ACO to evaluate diesel performance.

The ACO has announced that it will examine the performance of diesel engines at Le Mans to ensure that all teams are on a level playing field for the 2007 Le Mans 24 Hours.

Audi claimed a stunning victory with its diesel powered R10 this season as Emanuele Pirro, Frank Biela and Marco Werner became the first drivers to win the famous endurance event using diesel power - as Pescarolo were unable to match the pace of the German car during the duration of the race.

Although the ACO pointed out that the difference in pace between the Audi and the Pescarolo could be down to a number of factors - including chassis and aerodynamic improvements - the diesel engine appears to have been viewed a key factor in Audi's 2006 success, with steps to be taken to equalise the performance of the diesel car once the ACO has consulted with IMSA - the body behind the American Le Mans Series where the R10 is competing for the rest of the year.

Part of the proposals will see diesel powered cars run with a smaller fuel tank to curb the fuel efficiency enjoyed by Audi during the 2006 race.

"The capacity of the fuel tank will have to be tailored so that the cars receive the same quantity of energy at every stop," a statement read. "That will mean a smaller tank for the cars with a diesel engine."

Peugeot are set to join Audi in running a diesel powered car at Le Mans in 2007.