Drive Wire for October 27, 2016: Audi Is Leaving the World Endurance Championship
The 13 time Le Mans winning manufacturer will focus on Formula E for 2017 and beyond.
Hey There. Devin Altieri here for Drive Wire on October 27, 2016.
Today on Drive Wire: After recent rumors, Audi has confirmed that they are axing their prototype program in the World Endurance Championship at the end of the 2016 season.
Audi has been an absolutely dominant force in the LMP1 class since they joined in 1999, winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans an impressive 13 times.
Instead, Audi intends to focus on their efforts in the all-electric FIA Formula E series. Audi Chairman Rupert Stadler said the switch to an all-electric racing series was important for the manufacturer as Audi cars become increasingly electric powered.
As for Audi’s other racing commitments, the carmaker has re-upped their intention to stay in the DTM series and FIA World Rallycross is still on the table, but not yet confirmed.
That’s it for Drive Wire on October 27th, 2016. I’m Devin Altieri; thanks for watching, and please check out The Drive for more on the big stories from the transportation world.