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David Vincent/AP/Press Association Images

Audi clinches Le Mans 24-Hour title

The victory marks the first occasion in the event’s 79-year history that a team using a hybrid car has claimed the top prize.

GERMAN CAR MANUFACTURER Audi secured an historic victory in the Le Mans 24-Hour on Sunday, becoming the first team sponsor to claim the prestigious title using hybrid technology.

The R18 e-tron Quattro of drivers Andre Lotterer, Benoit Treluyer and Marcel Fassler completed the 378-lap race with a cushion of a single circuit over its sister car, helmed by Allan McNish, Tom Kristensen and Rinaldo Capello.

Another Audi, the R18 Ultra Marci Bonanomi, Oliver Jarvis and Mike Rockenfeller, finished third to complete the giant’s sweep of the podium placings.

Speaking after the race, Lotterer attributed his team’s handling and confidence to the technology at its disposal:

“This new technology gave us lots of confidence in the corners… So it’s great to be part of this great challenge that Audi has in Le Mans.”

A dramatic crash marred Saturday’s racing, during which driver Anthony Davidson flipped his Toyota. He later described himself as “just happy to be alive”.

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