that are officially out of the race, including the No. 2 Audi R15 from last night, the LMGT2 Lamborghini and the Flying Lizard Porsche 911 GT3 RSR.

With just under six hours left, the Peugeot Total team is continuing to hold off the Audi R15 currently piloted by Mr. Le Mans, Tom Kristensen, with the 007 Lola Aston Martin coming in six laps behind the R15, followed by the No. 11 Oreca AIM and the No. 14 R10. The two R10s are holding slots in the top ten, further proof that the older TDIs are still competitive in the field. The official timing is available at the Le Mans website, and we've posted another sizable batch of photos from late last night/early this morning. Our apologies for the photo quality (we're getting a bit loopy), but they should give you a feel for what Le Mans is like at night and what the next several hours hold for the competitors. We're off to acquire colossal amounts of carbs and coffee. More to follow.


Gallery: 2009 24 Hours of Le Mans - Night

2009 24 Hours of Le Mans: Late night/early morning originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 14 Jun 2009 03:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 24 hours of le mans2009 24 hours of lemans200924HoursOfLeMans24 hours of le mans24 hours of lemans24HoursOfLeMansle mansLeMansSun, 14 Jun 2009 03:32:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 24 Hours of Le Mans: The best (pit) seat in the house]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/13/2009-24-hours-of-le-mans-the-best-pit-seat-in-the-house/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/13/2009-24-hours-of-le-mans-the-best-pit-seat-in-the-house/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/13/2009-24-hours-of-le-mans-the-best-pit-seat-in-the-house/#commentsFiled under:


Above the Audi pits - Click above for a high-res image gallery

We've been bouncing all over the track since late yesterday morning, but a little after 2 AM we found our new favorite spectator spot - directly above the Audi pits. The speed, skill and - in typical German fashion - efficiency of the Audi crew is unmatched at Le Mans, but lighting quick fuel stops and deft tire swaps are only part of the equation. And Audi is having a difficult time filling in the numbers.

After an achingly long spell in the garage, the No. 3 Audi R15 is 42 laps behind the race leader, placing 44th overall and dashing any hopes of a triumphant comeback. So with the No. 2 Audi out altogether, the No. 1 R15 is the sole Audi fighting it out with the three seemingly (and just recently) unflappable Peugeots for a top spot. McNish might make it to sunrise on his current stint, but the No. 8 Peugeot was breathing down his neck before coming in for a driver change, so there's a distinct possibility that Sarrazin could overtake the Scot for the second spot. If you're getting the impression that Audi may have overestimated its abilities, you're not alone. But we're only at the cusp of the halfway point, and as history shows, Audi shines when the heat is on.

As for the rest of the field, the No. 31 LMP2 Team Essex Porsche Spyder is maintaining a commanding three-lap lead over the No. 5 Navi Team Goh Spyder, while the three C6.R Corvettes maintain a steady pace taking the top three spots in GT1. For the rest of the rankings, check out Le Mans' official time page and if you're following along at home, turn down the volume on SpeedTV and tune into Radio Le Mans for some of the best commentary around. We're off to find a Grand Marnier crepe and see what kind of debauchery is taking place outside the paddocks.


Gallery: Audi Pit

2009 24 Hours of Le Mans: The best (pit) seat in the house originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 13 Jun 2009 20:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The air is thick and the sun is setting over the Circuit de la Sarthe as the competitors press on deep into their eighth hour of racing. By the time these words hit the screen, the No. 9 Peugeot will have done over 120 laps, with the No. 1 Audi R15 trailing by a full lap. The final five LMP1 slots are filled by the No. 8 Peugeot, No. 17 Peugeot and the 007 Lola Aston Martin. The No. 63 and 67 Corvettes have been running clean and strong all day, each putting down almost 110 laps and keeping a comfortable spread from the rest of the GT1 cars. Too bad this is the C6.R's last Le Mans, but we've been assured - despite GM's current troubles - that the team should be back next year.

