The HWA EVO.R race car represents a full-circle moment for one of the most respected names in German motorsport. Developed as a competition variant of the road-going HWA EVO, this bespoke machine is specifically engineered to tackle the 2026 Nürburgring 24 Hours. It bridges the gap between the golden era of nineties touring cars and modern endurance racing technology.
Heritage Liveries and DTM Racing Lineage
Aesthetics for the HWA EVO.R race car pull directly from the legendary 190E Evo II DTM racers of the past. Iconic sponsors like Kärcher and SONAX return to grace the widened bodywork, creating a visual link to the brand’s successful history. These heritage liveries are more than just stickers; they represent a deep connection to the roots of the original super saloon.
High demand for this program has already forced the factory to expand production from two cars to three. This expansion allows more partners to join a project that has captivated fans and collectors alike. The third chassis provides extra space for sponsors who want to be part of what is arguably the most exciting debut in the SP-X special vehicle class.
Pro Am Driver Lineup and Nordschleife Ambitions
The driver roster for the HWA EVO.R race car includes names that are synonymous with the Nürburgring and DTM history. Sebastian Asch and Luca Ludwig, sons of racing legends Roland Asch and Klaus Ludwig, will take the wheel. They are joined by Markus Winkelhock, a three-time winner of the Nürburgring 24 Hours, ensuring a blend of speed and technical feedback.
Competing in the SP-X class allows HWA to showcase the HWA EVO.R race car as a unique technical demonstrator. This class is reserved for special vehicles that do not fit into standard GT3 or GT4 categories. It gives the engineering team the freedom to push the limits of the chassis while maintaining the silhouette that made the original car a global icon.
Intensive Testing and Track Development
Track testing for the HWA EVO.R race car commences this week at the Portimão circuit in Portugal to dial in the aero. The team will focus on high-speed stability and cooling efficiency before heading to the Eifel forest for final validation. These sessions are critical for refining the complex suspension geometry required for the punishing Nordschleife surface.
Engineers are working to ensure the HWA EVO.R race car can survive the extreme mechanical stress of a 24-hour marathon. Data gathered from Portimão will be used to finalize the ECU mapping and gearbox calibration. This intensive development period is a prerequisite for any vehicle aiming to compete at the sharp end of the Nürburgring’s most prestigious race.
Engine Performance and Technical Specifications
The HWA EVO.R race car utilizes the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 foundation from the HWA EVO road car. In its street-legal trim, this engine produces 450 hp / 331 kW and 550 Nm / 406 lb-ft of torque, with higher outputs expected for competition. Power is managed via a six-speed transaxle gearbox, which helps the car achieve a near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution.
The vehicle features an extensive carbon fiber body, contributing to a targeted curb weight of only 1,350 kg / 2,976 lbs. While the road-going version carries a significant MSRP of €714,000, the EVO.R variant adds specialized racing hardware for the SP-X class. Performance is optimized through a bespoke aerodynamic package designed for the high-speed demands of the Green Hell.
Summary
The HWA EVO.R race car is a masterful blend of nostalgic design and modern racing performance. By bringing back iconic sponsors and legendary names, HWA has created a program that resonates with enthusiasts across generations. It stands as a formidable contender for the 2026 Nürburgring 24 Hours and a true successor to the DTM throne.
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Source: HWA
