Audi Taps Ken Block to Aid With EV Development
It’s not clear exactly what the partnership between Ken Block and Audi means just yet. Except videos. Lots of cool videos.
Unless you’re a smart device — think light bulb or refrigerator — and you’ve been on the internet at all in the last decade, Ken Block needs no introduction. After all, this is the man who turned precision-grade hooning into global stardom. And now, he’ll be working with Audi on the development of electric vehicles. According to a statement from Block, the partnership will “develop innovative projects and push the boundaries of electric mobility.” So yup, not a lot of detail there just yet.
But you don’t need a crystal ball to predict that Block will be put to work on the motorsport side, to exploit the expertise he gained during his tenures in Global RallyCross, Rally America, and the World Rally Championship. So bet that he’s already talking with Audi’s Dakar team on the RS Q E-Tron racer, the electric beast that hopes to conquer the world’s hardest rally event. Since Block has already podiumed on the Dakar Rally — in an EV, no less — his input will likely prove invaluable.
One thing we can be certain of? There will be videos. Lots of ridiculously entertaining videos showcasing the cool new electric tech Audi is working on. So even if you’re not a fan of electric cars or rally machines, there will certainly be something about this partnership that floats your boat. Personally, I’m looking forward to seeing Block do some proper work behind the wheel of the new e-tron GT. Though I do have to wonder if the complicated electric drive system will allow for the car control magnificence we’ve come to expect from the Gymkhana legend.
In talking about what drew him to partner will Audi, Block said classic Audi rally videos were what drew him to motorsport to begin with. But since he’s partnered with Subaru for his petrol-powered racing efforts, don’t expect any videos of him ripping around in a classic quattro S1. That said, we’re sure to hear — and see — more about this exciting partnership soon, so stay tuned. Because whatever’s next here? It’s certain to be epic as all hell. For now, watch the teaser below.
Photos: YouTube