Audi is developing its electric RS Q e-tron prototype, which it plans to use to compete in the 2022 Dakar Rally. Following tests in Germany and Spain, the Audi Sport crew relocated to Morocco, where the prototype saw the desert and sand dunes for the first time. In this scenario, all three official teams took part and will confront the most challenging rally raid in the globe.
According to the automaker, they encountered severe climatic conditions in Morocco, with temperatures reaching well over 40 degrees. Furthermore, the crew had to cope with sandstorms that impeded testing as well as minor issues caused by the searing heat.
Despite the challenging conditions, the battery performed flawlessly. Furthermore, the high temperatures were ideal for testing the accumulator's thermal management. Parallel to the testing, Audi Sport has begun assembling the first Audi RS Q e-tron, chassis 104, at the Audi Motorsport Competence Center in Neuburg a der Donau.
"We anticipated cooler temperatures at the Dakar, but we still intended to push the vehicle to its limits. Components such as MGUs are not meant for continuous usage at temperatures exceeding 40 ° C, and the same is true for the drivetrain and powertrains. Nevertheless, we have stepped outside of our comfort zone, and the knowledge gained will be critical in the future."
Please remember that the Audi RS Q e-tron is outfitted with three electric powertrains derived from the Audi e-tron FE07 Formula E single-seater: two MGUs (Motor Generator Units), one at each axle, handling traction, while a third unit acts as a generator to help recharge the high voltage battery, especially when braking.
The Audi RS Q e-tron prototype also has a range extender, which enables you to charge the battery while driving. It's a four-cylinder TFSI - turbo with direct petrol injection - from the German Touring Car Championship. All of the data gathered during these testing will be utilized to fine-tune the models that will be used in the Dakar Rally. @via Audi.
