Audi awaits 2011 regulations

Although the technical regulations have not yet been fully revealed, the wait is not onerous this season. Last year, in the midst of controversy over the equivalences between cars with diesel or gasoline engines, the 2010 regulations were eagerly awaited by those in the world of endurance. This year, the controversy has subsided and the path traced by the ACO is now known to manufacturers. “ We have known 90% of him for six months », confides for example Hugues de Chaunac, president of Oreca.

On the Audi side, confidence is required before the publication of this program. But Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich is waiting to have it in his hands to rejoice or not. He recognizes, however, that the 24 Hours of Le Mans 2011, with these new regulations, will have a very special flavor.

« It's safe because everyone is working on their car in relation to the new regulations, which are not yet 100% in our hands, confides the boss of Audi Motorsport to AUTOhebdo.fr. We were included in all the discussions but we have to see what details we will be given. We will have to study it carefully and only then will we be able to say whether or not what we discussed appears in the regulations. »

Audi has already started its R18 project, based on the main guidelines given by the ACO. We know in particular that the power of the engines will be reduced but that the SREC (kinetic energy recovery system) will arrive in endurance, with manufacturers having the possibility of integrating it. This SREC, with a maximum power of 500 Kj, will be impacted on two wheels, with manufacturers retaining the choice of axle. But not all the points have yet been revealed in detail and Audi will be able to adapt if necessary. “ We are currently in the concept phases and if the regulations are ready this weekend, I think we will be able to adapt well. Before reading it in detail, I won't be able to say anything. »