Udi took the world of endurance by surprise on Monday, when it announced that it was preparing to return to the 24-man lens with the LMDH program, joining the global stage of endurance racing in past rivals such as Toyota and Peugeot.
Since the turn of the millennium, with unbroken strings close to victory between 2000 and 2014, little brands have become synonymous with Le Mans like Udi D.
Thanks to a small part in their diesel technology, Udi de Porsche has become the second most successful manufacturer of Le Mans behind and allowed Tom Christensen to become the most successful driver in the race so far in the French endurance classic with nine overall wins.
With the news of Udi’s return in everyone’s mind, Motorsportweek.com explores history books to explore how Udi became the biggest name in Le Mans.
Early years
Diesel wars begin
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2006: O10 wins first diesel victory in Le Mans history with R10 over D10 -
2007: Diesel wars begin with the arrival of Peugeot – but Udi DA defeats their French rivals to win seventh place. -
2008: Peugeot took the pole and led early, allowing rain to catch Udi D in the second half and a third straight win – but the distance was tight. -
2009: Udi introduces R15 but struggles as Peugeot takes one-two to end five-year winning streak