McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

Audi News

Audi news from duPont REGISTRY News, updated daily with model reveals, first drives, technology launches and verified performance figures. Our coverage runs across the RS models and the expanding e-tron range, together with the road cars that sit beneath them. Audi is moving quickly on electrification, and we report each development as it is confirmed. Plenty of publications carry performance car news, but few carry it beside live inventory. Many of the Audis covered here appear on the duPont REGISTRY marketplace, so a review and a genuine asking price sit together. That combination is difficult to find anywhere else in luxury car news. For Audi news today, begin with the stories below.

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 11, 2024

Audi's Electrifying Success: Record EV Sales in 2023

Audi has made a monumental leap in the automotive industry by delivering around 1.9 million cars in 2023, marking a significant milestone. This impressive figure includes over 178,000 fully electric vehicles, a substantial 51% increase from the previous year, showcasing Audi's relentless dedication to electromobility. The upcoming world premiere of the Audi Q6 e-tron at the end of the first quarter of 2024 highlights this direction. The year 2023 saw Audi an increase in all global markets, outpacing general market growth. Europe, the USA, and China, Audi's core markets, experienced remarkable sales growth, with Hildegard Wortmann, Audi's Board Member for Sales and Marketing, attributing this success to the combined efforts of their international team and dealership network. Audi's electric models, especially the Q4 e-tron, which saw a 112% increase in demand, are at the forefront of this transformation. The Q6 e-tron's debut also introduces the new Premium Platform Electric (PPE), tailored exclusively for electric models. Despite challenges, Audi's improved supply situation allowed for better meeting the high demands of popular models like the Audi Q5, A6, and A4. Audi Sport also saw a 5% increase in high-performance vehicle deliveries. In Europe, Audi's deliveries soared by 20%, with electric models growing by 30%, led by the Q4 e-tron. Germany witnessed a 17% increase in Audi deliveries, while the USA celebrated its best sales year with a 22% increase, and China showed a solid 13% rise. This remarkable performance by Audi in 2023 sets a dynamic course for its future in the electrification era. View all Audi models currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Audi For Sale Audi grows in all core markets worldwide Source: Audi

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 03, 2024

The New Audi Q8 e-tron Edition Dakar: Electrifying Off-Ro...

An electric SUV inspired by the Dakar Rally, blending off-road prowess with eco-friendly performance. Audi redefines off-road electric driving with the launch of the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar, a limited production SUV inspired by the adrenaline-pumping Dakar Rally. This reflects Audi's commitment to sustainable mobility but also demonstrates its expertise in delivering high-performance vehicles tailored for its community of adventure enthusiasts. The Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar, available for order in the first quarter of 2024, is based on the Q8 advanced 55 e-tron quattro. The electrified Audi Q8 comes equipped with a robust 106 kWh battery that allows the vehicle to power through any type of terrain. Its quattro drivetrain, paired with two motors, delivers an impressive 300 kW in boost mode and 490 lb-ft of torque, ensuring swift acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.8 seconds with standard tires. The optional General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tires further enhance its performance, achieving the same speed in 5.9 seconds. One of the standout features of the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar is its increased ground clearance, making it ideal for varied terrains like gravel or snow. The Q8's dynamic suspension system further enhances its performance, adjusting the ground clearance based on speed to optimize driving stability, aerodynamics, and range. The Q8 e-tron edition Dakar comes available in three metallic colors: Siam Beige, Mythos Black, and Magnetic Gray. The LED lights projecting “edition Dakar” onto the street upon opening the driver’s door and the exclusive key cover with special branding highlight the unique character of this special model. Limited to 99 units, the wrapped models of the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar features a unique decal package inspired by the legendary RS Q e-tron. Ready to take on 2024, the all-new Audi Q8 e-tron Edition Dakar is set to hit the market with an MSRP of $131,000. View all Audi Q8 examples currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Audi Q8 For Sale Source: Audi

