Audi has begun preparations for the Dakar 2024. The extended range electric prototype of the Audi RS Q e-tron E2 raced in 2023 has been extensively tested in Saudi Arabia. In the last Dakar, this car won 14 podiums in 15 days of competition, demonstrating reliability and efficiency.
Unfortunately, multiple punctures jeopardized the classification of the crews of Matthias Ekström/Emil Bergqvist, Stefan Peterhansel/Eduard Boulanger and Carlos Sainz/Lucas Cruz. It is for this reason that the Audi Sport Team returned to Arabia in May this year to recreate the conditions of the world’s most difficult rally, to improve the car’s setup on fast, rock-strewn tracks, and take first place. Tires BF Goodrich.
In particular, two tire options were used during these tests. The Audi Sport Team measured and compared the results, recreating the conditions of the recent Dakar, thanks to a “sprint” track characterized by gravel and sand where the suspension could be tested and more than 110 km of rocky ground where the suspension could be tested. endurance and tire resistance. At the same time, the calibration of shock absorbers was clarified.
In Saudi Arabia, an electric prototype faced extreme temperatures. up to 42 degrees and very strong wind. General, 2568 km of tests passed without problems, confirming the technical maturity of Audi’s electric prototype. In parallel, engineers and crews have improved the decision-making processes that will be taken in the race. After the vehicles are returned, an in-depth analysis of the collected data is planned to be better prepared for Dakar 2024. Sven Quandtthe owner of the Q Motorsport team, which runs prototypes in racing, commented:
The organization of the tests proved to be very demanding. We have recreated the conditions our crews suffered during the Dakar 2023, especially the places where we got the most punctures. Basically we were engaged in suspension calibration. We have not yet reached the ideal setting, but the steps forward are satisfying.
Source: HD Motori
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