Audi’s iconic R8 supercar will be discontinued after the 2023 model year. However, the German automaker has plans for a successor that will feature an electric powertrain and may undergo a name change.
Before bidding farewell to the current R8, Audi is rumored to be developing a special edition model. Recent spy shots have captured what appears to be a prototype of this hardcore version.
The latest images show a vehicle that closely resembles Audi’s R8 LMS GT2 race car. However, with a higher ride height and license plates, indicating its intention to conquer both the road and the track.
The Audi R8 LMS GT2 was introduced in 2019 for the revived GT2 series organized by SRO. This track-focused machine is equipped with the familiar 5.2-liter V-10 engine, producing an impressive 640 horsepower. With the discontinuation of the R8 and its sibling, the Lamborghini Huracán, the V-10 engine will also retire. Therefore, making the special edition R8 a fitting tribute to its performance legacy.
2020 Audi R8 LMS GT2 race car concept
The Audi R8 LMS GT2 showcases a distinctive roof design. It is actually derived from the R8 Spyder due to the necessity of incorporating a roll cage. To maintain a lightweight structure, carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic is utilized for many of the panels, resulting in a dry weight of under 1400kg. Similar modifications can be observed on the prototype.
In 2019, Oliver Hoffman, Audi’s Head of Research and Development at that time, hinted at the possibility of a road-going version of an R8 race car. He also mentioned that Audi factory driver Frank Stippler was involved in the development of high-performance road cars, particularly in the areas of suspension and brakes.
During the prototype’s initial test laps at the ‘Ring, it was driven by Stippler himself.
Considering the absence of camouflage, the official unveiling may be just around the corner. Sources suggest that the special edition model will be launched early next year, with a limited production run of only 100 units. Stay tuned for more updates.