Audi is starting to tease the next-generation R8 with this image that shows off its optional laser-high-beam headlamps. The lighting technology comes from the Audi endurance racing program – the Audi R18 e-tron Quattro Le Mans 24-hour racer was the first to use it. The limited-edition Audi R8 LMX also has this technology.
While the running lights and low beams are still LED, the high beams can be optioned with laser technology. Audi uses a phosphor converter to transform the intense blue-light laser beam into pure white light. It’s not clear whether this option will be available in the United States, where regulations currently prohibit its use.
The teaser image also reveals the overall shape of the next R8. The silhouette appears similar to the current model, but perhaps it is stretched a little. The grille looks like the one on the current Audi TT, but even more pronounced. The overall shape appears to be an evolutionary, versus revolutionary, step in design. You can also take a look at a leaked image what could be the undisguised 2016 Audi R8.
Check out this informative video about the laser headlight technology and the relationship between Audi’s motorsports program and their production cars.
And here is a TFLcar review of the last-generation Audi R8 V10 Coupe.
