DTM drivers could get R10 chance

Mattias Ekstrom, Alexandre Premat, Lucas Luhr, and Mike Rockenfeller could get the chance to drive a third R10 at the French classic this year, if the team can get funding for a third entry.

Audi's head of motorsport Wolfgang Ullrich was pleased with the performance of all of the drivers.

"This test was very positive since all four drivers had prepared themselves extremely well," he said. "They all reached an exceptionally good level and more than fulfilled my expectations."

Ekstrom is the only one of the four drivers that had previous experience of the dominant Audi R8, but he was still shocked by the level of performance of the diesel-powered car.

 "It was so amazing," he said. "I felt immediately at home in the car, but I need more experience to keep calm. The power, torque and downforce are phenomenal."

Premat and Rockenfeller were also impressed with the power of the V12 engine, while Lucas Luhr was able to compare the car to the LMP2 Porsche RS Spyder he raced last year.

"You notice that the car is 150 kilograms heavier (than in LMP2), particularly when you brake or have to change direction quickly," he said.

"However, the R10 is very driveable, reacts precisely to changes and is great fun to drive."