Audi in CART???

[Motor Sport Visions Photography]

That's the rumor. Daimler-Chrysler is pulling out of their deal with
Ilmor as a CART engine supplier. Audi is rumored to have had an eye on
going into CART as an engine supplier after the new engine rules changes
take effect. Now there is an opening for a manufacturer to step into
being a CART engine supplier simply by buying the rights to put their
name (and give some engineering input) to the Ilmor that has been known
first as a "Chevy" and later as a "Mercedes" engine in CART. 

While I think Audi going into CART makes some sense, I would think they
would want to have major engineering input and eventually their own
engine program once the new engine formula takes effect. Honda, Toyota,
Alfa Romeo, and Porsche all have tried doing their own engine programs
in CART in semi-recent years. Of those manufacturers Alfa failed
miserably, Porsche didn't do much better but eventually took a couple
wins, Honda and Toyota both struggled early on but now Honda is the
engine to have and Toyota's isn't bad either. Ford (with the help of
Cosworth) continues to offer competitive engines but despite being
picked to dominate this season is perhaps not quite up to the level of
the Honda or Toyota right now.

BTW, anyone see the latest Audi Sport NA (celebrating the Texas 1-2) ad
that ran during the Portland race? Great stuff.

When times are good for car sales, times are also good for motorsports
fans. Way to Audi!

Mike Veglia
Motor Sport Visions Photography
http://www.motorsportvisions.com