Although Saturday's been hot and muggy, the most recent weather reports suggest rain is on the way, with a thunderstorm coming sometime Sunday - here's hoping. Despite being on the ground, we've been listening to the race unfold on Radio Le Mans, which has been broadcasting some stellar coverage of the event. Check it out here and expect more updates as the night wears on. With an espresso machine nearby and a comfortable floor to catch a few winks, we plan on enduring the enduro into the morning. Watch this space - Le Mans is at its best after the sun sets.

2009 24 Hours of Le Mans: Dusk descends originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 13 Jun 2009 16:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Just over an hour ago, we arrived at the Circuit de la Sarthe for the 77th running of the 24 Hours of LeMans, and judging by the competitors, the track and the weather, the 2009 event has all the potential - if not more - than last year's race.


Gallery: 24 hours Le Mans 2009

Continue reading Autoblog at 24h Le Mans 2009

Autoblog at 24h Le Mans 2009 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Jun 2009 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hours of le mans24h lemans24hLemans24HoursOfLeMans24hr lemans 200924hrLemans2009autoblog lemansAutoblogLemansFri, 12 Jun 2009 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Peugeot takes pole at 24 Hours of Le Mans for third straight year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/peugeot-takes-pole-at-24-hours-of-le-mans-for-third-straight-yea/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/peugeot-takes-pole-at-24-hours-of-le-mans-for-third-straight-yea/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/12/peugeot-takes-pole-at-24-hours-of-le-mans-for-third-straight-yea/#commentsFiled under: , ,



It's mid-June and that means it's time for the 24 Hours of Le Mans again. If the past decade is anything to go by, the number one contenders will again be the factory Audis, which have won eight of the last nine races (all nine if you count the 2003 as the Audi it truly was). For the past two years, the big battle for overall glory has been between the diesel-powered Audi R10 and Peugeot 908, and this year looks to be no different aside from Audi having an all new car, the R15, still with TDI power.

While the Peugeots have shown superior speed the last two years, the Audis have had better reliability and pit work. This year, the R15s appear to have made up the speed deficit, and the Germans look set for victory again if the crew can keep them running. Unfortunately for Audi, the race won't start with one of its cars in the lead, as Stephane Sarrazin has once again captured the poll in his Peugeot 908 for a record third straight year. Alan McNish managed to qualify one of Audi's three R15s right behind Sarrazin, but the other two cars managed to qualify only sixth and seventh on the starting grid. Three other Peugeot 908s will start from third, fourth and fifth, respectively, which means diesel power penetrates all the way back to the fourth row on this year's starting grid.

For those interested in following Audi's progress this weekend, the automaker is following up up its Sebring Facebook coverage with even more social media stuff this weekend. You can find photos, videos and news at AudiR15TDI.com, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube. Our own Damon Lavrinc will also be reporting live from Le Mans this year, so keep an eye on Autoblog and make sure to follow our Twitter feed all weekend long.

[Sources: Yahoo Eurosport, Audi, AutoCar | Photo by Ker Robertson/Getty Images]

Peugeot takes pole at 24 Hours of Le Mans for third straight year originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hours of le mans24HoursOfLeMansaudi r15audi r15 tdiAudiR15AudiR15Tdidiesel racingDieselRacingle mansLeManslmp1peugeot 908Peugeot908Fri, 12 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Event Alert: June Calendar of Automotive Events]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/29/event-alert-june-calendar-of-automotive-events/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/29/event-alert-june-calendar-of-automotive-events/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/29/event-alert-june-calendar-of-automotive-events/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



As we approach the half-way point of 2009, the automotive industry is still in turmoil and the economy is just barely showing signs of recovery, but we still have plenty to be happy about. Dozens of concours events, cruise nights, and local shows are being held each and every weekend around the country. There's probably one close to you. Greenwich, Huntington Beach, Los Angeles, and Rodeo Drive top that list of concours in June. There will also be plenty of racing action with another running of the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans June 13 and 14. Formula 1 makes stops at Turkey and Silverstone. With the Indianapolis 500 over, IndyCar moves on to Texas, Iowa and Richmond. And NASCAR fans can see action at Pocono, Michigan International Speedway, Infineon and New Hampshire. Speed junkies will also have another go at land speed records when the next El Mirage event takes place June 14.

