German automaker Audi, announced today that it will stage the world premiere of the motorsport version of the R8 at the Essen Motor Show that runs from November 28 to December 7. The 500HP-plus, rear-wheel-drive Audi R8 GT3 is destined for track use in various national and international race series around the world. Power will be transmitted to the rear wheels through a newly developed six-speed sequential sports gearbox while the R8 GT3's suspension will mostly use components from the production model. For those interested, the R8 GT3 will be available for order from autumn 2009.