Audi R8 LMS ultra announced

Audi has officially unveiled the 2012 R8 LMS ultra.

Essentially an evolution of the R8 LMS GT3, the car features a new hood, a larger rear wing and improved underbody aerodynamics. Elsewhere, there are carbon fiber reinforced plastic doors, enlarged side blades and wider Michelin tires.

Interior changes are minor, but include a new PS1 safety seat that provides "perfect protection and clearly surpasses the mandatory minimum [safety] requirements."

In terms of performance, the car is equipped with an optimized cooling system, revised Bilstein dampers and an upgraded transmission. There's also a new exhaust system which enables the 5.2-liter V10 engine to produce 570 PS (419 kW / 562 hp).

Pricing starts at €329,900 ($446,050) and first deliveries are scheduled for March 2012.

Check out the press release for additional information