By Tyler Rampersaud – December 22, 2023

Audi Prepares The RS Q e-tron For The 2024 Dakar Rally

Audi continues to prove the exciting prospects of electric performance. For the past two iterations of the legendary Dakar Rally, Audi has brought to it one of its most innovative high-performance creations: the RS Q e-tron. The all-electric rally car was the first T1U (alternative powertrains) model to be developed for the Dakar Rally, and it first ran the race in 2022. This coming January, the RS Q e-tron will be participating in its third Dakar Rally, racing a distance of nearly 5,000 miles. Its ultimate goal is to prove that a low-emission electric vehicle can demonstrate the same incredible performance and rally racing ability that a gasoline-powered counterpart can, thus preserving the challenge and excitement of one of the most unique motorsports while transitioning from gasoline to electric power. In order to optimize the car for the 2024 Dakar Rally, Audi has given the RS Q e-tron various improvements throughout. The cockpit is improved to protect the driver and co-driver better against the harsh desert elements, while other improvements to the battery, and other parts of the car reduce maintenance time and increase its reliability, which is a paramount concern on the rally stage. Rather than simply being a challenge of great distance, the Dakar Rally features a range of some of the world’s harshest elements and environmental conditions, all in the Empty Quarter desert in Saudi Arabia. With the distance and conditions combined, the rally not only requires the car to be strong but also its team and drivers. Driver Stéphane Peterhansel physically trains and diets in preparation, while his co-driver pays close attention to the strategic concerns of the race. WIth the new 2024 iteration of the RS Q e-tron on a mission to prove the validity of electric power in the rallying world, fans around the world are excited to see what it will be able to do once the flag drops for the race to begin. View All Audis For Sale Image Source: Audi

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 11, 2023

Audi Unveils The RS e-tron GT 'Ice Race Edition' For Its ...

Audi Sport marks its 40th anniversary with a spectacular creation: the RS e-tron GT Ice Race Edition, inspired by the exhilarating GP Ice Race in Zell am See, Austrian Alps. This special edition, limited to just 99 examples, is a tribute to the event's historic blend of racing and skijoring, where cars pull skiers in a thrilling alpine spectacle. Priced at $190,000, the RS e-tron GT Ice Race Edition is based on the concept show car and showcases a silver, white, and violet color livery, inspired by the crystalline beauty of snow and ice. The collaboration between Audi Design and the Audi exclusive personalization team has resulted in a visually striking livery, featuring a Florett Silver metallic finish with a black CFRP roof. The car is decorated with a unique foil wrap, highlighting snow crystals and ice lakes, with vibrant violet accents reminiscent of winter sports eyewear. The interior continues the theme with an Audi-exclusive leather package, combining diamond silver and black with violet stitching. Fine Nappa leather extends beyond the seats, enhancing the luxury feel. The RS floormats and Audi exclusive insignias add to the car's bespoke character. The RS e-tron GT Ice Race Edition also features a digital twist. The MMI screen displays a custom background and the car's unique serial number, a first for Audi's 'physical' badge tradition. Ambient lighting complements the theme, turning purple with a mountain motif selection. Owners will enjoy an array of premium features, including Front Sport Seats Pro with ventilation and massage functions, Bang & Olufsen 3D audio, and comprehensive driver assistance technologies like the Remote Park Assist Plus system. The RS e-tron GT Ice Race Edition is equipped with Matrix LED headlights, ceramic brakes, adaptive air suspension, and e-quattro all-wheel drive. It delivers 590 horsepower, peaking at 655 horsepower in boost mode, and offers a 295-mile range on a full charge, with rapid charging capabilities. This limited edition model commemorates Audi Sport's heritage while also showcasing the brand's commitment to the luxury electric vehicle sector. View all Audi RS e-tron GT examples currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Audi RS e-tron GT For Sale Source: Audi

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 29, 2023

Audi Upgrades Its Off-Road RS Q-etron Race Car For The 20...

Audi unveils upgraded RS Q e-tron for 2024 Dakar Rally, focusing on enhanced safety, reliability, comfort, performance, and reduced maintenance times. Audi has announced some significant improvements to its RS Q e-tron rally prototype, gearing up for its third appearance in the Dakar Rally in January 2024. The off-road EV race car, renowned for its innovative electric drivetrain, benefits from a series of updates aimed at enhancing safety, reliability, comfort, performance, and maintenance efficiency. The Audi driver teams, including notable racers such as Mattias Ekström, Stéphane Peterhansel, and Carlos Sainz, are set to benefit from these advancements. Safety has been a primary concern, especially following accidents in the 2023 rally. Audi has made strides in load distribution through adjustments to the chassis, including the springs, dampers, and bump stops. Enhanced seat foam design further reduces peak loads on the driver and co-driver, contributing to improved occupant protection. In terms of reliability, Audi has refined the drivetrain and introduced new design elements to prevent damage from external factors like penetrating stones. The use of more robust rims and stronger sidewalls in tires also contributes to the vehicle's resilience in harsh rally conditions. Comfort enhancements include better acoustic shielding and cockpit sealing, along with a redesigned front bonnet to keep the windshield clearer. Performance-wise, Audi has explored various avenues, from chassis adjustments to software updates. The 2024 regulations also favor the RS Q e-tron, allowing for increased power output. Finally, maintenance efficiency has been a focus area, with Audi introducing practical solutions to streamline servicing tasks during rally events. This extensive update to the RS Q e-tron showcases Audi's dedication to innovation and competitiveness in the challenging Dakar Rally. View all current Audi models currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Audi For Sale Source: Audi

