The Audi R8 was launched in 2006 and first produced in 2007. Over subsequent years Audi has introduced various models of the R8, a car that stands out for its blend of supercar prowess and practicality.
Some Audi R8 models do have launch control, such as the Audi R8 V10 Plus and the Audi R8 GT. This launch control allows the Audi R8 V10 Plus to go from 0-60 mph in under three seconds.
The impressive speed which the V10 Plus can obtain in such a short amount of time thanks to launch control makes this vehicle an appealing choice for many supercar enthusiasts. Additionally, supercar fans also benefit from models including the R8 GT and the R8 Performance which also offers launch control.
What is launch control?
Launch control is an electronic system designed to allow a car to accelerate from a standing start as fast, efficiently, and consistently as possible. It carries out a variety of roles, from eliminating wheel spin to maximizing the use of power and traction for maximum acceleration within the shortest amount of time.
In most cars, a launch control setting needs to be selected. The driver then applies the brake for a certain period of time while flooring the accelerator to get the rev counter to a particular limit.
Once the limit is reached, the driver releases the brake and applies the accelerator in pursuit of minimal wheelspin and maximized acceleration.
Launch control systems normally use a dual-clutch transmission as they enable quicker and more efficient gear shifts than a single-clutch transmission. Additionally, launch control benefits from an ABS system that applies the brakes to any slipping wheel to boost traction.
By regulating engine output, launch control provides maximized thrust in a controlled way while still retaining traction. This offers a much easier way to attain maximum acceleration from a standing start compared to a vehicle with no launch control system that requires greater driver input and control.
The Audi R8 V10 Plus
While the first generation of Audi R8 cars featured V8 engines and manual transmissions, the brand switched to V10s for the second generation of the Audi R8. Audi also dished up two options in 2016, the standard Audi R8 V10 and for a little extra oomph, the Audi R8 V10 Plus.
The V10 provided 540 hp while the V10 Plus offered 610 hp. Once situated behind the wheel of the V10 Plus, a driver can initiate the launch control system through a straightforward set of steps in order to get that hard-to-beat thrill of a supercar leaping into action at high speed.
The Audi R8 gets another update for 2020
Audi isn’t a brand to sit back and rest on its laurels when it can get on with the business of improving its cars to make them even more honed machines. Case in point, the Audi R8 which underwent a makeover once again for 2020.
So what can drivers expect? The 2020 Audi R8 comes in a choice of models including the standard R8 with 562 hp and the R8 Performance with 602 hp.
The Audi R8 has received a style update, with an aggressively handsome exterior aesthetic. Additionally, both models also feature improved braking power.
Those with a need for speed will appreciate the R8 Performance’s launch control, which is easy to use and provides no shortage of enjoyment for those looking to go fast as efficiently as possible.
The future of the Audi R8
Audi is strongly pursuing electric cars and there is the possibility that the R8 will be discontinued. Despite its popularity spanning a decade, the Audi R8 V10 Quattro has been discontinued from Audi’s North American lineup.
However, there is a chance that Audi could retain the R8 in a revamped format by producing future R8 models as electric cars. Much depends on how feasible it is to transition the R8 to an electric version, as well as consumer demand.
Maximum speed with minimal effort
While some car enthusiasts will value the finesse required for manually launching cars quick off the mark, there’s no denying that launch control provides the fun and thrills of high speed in minimal time with much less effort on the driver’s part.
Launch control in an Audi R8 brings that enhanced supercar feel in an easily controlled manner. Music to the ears of many an appreciative Audi enthusiast.