Audi has announced that it will launch a dedicated racing series for the TT called the Audi Sport TT Cup starting with next season.

The series will be held in Germany and neighboring countries as part of the DTM championship starting from the 2015 season. Based on the Audi TTS Coupe production model, the racing version of the new Audi TT is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol producing 310PS (306hp). The car can benefit from a brief boost of 30PS thanks to a so-called push-to-pass function.

Weighing just 1,125 kg (2,480 lbs), the Audi TT race car benefits from the all-new TT’s mix of steel and aluminum in the bodywork and sources the engine and six-speed S-tronic transmission from the production car nearly unchanged. The car also features an active differential that is electronically variable from the cockpit to improve optimal traction at the front axle.

Audi will field 24 cars in the Audi Sport TT Cup, six of which will be available for changing guest drivers. The rest of 18 cars are open to interested drivers, who can apply for their place on the grid at www.audi-motorsport.com effective immediately. The multi-stage selection process will take place in close cooperation with the Audi driving experience.

Participants in the Audi Sport TT Cup will be coached by professional racing driver Markus Winkelhock, who has already tested the TT Cup. “The Audi TT Cup is a genuine race car, ideal for rookies, yet challenging to drive. You immediately feel that you’re sitting in an Audi and recognize the close kinship with the brand’s other race cars,” he said.

The winner of the new Audi Sport TT Cup will receive support in Audi’s successful GT3 sports car program. A subsequent promotion to the DTM or the WEC (World Endurance Championship) with Audi is also possible.

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