Audi's traditional pre-race conference was packed. After a technical presentation on engine preparation for the race, the conference was addressed by Dr Wolfgang Ullrich, Head of Audi Sport and Ralf Jüttner, Technical Director. Before going to the big parade in the centre of Le Mans, the nine drivers responded to questions from the press.

Michael Dick, head of technical development at Audi AG, explained the synergies between road cars and racing, and also the improvment in engine performance over the years despite the reduction the displacement. The new regulation fits perfectly with the philosophy of the German automaker, a pioneer of supercharged engines as the prime mover of this type back in the days of Auto-Union, the forerunner of Audi.

Dr. Ullrich then turned to the race itself: "I am proud of front row for all the people who worked very hard all year to prepare the car. The pole position gives even more motivation to the team and we have already shown that the car is fast. Our goal was to compete with Peugeot in terms of speed. We must now focus on the race because the speed is not enough: the have to not make mistakes. It is not easy because we have less experience than Peugeot with closed cars and even if we try to anticipate everything that could happen, I think we'll discover things we had ever thought of in the race. "

Ralf Jüttner was satisfied because the objective was to produce both a vehicle that met the desires of drivers, so comfortable, but also a fast vehicle, so aerodynamically efficient. The pilots confirmed the riding comfort and Allan McNish has stressed the importance that was given to ergonomics.

As for the winners of last year, they are determined to keep the number 1 on their car, as stated by Timo Bernhard: "The pressure from fans is greater than last year because we've shown that we capable of winning. Our goal this year is to retain the number 1 on the car and we have the car to do it. "

Benoit Treluyer, pole-sitter with car #2, "Any Audi driver could have taken the pole. The LEDs (Audi LED headlights), helped me for night vision: I saw oil on the track before it was reported..."

A few minutes after the end of the session, the drivers donned their race suits to visit the city centre for the parade of drivers before the big day tomorrow.

Cecile Bonardel

PHOTO: LE MANS, 24 HOURS OF LE MANS, June 9, 2011. Dr. Ullrich in full working mode during qualifying.