Initial details for R8's successor leave us grinning with joy

Audi's ventured into the supercar territory with the stunning R8 back in 2006. A cocktail of technologies and industrial know-how, the R8 was such a capable sports car that very little has changed in its product cycle thus far.

A replacement model is expected to be unveiled in 2015 and may have an evolution more than a revolution product philosophy. If rumours are true, cosmetic changes may include a more prominent single-frame grille that will eventually be worn on all Audi's RS-badged models, a new matrix-beam LED lights with an updated daytime running light design, and a sideblade design that does not extend to the roofline.

Weight saving methods and technologies may be inspired from the R8 LMS racer with the 2015 R8 possibly to feature a carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) bonnet and roof to save weight, with the appearance of the double diffuser from the Le Mans winning LMP1 race car to generate downforce.

The Multimaterial Spaceframe body from the R8 e-tron may also underpin the 2015 R8 - which uses 23 percent carbon fibre in its construction to save 23kg of weight. Also likely to be included are the glass fibre-reinforced polymer suspension springs, CFRP anti-roll bars, ceramic brakes and titanium rear wheel hubs.

It is unlikely Audi will follow the likes of Ferrari, McLaren or even Porsche to bundle an electric power unit with a naturally aspirated engine. The 2015 model could carry a revised version of the current V8 and V10 naturally with power hikes and an improvement in fuel economy.