To many non-Audi fans, the Ingolstadt-based automaker strikes people as a company that doesn't like to stand out with bold claims – instead, it's a premium carmaker that lets its models do the talking.
They do have their 'superheroes' like the Audi R8 in the ICE-powered world or the 2024 Audi RS e-tron GT in the fresh EV-centric circles. It is part of the zero-emissions e-tron sub-brand alongside the likes of Q8 e-tron, Q2L e-tron, Q4 e-tron, and Q5 e-tron models. But it's also one of the top offerings, as it shares the J1 platform with the Porsche Taycan in its bid to give a proper legacy OEM response to the likes of Tesla's Model S.
Unfortunately for Audi, the American company has already reached a point where its economies of scale have allowed things like selling the Tesla Model S Plaid with 1,020 horsepower and an $89,990 MSRP. In contrast, the flagship 2024 RS e-tron GT costs no less than $147,100 and can only summon up to 637 hp with the boost mode activated! Now, if you want to stand out some more in any crowd – or at least the big-spender one, you can also travel to the UK and snatch one of just a few Audi RS e-tron GT Ice Race Edition EVs for an eye-watering £150,630 (OTR – on the road).
That is the equivalent of $189,319 at the current exchange rates, by the way! At least there's exclusivity involved, as there will be just four right-hand drive examples offered by Audi Sport. The annual GP Ice Race in Zell am See in the Austrian Alps provided the inspiration for the limited edition, of which a total of 99 units is scheduled for production. Finished in silver, white, and violet, this indeed is a striking EV grand tourer, of course.
Spearheaded by Audi Design, the project starts with the fully-electric RS e-tron GT finished in Florett Silver metallic with a black CFRP roof – but then the team adds a partially transparent wrap filled with white tones and violet details, and there are also 21-inch black alloy wheels and dark privacy glass to provide a fitting contrast. Inside, the color scheme continues with the Audi exclusive leather package combining diamond silver and black with violet contrast stitching. Plus, there's also additional Fine Nappa leather coverage beyond the standard fittings.
The powertrain is unchanged, though, so there are 590 hp or a temporary boost to 637 hp, allowing a sprint time to 62 mph (100 kph) in 3.6 or 3.3 seconds, respectively. As always, the restricted top speed is 155 mph (250 kph). Clients will also have a vibrant mix of standard perks: Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light, Bang & Olufsen 3D audio, City Assist, Tour and Parking Assistance packs, adaptive air suspension, all-wheel-steering, and e-quattro all-wheel-drive among others.
Aurel has aimed high all his life (literally, at 16 he was flying gliders all by himself) so in 2006 he switched careers and got hired as a writer at his favorite magazine. Since then, his work has been published both by print and online outlets, most recently right here, on autoevolution. Full profile
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