Audi Launches Hybrid Attack at Dakar

A few days before the Dakar departure, Stéphane Peterhansel invites you aboard the Audi RS Q e-tron.

Before his third participation in the Dakar Rally, the Audi prototype equipped with its pioneering electric powertrain, high-voltage battery, and energy converter is unveiled through its star driver Stéphane “Monsieur Dakar” Peterhansel. The Frenchman holds the overall record for wins at the Dakar Rally with 14 victories, 6 in the motorcycle category with Yamaha (1991, 1992, 1993, 1995, 1997, and 1998) and 8 in cars, with Mitsubishi (2004, 2005, 2007), Mini (2012, 2013, 2021), Peugeot (2016, 2017).

In January 2024, Audi will attack the most challenging desert rally in the world for the third time with its low-emission vehicle. “What the Audi RS Q e-tron is fundamentally capable of has been demonstrated by our drivers and co-drivers through six stage wins and 22 other podium finishes in a single day at the Dakar Rally since 2022,” stated Rolf Michl, Audi Motorsport director. “Now, it’s about demonstrating our performance as consistently as possible so that we can compete for the top spots.” Audi Sport has analyzed previous outings, identified weaknesses, and set clear priorities for further development. Since the beginning of summer, Dr. Leonardo Pascali, the new technical director of the project, has focused on five key areas with his development team.

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