By Tyler Rampersaud – November 16, 2023

Audi Is Building A New EV Factory In China

The plant, focusing on digitalization and sustainability, sets to revolutionize electric vehicle production. Audi is propelling its electrification journey forward with the construction of a new, state-of-the-art electric vehicle (EV) factory in Changchun, China. This groundbreaking venture, a collaboration between Audi and its Chinese partner FAW (First Automotive Works), marks a significant milestone in Audi's global strategy, emphasizing digitalization, efficiency, and sustainability. At the heart of Audi's electrification strategy for China, the Audi FAW NEV Company is a pioneer in Audi's global expansion. This new facility is not just another plant; it is Audi's first in China dedicated exclusively to all-electric vehicles. Helmut Stettner, CEO of Audi FAW NEV Company Ltd., points out the plant's pivotal role in advancing the region's economic development and establishing a comprehensive industrial ecosystem around the new site. The journey began in March 2021 when Audi and FAW Group founded Audi FAW NEV Company, marking a historical moment as the first joint company in China where Audi holds a majority stake. Progress has been swift and significant. By June 2022, the company commenced the construction of the new production site, and in November, they celebrated the completion of the building shells. Come 2024, the plant will buzz with activity as personnel move in, and by the end of the year, the series production of the first all-electric models is set to commence. What sets this factory apart is its sheer scale and futuristic approach. Spanning over 154 hectares, it's slightly larger than Audi's plant in Neckarsulm. With a capacity to produce up to 150,000 fully electric Audi models annually, the plant will initially focus on three models from the Audi A6 e-tron and Q6 e-tron series. The production site will cover the entire automotive production value chain, signifying Audi's commitment to comprehensive manufacturing excellence. Digitalization plays a crucial role in the construction and operation of this new factory. Audi has leveraged digital twins and 3D technology from the start, ensuring precision and efficiency in every aspect of the production process. International collaboration is enhanced through VR technology, allowing construction experts from Ingolstadt to virtually visit and collaborate with their Chinese counterparts in real-time. Sustainability is at the forefront of Audi's vision. As part of its global environmental program “Mission:Zero”, Audi is committed to achieving net carbon-neutral production. The Changchun plant will use 100 percent green energy, with rooftop solar panels generating substantial electricity annually. The factory will also feature a closed water cycle, emphasizing Audi's dedication to responsible water use and resource efficiency. Audi FAW NEV Company is a beacon of innovation and sustainability. With the integration of intelligent fault detection, real-time monitoring, and predictive algorithms, the company is setting new benchmarks in efficient, sustainable, and digital manufacturing. As Audi forges ahead with its new EV factory in China, it not only reaffirms its commitment to the future of mobility but also demonstrates its dedication to environmental stewardship and technological innovation. This venture is a testament to Audi's vision of driving progress and shaping the future of electric mobility. View All Audis For Sale Image Source: Audi

By Tyler Rampersaud – November 07, 2023

Hoonigan Announces Its Final Ken Block Video: Electrikhana 2

Ken Block’s incredible stunt show is back one last time. There’s no debate that Ken Block was a legend in the automotive world. His rally career, unique sense of style, and his undeniable talent for off-road driving and executing awe-inspiring stunts was nothing short of mythical. However, his untimely passing on January 2 of this year cut short an incredible era of enthusiasts witnessing his creativity, talent, and his showcasing of the greatest in automotive engineering, most prominently the world-famous Gymkhana series of videos, in which behind the wheel of iconic performance machines, Block pulled off unthinkable and seemingly impossible tricks. However, Gymkhana isn’t over just yet. With a new trailer, Hoonigan has announced the final return of Ken Block’s series in the form of Electrikhana 2. Known for spurring change in automotive culture and sending shockwaves through the car enthusiast world, the announcement of Ken Block’s final Gymkhana is sure to drum up excitement. Taking place in Mexico City, Ken Block's Audi S1 Hoonitron takes on the bullfighting ring, airport, and expansive streets and highways are a sharp contrast from the first Electrikhana’s setting of the nighttime Las Vegas Strip. Unfortunately, this upcoming Electrikhana 2 would be the last video project that Hoonigan did with Ken Block, and the final Ken Block Gymkhana video is set to be released at long last this December. Fans around the world are surely preparing to experience the epic Gymkahana viewing experience, but more importantly the final instance of Ken Block’s legendary creation as we know it. View All Audis For Sale

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By Tyler Rampersaud – November 02, 2023

Audi Bids Farewell To The TT With A New TT Roadster Final...

