Audi is about to set out a powerful campaign called DTM. The campaign will begin this weekend at Hockenheim. The German automaker is providing their DTM campaign with high hopes to the crown of her nearest rival Mercedes snatch. Martin Tomczyk and Tom Kristensen the Ingolstadt marque the highest scoring representatives were in 2006
wound up third and fourth at the end of the season drivers’ standings as Mercedes star racers filled four of the top six places and succeed in 60 percent of the races. Moreover
Mattias Ekstrom
formerly the series champion
finished eighth humble
but with a single victory to his name. However
currently all three are confident of the ability to turn the tables. “We are all looking for the start of the 2007 DTM season
” said seven-time Le Mans 24 Hours winner Kristensen. “Previously
Hockenheim is always a circuit that does not suit our Audi
especially the first two sectors. As we race there twice – the opener and finale – Hockenheim is of particular importance. Audi sport and the team have improved the A4 DTM noticeable in winter. It will be very interesting to see whether the step was large enough. “Tomczyk is also positive about the DTM campaign can begin. The Audi cold air and other racing parts may not be enough
but the eagerness
passion and skills of the drivers could fill up the adrenaline and performance. Race fans are confident the battle could Audi Mercedes in a more consistent basis at this time. “It is high time things finally get back to work
” joked Tomczyk. “I have high hopes for the season-opener. I like Hockenheim
so far I have always been at the forefront in qualifying and the race “I’m really curious how things are shaping the first race – especially in qualifying on Saturday
” Ekströ .
M even. “Then we will know where we stand compared to the competition. My team and I are well prepared. We have extensively tested the new Audi A4 DTM and my gut feeling is that we can be successful this year
but let’s wait and see how things really look after qualifying. Meanwhile
Christian Abt was more discerning post in the opening round
fearing last year
the Audi A4 will be no state with the 2006-spec Mercedes C-Class live at the home of the German Grand Prix. “I come to Hockenheim with mixed feelings
” the tin-top veteran hinted. “The 2006 car was very good last year sorted so little room to speed over the winter. I’m afraid we have a difficult time in A4 from last year by the year-old Mercedes at Hockenheim have. “Wolfgang Ullrich
Head of Audi Motorsport
believes that the general picture for the manufacturer would be much better than that of one year ago. Ullrich anticipates opening skirmish with a good deal of excitement and anticipation. “The season finally starts after a winter of hard work
” Ullrich said. “We are well prepared and have strengthened our team with young drivers
who made a strong impression during the tests. I am optimistic
but you only have a real idea of where you stand after two or three races have been implemented. I am sure it will be very close again and the spectators can look forward to an exciting DTM season in 2007. “
Audi’s DTM: at the tables