There will also be some auction action too, with a Bonhams sale at the Greenwich Concours d'Elegance and the Mecum Corvette Auction during Bloomington Gold in St. Charles, Illinois. One of our favorite events of the summer returns this June, the Friends of Steve McQueen Car Show in Chino Hills, CA. Other events on our Google Calendar this month include the Carlisle All-Ford Nationals, Susquehannock Trail Rally, Fleetwood Country Cruize-In, Corvettes of Myrtle Beach, Greatest Cruise on Turf, Wranglers' All Ford Show and Swap Meet, 20th Annual Orphan Car Tour, Automezzi Colorado, Red Mill British Car Day, 14th Annual San Clemente Car Show, GoodGuys Hot Rod Nationals, AutoMat's 52nd Anniversary Car Show, 24th Annual Huntington Beach Concours, UCP Concours d'Elegance, Ault Park Concours d'Elegance, Classy Chassis, Pismo Beach Classic Car Show, 45th Annual L.A. Roadster Show, British Motorcar Gathering, Challenge Rally Cinque, The Hemmings Challenge, Annie & Steve Norman Classic Motorcar Rally, GoodGuys East Coast Nationals, CAR Show at the AACA Museum, Palo Alto Concours d'Elegance at Stanford, and another pair of AW Briefing events from London.

If none of those events appeals to you, check the Google Calendar after the jump for even more listings, all with detailed info and links. Please use the comments section to add or modify listings. Oh, and Happy Fathers Day to all of you Dads out there.

Continue reading Event Alert: June Calendar of Automotive Events

Event Alert: June Calendar of Automotive Events originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 May 2009 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hours of le mans24HoursOfLeMansautoblog calendarAutoblogCalendarcalendarcalendar of eventsCalendarOfEventsgreenwich concoursGreenwichConcourshuntington beach concours deleganceHuntingtonBeachConcoursDelegancele mansle mans 24 hoursLeMansLeMans24Hourslos angeles concoursLosAngelesConcoursrodeo drive concoursRodeoDriveConcoursFri, 29 May 2009 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Grey's Anatomy star Patrick Dempsey to race Ferrari at Le Mans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/25/grays-anatomy-star-patrick-dempsey-to-race-ferrari-at-le-mans/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/25/grays-anatomy-star-patrick-dempsey-to-race-ferrari-at-le-mans/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/25/grays-anatomy-star-patrick-dempsey-to-race-ferrari-at-le-mans/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Throughout the history of motorsports several Hollywood actors have had aspirations to be professional racecar drivers. Steve McQueen and the late Paul Newman come to mind, both of whom were very successful, and some modern era actors have also had a go at it too like Jason Priestley, Eric Bana and the annoyingly ignorant Franky Muniz. Adding to that list is Grey's Anatomy star Patrick Dempsey, who has competed in the Daytona 24 Hour Race and the Baja 1000 and has been competing in Grand Am's GT class since 2007. This June he'll be stepping up his game even further when he takes on the 24 Hours of Le Mans with Team Seattle and last year's Grand-Am Koni Challenge champion, Joe Foster. Dempsey will be driving a Ferrari F430 GT prepared by Advanced Engineering who has previously won the GT2 category in the FIA GT, although he'll have his hands full taking on the likes of factory-supported teams from Porsche, BMW, Panoz, and Ferrari. We wish him the best of luck!

