2024 Audi RS Q e-tron
Ahead of its third Dakar Rally appearance, Audi is boosting the rally prototype, featuring a pioneering electric drivetrain and high-voltage battery and innovations across multiple areas. Audi's driver crews, including Mattias Ekström/Emil Bergkvist, Stéphane Peterhansel/Edouard Boulanger, and Carlos Sainz/Lucas Cruz, will experience numerous enhancements in January 2024. These updates enhance safety and reliability, improve comfort, and reduce maintenance times for the team.
In January 2024, Audi returns to the Dakar Rally, showcasing its low-emission vehicle for the third time. Rolf Michl, Head of Audi Motorsport, highlights the RS Q e-tron's capabilities, boasting six stage victories and 22 podium results since 2022. With a focus on maintaining top performance, Audi Sport meticulously analyses previous outings, identifies areas for improvement, and sets clear development priorities. Dr. Leonardo Pascali, the project's Technical Director, has spearheaded development efforts across five critical areas since early summer.
Audi prioritises safety improvements following incidents involving Stéphane Peterhansel and Carlos Sainz at the 2023 Dakar Rally. Dr. Leonardo Pascali explains efforts to reduce peak vertical acceleration during landings, focusing on chassis adjustments and seat foam enhancements. Additionally, extending the CFRP crash box at the front end of the chassis structure enhances occupant protection during frontal impacts.
The Audi RS Q e-tron has demonstrated remarkable reliability, with all three cars finishing their first Dakar Rally in 2022. Technical issues were not a factor in the two cars' failure to finish in 2023, which was due to accidents. Audi Sport addresses issues such as stone penetration between the rim bed, brake disc, and uprights to further enhance reliability by introducing new fastening elements and robust rims.
To support drivers and co-drivers, Audi improves acoustic shielding and cockpit sealing. A redesigned front bonnet reduces mud and water swirls, keeping the windshield cleaner and enhancing concentration during the race.
Engineers explore various aspects, including chassis, software, body, and electric drivetrain, to boost competitiveness within regulations. Adjustments to shock absorbers, springs, and component optimisations contribute to performance gains. Regulation changes also increase the power-to-weight ratio of Audi's T1U model, ensuring a competitive edge.
Audi Sport's development team introduces practical solutions to simplify daily maintenance during rally events. Modifications to bolted connections, tool holders, filling cap devices, and body part locking mechanisms facilitate faster and more efficient servicing.
Rolf Michl emphasises the collaborative effort and innovative solutions driving the RS Q e-tron's enhancements, ensuring readiness for the Dakar Rally 2024. Audi has progressively incorporated these changes since mid-year, rigorously testing to ensure readiness for the upcoming event.