Audi's TT Roadster Final Edition bids farewell with an exclusive Goodwood Green design, limited to just 50 units in the U.S. As the automotive industry ushers in an era of electric powertrains and autonomous technology, there's something bittersweet about bidding adieu to a classic. Audi's TT Roadster Final Edition is exactly that—a parting homage to a vehicle that not only redefined Audi's design language but also captured the essence of open-top driving. The 2023 Audi TT Roadster Final Edition is a celebration, a retrospective, and a finale all in one. It stands out with its Audi exclusive Goodwood Green pearl effect—a hue that pays respect to the original color options available with the first-gen TT Roadster. This distinct shade accentuates the TT's timeless design, promising to turn heads and stir the souls of both auto aficionados and casual onlookers. Under the hood, the TT Roadster houses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine that delivers 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Teamed with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and quattro all-wheel drive, it sprints from 0-60 mph in a brisk 5.5 seconds. The performance is further sharpened by 20-inch 10-Y-spoke design forged wheels and an Audi magnetic ride suspension that promises agility and precision on any road. This special model isn't just stylish and nostalgic, but it's also luxurious. The interior, draped in Palomino Brown leather with exclusive stitching, evokes the craftsmanship of the past while promising comfort that is very much of the present. Audi extends this luxury to even the smallest details, such as the exclusive floor mats and carbon fiber inlays that echo the TT's sporty DNA. The S sport seats with neck-level heating ensure comfort when cruising with the top down on those crisp mornings. And speaking of the convertible top, it's not just any top. This one's finished in a refined gray, capable of operating at speeds up to 31 mph, taking mere 10 seconds to retract. It's these thoughtful touches that celebrate the TT's legacy as a trendsetter. What began in 1998 as a bold statement with the TT Coupe, quickly expanding to a Roadster variant the following year, the TT series has been much more than just cars. They have been emblematic of Audi's commitment to pioneering design and technology, from introducing the electronically deployable rear spoiler to the revolutionary Audi virtual cockpit. But all good things come to an end. With the TT Roadster Final Edition, Audi closes the chapter on this icon with only 50 units destined for U.S. showrooms, priced at $67,800, excluding destination charges. It's transcends being just a car; it's a collectible, a memory, a piece of history. As the Audi TT takes its final bow, this exclusive Final Edition stands as a fitting tribute to a car that, for many, was far more than just a mode of transport. It was, and for these lucky 50 owners, will continue to be, a symbol of the joy and freedom that only a roadster of this caliber can offer. View All Audi TTs For Sale Image Source: Audi

By Tyler Rampersaud – October 30, 2023

Audi Sport Unveils Electrifying Lineup at "e-tron on Trac...

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. View All Audis For Sale Image Source: Audi

Interview with Marc Lichte, Head of Design AUDI AG

By Tyler Rampersaud – October 16, 2023

Audi's Head Of Design Talks The Future Of High Performance

Performance, aesthetics, and functionality continue to shape Audi's performance cars. Audi Sport GmbH, with its RS models, has been a symbol of technological advancement and stylish design for four decades. In an exclusive interview with Marc Lichte, Head of Audi Design, we delve into the history and future of Audi's high-performance lineup. Lichte's passion for RS models is evident as he reminisces about the iconic TT RS2, a car that blended Bauhaus design principles with a thrilling driving experience. He also highlights the uncompromising approach taken with the Audi RS 6 Avant, showcasing the brand's commitment to its quattro heritage. What sets RS models apart is their timeless design, characterized by muscular lines, wide fender flares, and distinctive features. Lichte emphasizes that this DNA is deeply ingrained in Audi, ensuring that future RS models will continue to embody this essence, a poignant revelation at a time when Audi's brand is rapidly evolving to embrace electrification. The genesis of Lichte's love for performance cars can be traced back to his father's hill-climb racing days, where the anticipation and excitement surrounding races left a lasting impression. It was the Audi Sport quattro at the Frankfurt International Motor Show in 1983 that ignited his desire to become an automobile designer at Audi, and that passion still drives him today. The interview sheds light on how design traditions at Audi have evolved over time. Lichte juxtaposes the Sport quattro with the RS e-tron GT, showcasing how elements from the past seamlessly transition into the electric age, preserving tradition while embracing innovation. Looking toward the future, Lichte discusses Audi Sport GmbH's plans for RS models, focusing on performance, functionality, and distinctive design. He emphasizes the importance of a wide track and large wheels, key features that differentiate RS models from their base counterparts. In the quest for timeless design, Lichte believes in creating forms with a defined function, striking a balance between modernity and classic beauty. Every RS model should fit seamlessly into any setting or situation, embodying longevity and universality. The interview concludes with insights into the impact of aerodynamics on electrified RS models, highlighting the meticulous design process aimed at maximizing efficiency and range, while combining a performance-oriented edge. Lichte also reveals Audi's new design philosophy, emphasizing the interior as the focal point of the design process, promising a radically different RS interior in future models. In the exciting future of RS models, performance, aesthetics, and functionality will continue to define the brand's DNA. View All Audis For Sale Image Source: Audi

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