[Source: ColdTrackDays]

Grey's Anatomy star Patrick Dempsey to race Ferrari at Le Mans originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 Hours of Le Mans24HoursOfLeMansFerrari F430 GTFerrariF430GtGrand AmGrand-AmGrandAmLe MansLeMansPatrick DempseyPatrickDempseyTeam SeattleTeamSeattleWed, 25 Feb 2009 08:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi R15 TDI arrives early ahead of race debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/17/audi-r15-tdi-arrives-early-ahead-of-race-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/17/audi-r15-tdi-arrives-early-ahead-of-race-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/17/audi-r15-tdi-arrives-early-ahead-of-race-debut/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above to enlarge

It really is a shame that Audi has pulled out of the American and European Le Mans Series, choosing only to run its new R15 TDI Le Mans Prototype racer at this year's 12 Hours of Sebring in March and 24 Hours of Le Mans in June. All that money, effort and time to develop a replacement for one of the winningest cars in all of motorsports seems like a waste on just two races, even if they are the sport's biggest.

This image released by Audi shows the design of the new R15 TDI ahead of its track debut in March. The new diesel-powered prototype car is much more radical compared to the R10 that it replaces than that car was to the R8. The most noteworthy difference is a new front end with an elevated nose that features two supports extending down to the pavement-scraping front chin spoiler. There's clearly some F1 influence up front, though Audi opted not to switch to a closed cockpit design like Peugeot uses for its 908 HDi.

The new R15 TDI will makes its race debut on March 21 at the 12 Hours of Sebring where its predecessors, the R10 and R8, have won eight times. Two cars will be campaigned using the same driver teams as last year: defending Le Mans winners Dindo Capello (Italy), Tom Kristensen (Denmark) and Allan McNish (Scotland) in one car and Lucas Luhr, Mike Rockenfeller and Marco Werner in the second. With Acura now competing against Audi in the LMP1 class and Aston Martin joining the fray in June at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, we reiterate our sentiment that it's a damn shame the R15 TDI will only be campaigned twice.

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi R15 TDI arrives early ahead of race debut

Audi R15 TDI arrives early ahead of race debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12 hours of sebring12HoursOfSebring24 hours of le mans24HoursOfLeMansaudiaudi r15 tdiAudiR15Tdir15r15 tdiR15TdiTue, 17 Feb 2009 18:58:00 EST<![CDATA[2008 24 Hours of Le Mans is underway]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/14/2008-24-hours-of-le-mans-is-underway/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/14/2008-24-hours-of-le-mans-is-underway/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/14/2008-24-hours-of-le-mans-is-underway/#commentsFiled under:



As many of you are well aware, the 24 Hours of Le Mans kicked off during the last hour. American viewers can catch the action on SPEED TV. Unfortunately, unlike the old Speedvision days, there isn't full 24-hour coverage.

Here is the SPEED TV schedule:

All times Eastern
  • Saturday, June 14: 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Live Coverage
  • Saturday, June 14, 9:00 PM - Sunday, June 15, 9:30 AM: Live Coverage
SPEED airs assorted NASCAR and other (summarily unwatchable) assorted programming between Noon and 9:00 PM today.

Web Coverage:
If you have any other good web destinations to suggest with regard to Le Mans coverage, leave a comment below.

2008 24 Hours of Le Mans is underway originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 14 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>200824 h24 hours of le mans24H24HoursOfLeMansLe MansLeMansSat, 14 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Grid set for 24 Hours of Le Mans, Peugeot starting 1-2-3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/13/grid-set-for-24-hours-of-le-mans-peugeot-starting-1-2-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/13/grid-set-for-24-hours-of-le-mans-peugeot-starting-1-2-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/13/grid-set-for-24-hours-of-le-mans-peugeot-starting-1-2-3/#commentsFiled under: , ,



As we reported yesterday, Peugeot was clearly the fastest in qualifying for this weekend's running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The record-setting runs of all three 908 HDi diesel-powered LMP1 cars places Peugeot's entire field of entries 1-2-3 on the starting grid. That's impressive considering two of Peugeot's car crashed during the past two weeks of practice. Audi is hoping that its team's experience, quicker pit stops and more fuel efficient R10 LMP1 cars will eventually carry it past the Peugeots, despite starting fourth, fifth and seventh on the 55-car grid. And thanks to the speed of Lola Aston Martin driver Stefan Mücke whose petrol-powered car earned the sixth spot on the starting grid, not all the front runners will be diesel-powered.

