Abt: “Almost like in a science fiction movie”

Exciting times for Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler driver Daniel Abt: The young German took his time between travelling from Rome to Paris to test the new Audi e-tron FE05, the team’s car for Formula E’s fifth season.

On the Circuit de Calafat in Spain, Abt followed the example of his teammate and reigning Formula E champion Lucas di Grassi – who already tested the Audi e-tron FE05 at the end of March – and took his future racing companion for a first drive. And even though the car’s characteristics differ immensely from what the German is used to in Formula E at the moment, he was ecstatic about his first hands-on experiences.

“I was really excited about my first test and arrived in Spain with great expectations – and they were even surpassed. Driving is huge fun and the car marks a major step forward in every respect,” says Abt who just barely missed out on the podium in last week’s Rome E-Prix. “On the race track, the Audi e-tron FE05 looks even more spectacular than it does on pictures. When you’re driving between other cars you almost feel like you’re in a science fiction movie.”

The Mexico E-Prix winner is not the only happy man in the Audi garage at the moment: Team Principal Allan McNish is delighted about the positive feedback from his two drivers: “It’s a good sign that Daniel and Lucas instantly feel comfortable in the new car and handle it well. A lot of work has been invested in the whole development project, not only in the tests on the track but also at home in Neuburg. Even though we still have a lot of work to do we know that we’re heading in the right direction.”

With the next tests of the Audi e-tron FE05 being scheduled for May, Abt and di Grassi have to focus on the challenges that lie directly ahead, in other words the Paris E-Prix on April 28. With Abt in P5 in the standings and di Grassi down in P8 with only 39 points following his unfortunate start into the season, both of the Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler drivers are hoping to redeem themselves and their team with another strong performance in City of Lights.

Image credit: Audi Motorsport