Eduard Huma
With the 2024 Dakar Rally fast-approaching, Audi is getting ready to present a more advanced edition of their thrilling RS Q e-tron rally prototype. The prototype with an impressive performance history has been improved on five main areas outlining Audi’s consistent strive for innovation and quality.
Prioritizing Safety – Taking a Leap Forward
Drawing from experiences, Audi has placed greater emphasis on safety. Reflecting on the accidents involving Stéphane Peterhansel and Carlos Sainz during the 2023 Dakar Rally, thorough evaluations have been conducted. The primary objective was to minimize peak acceleration during jumps.
Dr. Leonardo Pascali, the Technical Director of the project explains in detail how advancements in springs, dampers, and bump stops have been made to optimize control during jumps by distributing loads over time. Additionally, the introduction of foam in seats contributes to occupant safety by ensuring load distribution. Notably, the front-end CFRP crash box has been extended for energy absorption during impacts.
Enhancing Reliability – Attending to Every Detail
The RS Q e-tron from Audi has already demonstrated its reliability by completing the Dakar Rally in 2022 with all cars crossing the finish line intact.
The primary concern for Audi Sport is accidents. They have focused on enhancing reliability by addressing details and have introduced fastening elements for the uprights to prevent damage caused by stones between the rim bed, brake disc, and uprights, ensuring the expulsion of stones. Additionally, they have also improved the resilience of the rims.
In order to provide a focused environment for drivers and co-drivers, Audi has optimized acoustic shielding and cockpit sealing. They have also made modifications to the bonnet to deflect mud and water effectively resulting in a cleaner windshield. These improvements aim to enhance comfort during endurance drives.
Audi engineers have left no aspect untouched when it comes to improving the performance of the RS Q e-tron. From chassis to software, body to the drivetrain, everything has been thoroughly scrutinized for enhancement opportunities. They have made adjustments to shock absorbers and springs. Weight optimization efforts have targeted components such as the bonnet, brake calipers, and even the co-driver’s footrest. As a result of these improvements, Audi has achieved a shift in power-to-weight ratio with a maximum output increase to 286 kW, for the upcoming 2024 season.
Efficiency in Detail – Simplifying Maintenance Processes
Audi Sport understands the significance of maintenance during rally events and has introduced practical ideas to make daily tasks simpler. They have made modifications to bolted connections, improved tool holders, optimized filling cap devices, and prioritized bolted connections over glued ones. All these measures contribute to more servicing.
Looking Ahead to Dakar 2024 – Audi`s Unleashed Imagination
Head of Motorsport, Rolf Michl, is positive about the development of the RS Q e-Tron, saying that they have evolved it by using major solutions from their engineering team. The Audi team has tested every detail, making the preparations for next year’s Dakar Rally complete. Fans anxiously await the showing of Audi’s prototype for the 2024 Dakar Rall – a car that seeks to compete but also to set new levels of originality, reliability, and performance on Dakar’s demanding terrains.
Final Reflections – A Triumph of Engineering Brilliance
More than a rally car, the 2024 Audi RS Q e-tron is an Audi symbol of perfection. Developed with the complete consideration of safety, reliability, comfort, performance, and maintenance Audi`s engineers have hence presented a masterpiece. Due to the approaching Dakar Rally, the performance of the RS Q e-tron is awaited with great interest. It is not a matter of winning races, but transforming the world of electric rally cars. The RS Q e-tron is more than a vehicle, it represents an engineering achievement that will make its presence felt on the challenging terrains of Dakar in 2024.
2024 Audi RS Q e-Tron – Media Gallery
