The Audi R18 is a Le Mans Prototype (LMP) racing car constructed by the German car manufacturer Audi AG. It is the successor to the Audi R15 TDI. Like its predecessor, the R18 uses a TDI turbocharged diesel engine but with a reduced capacity of 3.7 litres and in a V6 configuration. For the first time since the 1999 R8C, the Audi Le Mans prototype used a closed cockpit design. The R18 is also the first racing car from Audi to feature hybrid power.
The Audi R18 at the 2016 Paris Motor Show.
Audi R18 TDI Ultra at the 1000km of Spa 2011, its debut race
Top view of the Audi R18 e-tron quattro at the 2012 6 Hours of Fuji, driven by André Lotterer
Audi R18 e-tron quattro (Overall & LMP1 class winner, 2012 24 Hours of Le Mans)
A Le Mans Prototype (LMP) is a type of sports prototype race car used in various races and championships, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans, FIA World Endurance Championship, IMSA SportsCar Championship, European Le Mans Series and Asian Le Mans Series. Le Mans Prototypes were created by the Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO). The technical requirements for an LMP include bodywork covering all mechanical elements of the car. As of 2023, there are two classes within Le Mans Prototypes, designated LMP2 and LMP3.
A group of Le Mans Prototypes competing in the American Le Mans Series, 2007
Audi R10 TDI in the 2008 12 Hours of Sebring, 2008
An early Riley & Scott Mk III, which competed in IMSA's WSC class
A Bentley Speed 8 as used in 2003