As for classes other than LMP1, the next fastest LMP2 class was dominated by the Porsche Spyders not surprisingly, while LMGT1 is being led by the #63 Corvette Racing C6.R. The Corvettes will be chased this year by the particularly fast #50 Larbre Competition Saleen S7 and some slower but determined Aston Martin DBR9s from Aston Martin Racing. Finally, LMGT2 will be another great battle between Porsches and Ferraris, with the #76 Imsa Performance Matmut Porsche 911 GT3 RSR on pole for the class. Remember the amazing GT2 class finish of last year's race between Flying Lizard's Jorg Bergmeister in a Porsche 911 GT3 RSR and Risi Competizione's Jaime Melo in a Ferrari 430GT? If not, watch it again here as a reminder of why Le Mans is absolutely amazing. Also check out this great post at UltimateCarPage that has a detailed breakdown of all 55 cars with an image of each one and a list of their drivers.

[Source: 24 Hours of Le Mans, UltimateCarPage, Photo by JEAN FRANCOIS MONIER/AFP/Getty ]

Grid set for 24 Hours of Le Mans, Peugeot starting 1-2-3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 12:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hours of le mans24HoursOfLeMansaudi peugeotAudiPeugeotpeugeotpeugeot 908 hdipeugeot le manspeugeot908hdiPeugeotLeMansFri, 13 Jun 2008 12:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Peugeot destroys Le Mans lap record in qualifying]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/12/peuegeot-destroys-le-mans-lap-record-in-qualifying/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/12/peuegeot-destroys-le-mans-lap-record-in-qualifying/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/12/peuegeot-destroys-le-mans-lap-record-in-qualifying/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The 76th running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans takes place this weekend, and just like last year, Audi and Peugeot will be duking it out in front with their diesel-powered LMP1 cars. The Audi R10 is a proven race machine, both durable and fast, but the Peugeot 908 has often times proved faster. Late yesterday at the first qualifying session for the endurance race, the 908 proved to be the fastest by far when it shattered the lap record at Le Mans by 7.8 seconds! The car was being driven by French driver Stephane Sarrazin, who man-handled the 908 around the track in 3 minutes and 18.513 seconds. A truly amazing feat, though what's more incredible is that the next five fastest times also beat the previous lap record, two of which were Audi R10s. Unfortunately, the second and third fastest times behind the fastest Peugeot 908 were two more Peugeot 908s. The Peugeot cars are clearly faster than the Audis so far in qualifying, but that was the case last year and Audi pulled out a win just like it has the past four years in a row. Unlike the Le Mans Series races where Peugeot has won the first three races so far this year, Le Mans is about endurance and Audi has proven seven out of the last eight years that it can last longer than the rest.

[Source: Reuters, Photo by Ker Robertson/Getty]

Peugeot destroys Le Mans lap record in qualifying originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hours of le mans24 hours of lemans24HoursOfLeMansaudi r10AudiR10le mans recordLeMansRecordpeugeot 908peugeot 908 hdiPeugeot908Peugeot908HdiThu, 12 Jun 2008 19:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi may still not compete in ALMS next year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/03/audi-may-still-not-compete-in-alms-next-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/03/audi-may-still-not-compete-in-alms-next-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/03/audi-may-still-not-compete-in-alms-next-year/#commentsFiled under: ,



Despite confirmation from Audi that it will return to ALMS in 2008 with two R10 TDIs, apparently it's not officially official. It is well known that Audi holds extreme displeasure for ALMS regulation changes involving weight that were aimed at keeping the LMP1 vehicles like the R10 in close running with the less powerful LMP2 vehicles. Audi believes that the adjustments went too far, as the Penske Porsche RS Sypders won 8 out of 12 races in the 2007 season. For 2008, a 50 kg (110 lb) weight penalty will be imposed on the LMP2 cars for the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race, and Audi hopes to see IMSA implement the same weight penalty before it decides it will return to ALMS. When asked, Audi would also not go into detail on whether they would accept the rumored compromise of a 25 kg (55 lb) weight penalty. Come on, IMSA. The ALMS without Audi is a lot less attractive.

