Audi released additional images and information on its latest Le Mans and WEC title fighter, which makes use of the new 2014 regulations for size, driver position, and most importantly – power.

Keeping the same name as it's predecessor, the new R18 e-tron quattro is the company's most technologically-advanced prototype racer yet, utilizing a redeveloped version of the V6 turbo diesel engine to power the rear wheels, while the e-tron quattro hybrid system is paired to the front axle. For 2014, the hybrid system is further optimized with the help of a new ERS-H (Energy Recovery System – Heat) system by taking expelled exhaust and putting it through an electric turbocharger. All of these changes make for a car that is an incredible 30 per cent more fuel efficient than the 2013 version.

The new regulations also led to drastic changes on the exterior of the car, most notably a 10 cm reduction in width, slimmer wheels, a 20 mm height gain, and a larger cockpit to accommodate a more optimized seating position and driver vision. Literally every aspect of the car has been redesigned to make use of the new regulations.

“The next Audi R18 e-tron quattro represents a completely new generation of Le Mans prototypes,” said Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich, Head of Audi Motorsport. “The principles of the LMP1 regulations have fundamentally changed. The idea behind this is to achieve similarly fast lap times as in the past with considerably less energy. Making more out of less: a forward-thinking approach.”

Specifications have not yet been announced, although the powerplant changes and additional energy system should build on the approximately 500 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. Should the German automaker reign supreme with its newest race car, it would mark a three straight successes for the R18 e-tron quattro in the WEC and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.