Spotted: Audi is currently evaluating its newly unveiled Nuvolari supercar at the Nurburgring.

Spotted: Audi is currently evaluating its newly unveiled Nuvolari supercar at the Nurburgring.

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      Following its surprising debut, the Audi Nuvolari supercar prototype has already been seen undergoing tests at the Nurburgring. The company's sudden reveal bears a strong resemblance to the previous R8, but sources indicate it is something entirely different—an even more aspirational vehicle featuring a twin-turbocharged V8 with "approximately" 1,000 horsepower.

      How did Audi manage to create such an impressive machine seemingly out of nowhere? We don’t have to look far back in the company's model history for an explanation. Similar to the R8, the Nuvolari will share its foundation with a Lamborghini, specifically the Temerario. This loud Lamborghini will also provide the Nuvolari's powertrain (including electric motors), though it will generate more power in the R8.

      According to Audi, with the combination of the V8 and its three axial-flux motors, the Nuvolari should accelerate to 60 mph in merely 2.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 217 mph. This hybrid system offers an electric-only mode, but Audi is not ready to announce a range figure at this time. For reference, the Lamborghini can only travel about five miles on a single charge.

      The camouflage on this prototype is quite extensive, but the shape beneath is unmistakable. We can also observe the Nuvolari’s deployable rear wing functioning in action. It has three settings: Closed, Low Downforce, and High Downforce. In its most aggressive configuration, it produces 882 pounds of downforce, according to Audi.

      Based on Audi's details, the images likely show the "Closed" (below) and "Low Downforce" (above) positions.

      Audi is also diligently working to minimize the Nuvolari’s curb weight. While the hybrid powertrain won’t aid in this area, its advanced carbon body will certainly contribute. The intricate body shell is a factor in why Audi is producing so few of these—only 499 units.

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Spotted: Audi is currently evaluating its newly unveiled Nuvolari supercar at the Nurburgring. Spotted: Audi is currently evaluating its newly unveiled Nuvolari supercar at the Nurburgring. Spotted: Audi is currently evaluating its newly unveiled Nuvolari supercar at the Nurburgring. Spotted: Audi is currently evaluating its newly unveiled Nuvolari supercar at the Nurburgring. Spotted: Audi is currently evaluating its newly unveiled Nuvolari supercar at the Nurburgring. Spotted: Audi is currently evaluating its newly unveiled Nuvolari supercar at the Nurburgring. Spotted: Audi is currently evaluating its newly unveiled Nuvolari supercar at the Nurburgring.

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