The R8’s classic mid-engine configuration, combined with advanced Audi Space Frame (ASF) construction mating lightweight aluminium panelling to an aluminium space frame, provides the very best operating conditions for the futuristic chassis, which itself contains a high proportion of aluminium components.

Audi magnetic ride
The V12 TDI Concept is equipped with the advanced Audi magnetic ride adaptive damping system, which swaps conventional damper fluid for a magnetorheological fluid containing minute magnetic particles that can be influenced by an electromagnetic field. By applying a voltage to the system’s electromagnets, the viscosity of the fluid is altered by the affected magnetic particles, increasing resistance to damper movement to iron out pitch and roll when necessary, and reducing resistance at times when ride comfort is of greater importance. The system constantly monitors road conditions and driving style and reacts accordingly.

A specially tailored version of Audi drive select, the adaptive dynamics system introduced recently in the new A4 Saloon, also helps to personalise the driving experience. Offering ‘Dynamic’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ settings, it enables further fine-tuning of the magnetic ride dampers and the parameters of the engine and transmission. When the ‘Race’ setting is selected on a circuit, the interior instrument lighting changes from white to red and the onboard satellite navigation system displays navigation information relating to the specific circuit being driven, along with a lap timer. Supplementary information including centrifugal force and boost pressure can also be accessed in this mode.

quattro four-wheel-drive reassurance
Whether on road or circuit, the R8 is effectively moderated by high-performance carbon fibre-reinforced ceramic brakes, and by the legendary quattro permanent four-wheel-drive system, which by apportioning power to front and rear axles in constantly varying degrees dictated by road conditions prevents the less desirable handling traits often exhibited by powerful mid-engine, rear-drive sports cars.

Additional downforce to help the quattro system suck the car to the tarmac at speed is provided by a specially developed, larger version of the production road car’s automatically extending rear spoiler, combined with a fully clad diffuser under-body and special measures such as diffuser apertures in the rear bumper. Air is not only channelled in a way that accentuates the R8’s widely acclaimed handling capabilities, but is also effectively captured by racing-derived NACA ducts within the new glass roof over the passenger compartment to cool the potent V12.

The engine itself is also displayed in all its glory beneath a clear glass cover, through which special air deflectors can also be seen in the Concept. At only 684mm in length, the surprisingly compact 12-cylinder is only 166mm longer than the V8 TDI, which means that with the help of the long 2.65-metre wheelbase the sensation of space which sets the R8 apart from rivals is barely compromised.

All-LED lighting technology
Inside, the V12 TDI Concept is distinguishable by its additional aluminium and carbon fibre elements, and by its figure-hugging racing-style sports seats. On the outside, it is marked out by all-LED lights, enlarged inlet and outlet ducts at the front, side and rear, the modified rear spoiler and exclusive alloy wheels.