I am sure that most of you have noticed various stories about Audi's incredible new R10 racer, which is looking very strong ahead of its debut this weekend in the ALMS race series Stateside.
It seemed strange that Audi should put an 'oil burner' in an endurance racer, but actually this decision isn't so dumb, considering how fast, agile and responsive the car is. More to the point, Audi has clearly decided that its racing program should impact its road car development. In this sense, racing not only builds brand kudos but serves as a test bed for both perfecting technologies and building consumer acceptance of them.
As I've mentioned elsewhere, there is a persistent rumour that Audi will launch a high-performance diesel engine in its line-up. The obvious models to take it are the A8, Q7 and A6. The V-12 TDI on the R10 could well be a forerunner for a similar engine in these cars and if it triumphs on the track, who knows, we could even see this engine in the road-going R8.
Behind Audi's racing program, I detect a desire to create cars that blend performance with economy. Audi is clearly leaping ahead of the competition through technology in this area. Audi's leadership through Martin Winterkorn is incredible, to the point where Audi all but makes makes the Volkswagen brand pointless. (If you want a cheap Audi, buy a SEAT or a Skoda, not a Golf!!!)
Of course, it isn't just diesel technology that is driving research. SAAB's new bio-ethanol car, which uses a fuel that is only 15% petrol, delivers 20% improved performance over standard fuels. Meanwhile, Mercedes is experimenting with a hybrid petrol/ diesel technology: the Diesotto engine, which also uses an interesting cocktail of fuels to achieve greater economy.
While everyone is looking to hydrogen for future power, the internal combustion engine seems to have plenty of life left in it. Personally, I think hydrogen-powered cars will be very exciting - when they arrive. In the meantime, I shall be very happy to drive an Audi that delivers 600 bhp and 30 mpg. What about you?