Team Audi Sport received a warm welcome in its home country after winning the Dakar Rally. At the Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm sites, the winners Carlos Sainz/Lucas Cruz and their teammates Emil Bergkvist and Stéphane Peterhansel/Edouard Boulanger appeared before the workforce. The Board of Management of AUDI AG also welcomed the successful motorsport drivers, who drove their electrically powered off-road prototypes around the two factory sites and signed numerous autographs.
More modern, bigger, more digital: The Audi Q2 models will receive a significant upgrade in mid-2024. The infotainment system for the compact SUV is receiving a comprehensive technology update. Effective immediately, every new Audi Q2 will come with the Audi virtual cockpit and an 8.8-inch touchscreen as the central control unit for the MMI. A convenient storage compartment replaces the previous rotary/push button. The base price for the Audi Q2* is 28,600 euros.
It is inspired by the world’s premier desert rally: the Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar. On the exterior, the special model’s raised chassis and the optional decals are reminiscent of the RS Q e-tron designed for the Dakar Rally and featuring an electric drive system and an energy converter. The off-road capabilities of this exclusive SUV, combined with its high and instantly available torque, are perfect for adventurous people who also want to drive off the beaten path electrically. The Q8 e-tron edition Dakar will be available to order from the end of February 2024. The base price in Germany starts at € 119,900.
Massimo Frascella is the new Head of Audi Design. On June 1, he is scheduled to succeed Marc Lichte, who will take a new role within the group. Frascella, alumnus of the Istituto d`Arte Applicata & Design in Turin, began his career at Stile Bertone. Positions at Ford Motor Company and Kia followed. Since 2011, Frascella (52) held leading roles at Jaguar Land Rover, most recently as Head of Design for both brands.
Audi made global headlines with its first Dakar victory. The analyses of Team Audi Sport, together with background stories from the bivouac, reveal many an insight worth reading.