In late January, Audi sent its first fully electric-powered SUV onto the Austrian slopes where the world's best ski racers battle for victory in the Hahnenkamm Race. With an 85% gradient, it is the steepest section of the spectacular downhill course.

To climb this passage, the Audi e‑tron technology demonstrator was equipped with a special quattro powertrain with two electric motors on the rear axle and one electric motor on the front axle. The technology demonstrator achieved a total boost output of up to 489bhp and wheel torque of 8,920Nm. This ensured full performance on the steep gradient.

Audi also modified the software with respect to drive torque and torque distribution for the special conditions on the 'Streif'. 19-inch wheels with spikes developed specifically for this driving event provided the necessary grip on snow and ice.