Audi is ready and waiting for the upcoming challenge of BMW, as they have just jumped into Germany's DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters) series. In light of these recent developments, Audi's motorsport division has released some cool previews of their R17 A5 to begin competing in 2012. BMW now knows more about one of the challenges that await them in DTM. The new Audi racer will be based off of their current A4. The A5 will run a V8 that can produce 460hp.

Expected to be lowered and widened, a nice low center of gravity will help it cope with the curvaceous and crowded roadways. The carbon fiber monocoque existent on all DTM series cars will underpin the chassis. A steel roll cage, full fire suppression system, and Zylon and Rohacell construction on the sides for high speed impact control are some of the tools that Audi hopes will lead the A5 to success. "We've got exactly the right model for that in the A5. We're convinced that we'll be able to continue Audi's success story with it in the DTM," said Wolfgang Ullrich, head of Audi Motorsport.

The Audi A5 DTM racecar will debut at this year's Frankfurt Auto Show in September. The DTM series is scheduled to come to the U.S. in 2013.