Audi announced today that it is developing a racing version of the R8 - the Audi R8 GT3. The Ingolstadt plans to race the Audi R8 GT3 for the first time next year. The Audi R8 GT3 will develop more than 500 hp and will conform to the GT3 regulations. This means it will be GT rear-wheel drive instead of the typical four-wheel drive.

The Audi R8 GT3 will be equipped with a newly developed six-speed sequential sports gearbox and will have “almost” standard suspension. The Audi R8 GT3 will also feature modified front end and a large rear-wing.

Bearing the project name “R16″ within Audi Sport, the Audi R8 GT3 has already been tested this month by factory driver Frank Biela.