[Source: Autoweek]

Audi may still not compete in ALMS next year originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Dec 2007 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 Hours of Le Mans24HoursOfLeMansALMSALMS Audi R10AlmsAudiR10Audi R10AudiR10Mon, 03 Dec 2007 18:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi entering European Le Mans Series in 2008]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/30/audi-entering-european-le-mans-series-in-2008/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/30/audi-entering-european-le-mans-series-in-2008/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/30/audi-entering-european-le-mans-series-in-2008/#commentsFiled under: ,



To say that Audi has been successful in motorsports the past few years would be a gross understatement. Both the diesel-powered R8 and R10 TDI LMP1 race cars have dominated the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the American Le Mans Series, while Audi A4-based race cars have also been champions in DTM racing. For 2008, Audi is going whole hog into motorsports, investing more money and cars into these two successful series. Audi will be going for its sixth victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans next June with three R10 race cars, and in addition to entering another two R10 TDIs in the American Le Mans Series, it will also field a pair in the Le Mans Series in Europe. Aside from the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race, this will be the first time the Audi R10 TDI and Peugeot 908 HDi, both powered by diesel engines, square off on a regular basis. Lucas Luhr, who previously could be found driving in the DTM series, will also make the switch to the Audi R10 TDI in the Le Mans Series.

While we spent the entire last season of the American Le Mans Series watching the Audi R10 TDI duke it out with the entire LMP2 field, the Le Mans Series in Europe featuring Audi versus Peugeot will be where the best racing can be had. Too bad SPEED hardly shows anything but NASCAR now.

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi entering European Le Mans Series in 2008

Audi entering European Le Mans Series in 2008 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Nov 2007 15:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hours of le mans24HoursOfLeMansamerican le mans seriesAmericanLeMansSeriesaudiaudi a4 dtmaudi dtmaudi le mansaudi r10AudiA4DtmAudiDtmAudiLeMansAudiR10european le mans seriesEuropeanLeMansSeriesFri, 30 Nov 2007 15:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Petersen/White Lightning to use Ferrari F430 GT in '07]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/21/petersen-white-lightning-to-use-ferrari-f430-gt-in-07/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/21/petersen-white-lightning-to-use-ferrari-f430-gt-in-07/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/21/petersen-white-lightning-to-use-ferrari-f430-gt-in-07/#commentsFiled under: ,



You win some, you lose some. First Dyson announces it's dropping a division to start racing LMP2 in a Porsche RS Spyder, and now Petersen/White Lightning is switching from its two-time championship winning 911s to a Ferrari F430 GT. That 2,425 lb. Ferrari is essentially the same as the Risi Competizione car that won the GT2 Team Championship last year in its first season of racing.

After two consecutive ALMS Drivers' Championships, the team will be getting a higher level of factory support than ever before. By getting their car through the Ferrari Corse Clienti program, they will get a thoroughly sorted machine with lots of factory help, but they will still be able to compete for the independent championship. That would be their third in a row if the sophomore Ferrari performs as well as hoped.

The F430 GT will continue to wear the neon yellow, red and white paintjob on their No. 31 car when they go for the threepeat starting at the season-opener, the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring in March. Petersen/White Lightning has campaigned 911s of one type or another in the American Le Mans Series since 1999, racking up 17 class wins including the 24 Hours of Le Mans twice, the 24 Hours of Daytona, the 12 Hours of Sebring, and the Petit Le Mans twice as well.

