Audi Ponders a Diesel-Hybrid Supercar

Volkswagen AG's Audi unit says it may develop a supercar that borrows technology from its R18 diesel-electric Le Mans race car.

Wolfgang Durheimer, who heads Audi's research and development, tells Auto Express "there is definitely room" for such a model, which would be positioned above the company's R8 supercar due in 2015. Competitors for the top-of-the-line Audi would include the McLaren P1 and Porsche 918 Spyder.

Durheimer says he is eager to transfer technology from the R18 racer, which captured the top three positions in this year's Le Mans endurance race. Performance always sells, he tells the British enthusiast magazine, adding that, "if it is quick, has low (fuel) consumption and looks cool, I'm sure it would be a success."

Auto Express notes that Audi has not decided to develop the supercar and isn't likely to introduce it until at least 2017 even if it approves the project. To be competitive with other cars in the class, the magazine says, the supercar would likely produce 700 hp and 740 lb-ft of torque, scoot from zero to 62 mph in about 3 seconds and achieve a top speed in excess of 200 mph.

Audi has multiple chassis options if the car is approved, the magazine says. One choice would be the new MSB platform VW is developing to carry all the group's next-generation midship and rear-engine cars, including the Lamborghini Gallardo and Porsche 911.

Another option would be a purpose-built carbon-fiber chassis, Auto Express points out. Lamborghini and Porsche have taken that route with, respectively, the Aventador and 918 Spyder.