Audi Sport’s “e-tron on Track” event in Germany showcases five high-performance electric models.
Audi Sport has always been at the forefront of innovation, and its latest event, “e-tron on Track,” held in Neuburg, Germany, was no exception. This electrifying occasion brought together five of Audi’s high-performance models, all designed with sustainability and speed in mind. The event not only showcased Audi’s technical prowess but also served as a meeting ground for motorsport legends like Tom Kristensen, Mattias Ekström, Stéphane Peterhansel, and Carlos Sainz.
These race car drivers, with their combined decades of experience and trophy collections, were visibly moved by the rapid advancements in electric drivetrains. This sentiment is not a mere fluke but an attestation to Audi’s pioneering role in electrifying motorsport. The brand first made waves in 2012, with the Audi R18 e-tron quattro claiming a victory at Le Mans, underlining the potential of hybrid drivetrains in high-stakes racing scenarios.
Among the models presented were the Le Mans Audi R18 e-tron quattro, Formula E car e-tron FE07, Dakar Rally prototype RS Q e-tron, and two show-stopping concept cars—e-tron Vision Gran Turismo and S1 e-tron quattro Hoonitron. Each model showcased Audi’s relentless dedication to combining sustainability with high performance. According to Rolf Michl, Head of Audi Motorsport, the brand continues to “set new milestones” with its alternative powertrains, attracting a global fan base and demonstrating the appeal and efficacy of electric drives.
What’s notable is that Audi’s commitment to electric drivetrains hasn’t just been confined to the racetrack. The R18 e-tron quattro, for instance, notched up three consecutive Le Mans wins from 2012 to 2014 and has influenced Audi’s broader strategy towards electric vehicles. Audi’s prowess in motorsport technology thus serves as a compelling narrative, bridging the gap between high-octane racing and everyday electric vehicles that prioritize efficiency and driving pleasure.
Tom Kristensen, the nine-time Le Mans winner, summed it up best when discussing his past experiences with the R18: “It was the most complex car I’ve ever driven.” It’s the same level of complexity and innovation that continues to be a hallmark of Audi’s electric lineup. From Stéphane Peterhansel’s drive awakening his interest in circuit racing to Carlos Sainz marveling at the 800hp Audi e-tron Vision Gran Turismo, the event was a reminder of the untapped potential of electric drivetrains.
Even the quintet’s latest addition, the Audi RS Q e-tron designed for grueling desert rallies, has been making waves with its unique energy converter and high-voltage battery. Audi’s overall victory in the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge in 2022 speaks volumes for the RS Q e-tron’s capabilities, further strengthening Audi’s narrative of combining high performance with sustainability. Audi Sport’s “e-tron on Track” event was a statement of intent, a testament to Audi’s unwavering commitment to pioneering electrified motorsport for the future. The brand is not merely dabbling in electric drives; it’s setting the pace for an industry that is becoming increasingly conscious of its environmental footprint while still delivering the thrills that make motorsport so captivating.
Image Source: Audi