DTM monocoque sets new standards

23rd January 2012

- New safety cell for Audi A5 DTM extremely efficient and safe
  
The new, standardized monocoque for every manufacturer in the DTM has already proven its worth during testing. Homologation of the race car for the DTM season 2012 occurs in a few weeks.

Beginning of a new era: the innovative safety cell in the DTM is the core component of every DTM race car. The new Audi A5 DTM is also designed and built around the new carbon fiber monocoque which is shown for the first time in photos released to the public. "The DTM sets new standards again with this safety cell," emphasizes Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. "The component is extremely strong, assembled very efficiently and, as a consequence, implemented at such a high level for reasonable cost."
 
A word from... Stefan Aicher
 
As Head of Vehicle Design you are approaching an exciting phase with the Audi A5 DTM: the homologation looms on the horizon. How effective has the innovative safety cell, which is identical for every manufacturer, proven to be so far?
"New standards are set with the cell. The first components were delivered in August, since then each manufacturer has always been delivered another chassis at exactly the same time. We are extremely satisfied after several thousand kilometers of testing."
 
What distinctive qualities does the new cell possess?
"The monocoque weighs only 126 kilograms, the roll-cage 32.5 kilos. At the same time the safety standards have increased dramatically. The design is extremely strong when subject to both frontal, longitudinal crashes and also side impacts. The entire sidewall must withstand a force of 360 kN in the side impact test, this equates to around 36 tones. By way of comparison this value was 80 kN with the A4 DTM. With various crash tests, for example frontally or laterally at 54 km/h, the driver’s chest is now exposed to a maximum load of 60g."
 
The cell is built in an entirely different way than before. What does this mean for the teams?
"The result is a very efficient interaction from the planning via manufacture to use on the track. You notice the excellent cooperation between the three manufacturers. The responsibilities were distributed among the specific brands, which accelerated the sequential development enormously. The teams will notice the longer service and inspection intervals because the monocoque is designed to have a considerably longer life. This is measurable progress aligned with high cost discipline."
 

DD Classics - Daniel Donovan

16th May 2012

New web site for Landmark Car Company

8th May 2012

Auto Italia Magazine

30th April 2012

Abarth service and parts dealer

12th April 2012

All new web site for Kimi Räikkönen launched

15th March 2012

Barnside Motors - Garage in Cookham

9th March 2012