Ken Block and Audi on Thursday unveiled a one-off electrical automobile for Block’s upcoming “Elektrikhana” video.
Dubbed the Audi S1 E-Tron Quattro Hoonitron, the automobile is impressed by the Audi Sport Quattro S1 of Pikes Peak hill climb fame, incorporating that race automobile’s large rear wing and bench-like entrance wing.
As a substitute of the unique S1’s turbocharged inline-5, the Hoonitron is powered by two electrical motors. One motor powers every axle, enabling all-wheel drive. The Hoonitron additionally encompasses a bespoke carbon-fiber chassis, in line with an Audi press launch.
Audi stated “Elektrikhana” shall be launched someday within the subsequent few months. Within the meantime Block has been testing out automobiles from Audi’s historic assortment, together with the once-secret Group S prototype, and studying to hoon an EV.
Ken Block’s Audi S1 E-Tron Quattro Hoonitron
“Spinning right into a donut at 93 mph instantly from a standstill—simply utilizing my proper foot—is an all-new expertise for me,” Block stated in an announcement.
This is not Block’s first time driving an electrical automobile, nonetheless. He gained the inaugural race of the Projekt E electrical rallycross sequence in 2020, and drove an EV within the Dakar Rally that very same yr, putting third within the remaining stage. However this would be the first time he is used an EV for the stunts and sideways motion the Gymkhana sequence is understood for.
Block partnered with Audi earlier this yr after ending his unique partnership with Ford, which has allowed him to work with different automakers. Along with partnering with Audi on EV initiatives, Block has additionally returned to rallying with Subaru.
After ending its participation in Formulation E, Audi has been searching for different methods to make use of motorsports to advertise its EVs. That features a deliberate assault on the Dakar rally with its RS Q E-Tron off-road racer.