Audi has revealed images of what they’re calling the RS e-tron GT ice race concept. Said to be “influenced by the legendary GP Ice Race and inspired by the quattro”, this design study appears to be primarily a cosmetic upgrade for a production RS e-tron GT.
We’re now decidedly past the era of big international auto shows where concepts such as this would typically make their mark. In more recent years, Audi has taken to showing off concept cars at lifestyle events such as Monterey Car Week or the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Why this one, named for Austria’s GP Ice Race in which Audi is typically a participant, is dropping at the beginning of summer versus at the GP Ice Race isn’t clear. Notably, the 2023 running of the GP Ice Race was canceled due to warm weather.
From all outward appearances, the substance of the changes to this RS e-tron GT are an intricate and cool vinyl livery. There’s also a tailored interior. Essentially, this was probably an extensive lift for Audi exclusive, Ingolstadt’s in-house tailoring department. And, if it reminds you of the recent RS e-tron GT “project_513/2” built for the U.S. market, you wouldn’t be alone. While visually very different, the substantive changes appear to be very similar.
Also a great touch, Audi Tradition appears to have lent one of its Sport quattros for similar livery in order to help drive the point home that designers were inspired by the Sport quattro in this concept’s creation.
Check out an in-depth feature story on the RS e-tron GT ice race concept over ClassicDriver.com.
