Audi Ready for RS5's DTM Debut at Hockenheim Next Weekend

AudiAudiGermany, 1909 > present83 models
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is ready to begin the 2013 DTM season next weekend at Hockenheim with its new RS5 DTMAudi RS 5 DTMGermany, 2013 > present5 photos
racecar. The rules have been opened this season with more tire options and a DRS rear wing similar to what is used in Formula 1. 

There are some major changes to the DTM rules this year. The new DRS in the DTM allows the driver to open the rear wing by pressing a button on the steering wheel. It allows for a 5km/h to 10km/h increase in speed. Hankook is offering the teams an option tire with more grip, but the rules stipulate that the teams can only use it for a certain number of laps. The drivers also get less track time than last season. There is only one 90-minute practice session before qualifying and then the race for this season. 

“It’s great that we’re finally getting started again. We used the winter to again perfectly prepare ourselves as a team for the new challenges of this season. With the new tactical options and shorter practice opportunities, team work is more important than ever," said Abt Sportsline Team Director Hans-Jürgen Abt.

Audi signed Jamie Green this season. It will be the first time he has raced for Audi in the DTM. He has only ever raced for MercedesMercedes-BenzGermany, 1924 > present197 models
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in the DTM before. Between 2005 and 2012, he has scored 20 podium finishes in his DTM career and finished third in the series championship last year, his best result ever. 

Audi has three teams using its car - Abt Sportsline, Phoenix Racing and Rosberg - and eight drivers. 

The first race at Hockenheim will have qualifying at 2:30pm local time on Saturday, May 4, and the race at 1:30pm local time on Sunday, May 5. The races will be broadcast live in Germany and streamed worldwide on DTM.tv.