Audi has revealed a new 562bhp version of the R8 V10, called the LMX. To be sold in limited numbers from June, Audi says the new range-topping R8 is the first production car to feature laser headlight technology as standard equipment.
The new laser headlights, which operate at speeds above 60kph, supplement the R8 LMX’s LED high-beam projectors, providing a phosphor-converted white light.
Rival BMW offers similar laser headlight technology on its new i8, albeit as an option.
Audi first hinted at the introduction of laser light technology on its road cars when it introduced it on its R18 e-tron race car. “The transfer of the laser headlight to the Audi R8 LMX underscores our leading position in lighting technology,” said Audi development boss Ulrich Hackenberg.
In 2008, the R8 became the first production car to feature LED headlights. This was followed up in 2012 by the introduction of dynamic indicators on the mid-engined Audi.
At the heart of the limited-edition R8 V10 is an uprated version of Audi’s naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 petrol engine. With 562bhp, it develops 20bhp more than the standard R8 V10.
Power is sent to all four wheels through a standard seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
Audi claims 0-100kph acceleration in 3.4sec and a 320kph top speed – 0.1sec faster than the standard R8 V10.
Together with the upgraded engine, the LMX also gets revised 19-inch wheels shod with standard 235/35 R19 tyres up front and 305/30 R19 tyres at the rear – the latter replacing the standard R8 V10’s 295/30 rubber.