Audi launches one-make series based on new TT

The one-make series, based on the new Audi TT, will replace the outgoing VW Scirocco R-Cup as Germany's entry-level tin-top series.

The front-wheel-drive Audi Sport TT Cup car will produce 310 horsepower with its two-litre TFSI engine - with an extra 30 horsepower available as push-to-pass - and will weigh 1125 kilograms.

There will be 24 cars on the grid, 18 of which will be for regular series drivers and six of which will be reserved for VIP drivers, such as journalists, celebrities and retired professional drivers.

The calendar will feature six DTM races, five of which will be in Germany, with a non-German race to be revealed after the DTM has confirmed its official 2015 schedule.

There will be two 30-minute races per weekend, and a total of two hours of track time including practice and qualifying, with seats priced at €99,000 plus taxes for a season.

"The Audi TT Cup is a genuine race car, ideal for rookies, yet challenging to drive," said one-time Formula 1 driver Markus Winkelhock, who will act as a driver coach for the series.

"You immediately feel that you're sitting in an Audi and recognise the close kinship with the brand's other race cars."

"Audi fully concentrated on top-flight racing for a long time," added head of Audi Motorsport Dr Wolfgang Ullrich.

"The Audi R8 LMS in 2008 was the first race car we specifically developed for use by customer teams. With the Audi Sport TT Cup, quattro GmbH now also offers the opportunity to enter racing with Audi."