So far it looks like GT2 will feature 5 Porsches, 4 Ferraris, 2 Panoz, and possibly those 2 Spykers. That would be a very entertaining field that might actually start to bring ALMS to the forefront of America's racing consciousness. Still more changes are expected before the New Year, so we'll keep you posted.

[Source: ALMS]

Thanks for the tip, Mr. ALMS Mike!

Petersen/White Lightning to use Ferrari F430 GT in '07 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Dec 2006 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 Hours of Le Mans24HoursOfLeMansALMSCorse ClientiCorseClientiFerrari F430 GTFerrariF430GtGT2Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of SebringMobil1TwelveHoursOfSebringPetersen/White LightningPetersen/whiteLightningRisi CompetizioneRisiCompetizioneThu, 21 Dec 2006 15:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi commemorates historic R10 TDI win with A6 Le Mans Edition]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/19/audi-commemorates-r10-tdi-win-with-a6-le-mans-edition/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/19/audi-commemorates-r10-tdi-win-with-a6-le-mans-edition/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/19/audi-commemorates-r10-tdi-win-with-a6-le-mans-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Audi's R10 TDI racer is proving itself a worthy successor to the legendary R8 and an outstanding poster cars for diesel technology. The Ingolstadt-based automaker is commemorating the R10 TDI's historical win at Le Mans with a special A6 Le Mans Edition package that includes £2,300 worth of options for only £115.

Based on the S-line version of the A6 3.0 TDI quattro, the Le Mans Edition will feature 19-inch, 7-arm double spoke alloy wheels also seen on the RS4 quattro, as well as metallic or pearl effect paint. The interior benefits from the Luxury Pack option that normally costs £975 and adds Volterra leather upholstery, heated from sports seats, rear acoustic parking and LED interior lighting. Because it's an S-line underneath, the Le Mans Edition also benefits from a sports suspension lowered 30mm, upgraded braking components, and other S-line accoutrement. The car's 3.0-liter V6 TDI produces 229 horsepower and 331 ft-lbs. of torque, good for 6.9-second trips to 62 mph while also achieveing 35.3 mpg (Euro spec).

Only 1,000 right-hand drive examples will be built in both Saloon and Avant body styles, with pricing starting at £34,575 for the sedan and £35,845 for the wagon.

(Audi's full press release can be found after the jump)

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi commemorates historic R10 TDI win with A6 Le Mans Edition

Audi commemorates historic R10 TDI win with A6 Le Mans Edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jul 2006 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 Hours of Le mans24HoursOfLeMansA6le MansLeMansR10R10 TDIR10TdiTDIWed, 19 Jul 2006 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Reunited, and it feels so good]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/14/reunited-and-it-feels-so-good/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/14/reunited-and-it-feels-so-good/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/14/reunited-and-it-feels-so-good/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ford reunites GT40 trio that swept Le Mans in '66

click for high-resolution version

2006 marks the 40th anniversary of Ford's 1-2-3 finish at the 24 Hours of Le Mans back in 1966. Born out Ford's desire to be beat Ferrari at its own game, the historic victory came courtesy of three GT40 Mark II race cars that this week were reunited at the Le Mans Classic to commemorate the anniversary. This was the first time all three cars had been together since Ford commemorated the racing event's 30th anniversary some 10 years ago.

Ford of Europe even went to the trouble of shipping the first place car, a black and silver Shelby American Mark II, all the way from the U.S. where it resides under the ownership of American collector George Stauffer.

Ford restaged the 1-2-3 finish for the benefit of photographers, who likely won't get a chance to capture the recreation for another ten years.

(A few more high-resolution pics after the jump)

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Reunited, and it feels so good

Reunited, and it feels so good originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Jul 2006 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 Hours of Le Mans24HoursOfLeMansFord GTFordGtGT40GT40 Mark IIGt40MarkIiLe MansLe Mans ClassicLeMansLeMansClassicFri, 14 Jul 2006 16:28:00 EST