Audi Sport’s e-tron On Track Event featuring Ekström, Peterhansel, and Sainz

In a noteworthy gathering at Audi Sport’s “e-tron on track” event in Neuburg, Germany, legendary race drivers Mattias Ekström, Stéphane Peterhansel, and Carlos Sainz converged with Tom Kristensen. This event marked the first-ever encounter of five high-performance Audi models dedicated to racing and action, symbolizing the brand’s commitment to electrified drives since its pioneering efforts in 2012.

These iconic models, including the Audi R18 e-tron quattro from Le Mans, the Formula E race car e-tron FE07, the Dakar Rally prototype RS Q e-tron, and the show cars e-tron Vision Gran Turismo and S1 e-tron quattro Hoonitron, were brought together, showcasing Audi’s journey in electric drivetrains. Tom Kristensen, a nine-time Le Mans winner, joined the current three Audi Dakar drivers to witness and experience the advancements achieved.

The collective presence of these electric, high-speed models left a lasting impression on seasoned race drivers Ekström, Peterhansel, and Sainz, who, despite their extensive careers and numerous victories, expressed admiration for the progress in electric drives. Tom Kristensen, renowned as “Mister Le Mans,” shared insights into the development, reflecting on Audi’s victory with the R18 e-tron quattro hybrid sports car at Le Mans from 2012 to 2014.

At the “e-tron on track” event, Kristensen guided the participants through the revived LMP1 race car, emphasizing the complexity and driver-centric nature of the R18. Stéphane Peterhansel, the most successful Dakar participant, chose the R18 for its historical significance, while Carlos Sainz opted for the powerful Audi e-tron Vision Gran Turismo, praising its performance and aesthetics.

Mattias Ekström, a two-time DTM champion and former rallycross world champion, selected the Audi S1 e-tron quattro Hoonitron, appreciating the extreme power of the quattro drive. The lineup culminated with the Audi RS Q e-tron, the current race car for Ekström, Peterhansel, and Sainz, designed to endure the harshest conditions. This prototype, which secured victory in the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge in 2022, showcased Audi’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric performance.

In summary, the reunion of these electric prototypes at the “e-tron on track” event not only brought together racing legends for a day but also highlighted Audi’s continuous innovation in electric drivetrains, making dreams of high efficiency and maximum driving pleasure a reality in everyday life.