Laser headlights for Audi's WEC contender

In 2014, Audi, via its all new R18 e-tron quattro, will contest in the Le Mans 24 Hours and in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) with laser light for the first time. The innovative laser complements the main LED headlights of the R18. A blue laser beam backlights a yellow phosphorus crystal lens through which the light beam is then emitted for a more homogenous lighting of the road. 

"By using this new lighting technology Audi is setting yet another milestone at Le Mans," said Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Management Board for Technical Development of Audi AG.

The FIA WEC will see Audi Sport Team, Joest, compete as the title defender in the 2014 season. In all eight races of the 2014 WEC, the World Champions will be running with two Audi R18 e-tron quattro cars. For the season's pinnacle event at Le Mans in June, the fielding of a third R18 is planned. The driver teams will be announced at a later date.

As before, the motorsport commitment of AUDI AG in the new season will continue to consist of the three pillars Le Mans prototypes (LMP1), DTM and GT sport. In addition, Audi Sport is preparing for its move into the new Motorsport Competence Centre in Neuburg in the summer of 2014.