Team Audi Sport has successfully completed the final test for the Audi RS Q e-tron in the south of France, marking the last major assessment before the 2024 Dakar Rally. The three Audi driver crews, consisting of Mattias Ekström/Emil Bergkvist, Stéphane Peterhansel/Edouard Boulanger, and Carlos Sainz/Lucas Cruz, conducted the last fine-tuning to enhance the endurance of all components. During the five-day test at Château de Lastours, the crews covered a total distance exceeding 900 kilometers.
Rolf Michl, Head of Audi Motorsport, expressed satisfaction with the development tasks completed, emphasizing the team’s concentration on logistical preparations for January. Michl acknowledged the challenging nature of the Dakar Rally and extended gratitude to the entire team, drivers, and co-drivers for their dedicated work.
Led by Technical Director Dr. Leonardo Pascali, the engineers focused on confirming quality standards for the innovative Audi RS Q e-tron, known for its electric drivetrain with a high-voltage battery and energy converter. The endurance tests at the French Mediterranean coast verified the efficiency and low-emission concept of the vehicle. Pascali highlighted the ideal logistical advantages of the test location and emphasized meeting specified quality standards for all components.
Sven Quandt, Team Principal of Q Motorsport, praised the collaborative efforts of drivers and engineers, ensuring the cars were thoroughly tested for the Dakar Rally. The drivers, Carlos, Mattias, and Stéphane, expressed satisfaction with the RS Q e-tron’s performance, instilling confidence as the team approaches the Dakar Rally with a sense of excitement and peace of mind. Quandt commended the team’s unity, purposeful approach, and consistency, further boosting confidence for the upcoming Dakar Rally.
Courtesy : https://www.audi-mediacenter.com