Aditya Patel tests Audi R8 LMS for ADAC GT Masters in Motorsport Arena Oschersleben

Oschersleben, December 01, 2011 - Aditya Patel became the first Indian driver to test the Audi R8 LMS for the upcoming season of ADAC GT Masters in Oschersleben, Germany today. Aditya did 15 laps in the morning followed by a Race simulation of 5 laps and a 35 minute race distance run. Aditya debuted internationally in 2009 with Volkswagen Polo Cup in Germany. In 2010 he graduated to Volkswagen Scirocco R-Cup. Recently concluded season of Scirocco R-Cup 2011 saw him finish fifth overall including a win and two podiums.

A visibly happy Aditya said, "The test was a big surprise for me. It's almost like an early Christmas gift. I thought the car would be much harder to drive but it was just super fun! During the morning session I did 15 laps and felt quite confident in the car. I think I almost tested the limit of the car a little bit. Rene Rast and the engineers helped me understand the car before the first session and it was really useful. After the first session we looked at the data and in most parts of the circuit it was really good. There are areas where I can improve, especially the braking. I have to learn to brake harder".

He further added," Throughout the test I was able to control the car very well. Compared to the Scirocco, the Audi has a lot more downforce and a lot more grip. The car is lower and tyres are bigger. The car has fantastic balance and feels very neutral on fast corners. On the long straight Audi did about 250 kmph compared to the Scirocco which does about 210 kmph. I’m grateful to the Volkswagen group for giving me this opportunity. If I could drive the ADAC GT Masters or a GT3 Car in a championship next year, it would be a dream come true."

2011 season of ADAC GT Masters had 146 drivers taking part from in 16 races from 17 nations. Besides Audi, car manufacturing brands like BMW, Porsche, Corvette, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Mercedes, Ford and Alpina participated in the last season. McLaren will be debuting in the 2012 season. Audi R8 LMS was the most successful car with three victories in 2011. Since its debut in 2009, Audi R8 LMS has won 15 races.

- Volkswagen Motorsport