HWA Evo.R N24 Entry Revealed Sporting DTM Battledress

Deepening the links between past and present are Sebastian Asch and Luca Ludwig. If those names ring a bell it's because they’re the sons of DTM royalty Roland Asch and Klaus Ludwig, key figures in the 190E’s all-conquering 1992 season. They’ll be joined by N24 veteran Markus Winkelhock, a three-time overall winner at the Nordschleife. The Winkelhock name has legacy too; RUSH readers might be familiar with his uncle, Joachim "Smokin' Jo" Winkelhock, who claimed the 1993 BTCC driver’s title for BMW.

The Evo.R will compete in the SP-X class designated for non-homologation vehicles and prototypes. Given the last time anything other than a GT3 car won was in 2009, it’s unlikely to be a candidate for overall honours – but its authentic period aero, dramatically extended arches and yellow-tinged headlights will make it a firm fan favourite.

HWA is keeping its cards close to its chest regarding specification, however the roadgoing variant gives us an idea of what to expect. Built around a W201 donor, it runs the M276 3.0-litre bi-turbo V6 from the previous-generation AMG E43 developing 443bhp in standard form, or 493bhp with the optional Affalterbach Pack. The new motor is mounted in a front-mid transaxle layout targeting a 50:50 weight distribution, and surrounded with carbon fibre body panels keeping weight down to 1,360kg – despite the modern powertrain – whilst contributing to a two-fold increase in torsional rigidity.

The suspension overhaul goes even further. The track has been stretched by 300mm, which is underpinned by DTM-derived double wishbones at all four corners with adjustable KW dampers. There are even billet-machined wheel carriers that share their bearing specification with Mercedes’ factory armoured vehicles, which should bode well for an endurance racer. The road car also features Brembo six-pot calipers up front, although it remains to be seen if the N24 entrant will run the six-speed manual, or change to a modern sequential to cut lap times and enhance reliability.

All three cars will run different title sponsorships, with Kärcher and SONAX already confirmed, both of whom have ties to the original DTM programme. As does HWA itself: the brand stands for Hans Werner Aufrecht – the A in AMG. All three cars are currently in build, with testing beginning this week at Portimão. 

“Having been involved in top level motorsport at the Nürburgring for over 25 years, the circuit is like a second home to us,” said Martin Marx, CEO of HWA. “We are naturally incredibly excited to finally be competing in a car of our own, but to see that excitement matched by so many drivers, fans, customers and sponsors makes it all the more special.” We’ll find out how they do on 17 May, 2026.