Audi’s presence at the Formula 1 Heineken Dutch Grand Prix extends beyond the Audi Revolut F1 Team, with Audi Netherlands supplying six specially prepared vehicles to support race operations at Circuit Zandvoort.
Three new Audi RS 5 models are being deployed for Race Control duties, while three Audi Q5 e-hybrid models are serving as additional Medical Cars. All six receive special Dutch Grand Prix liveries and emergency lighting equipment appropriate to their respective roles.
RS 5 JOINS RACE CONTROL
The three RS 5s are being used by Race Control personnel including officials, the Head Track Official and Rescue Chief. Their role requires them to move quickly around the circuit when incidents or other operational situations require personnel on site.
Each RS 5 has been fitted with a roof-mounted light bar with orange warning lights controlled from inside the car. A dedicated Dutch Grand Prix livery distinguishes the cars as part of the circuit’s operational fleet.
The assignment also gives Audi Netherlands a highly visible role for the recently introduced RS 5. The latest generation combines a 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 with an electric drive system and quattro all-wheel drive, producing a combined 470 kW (639 hp).
“Formula 1 not only requires speed and precision on the track, but also an organization that can act directly when needed,” said Robert Jan van den Berg, Director of Audi Netherlands. “With these six cars we can extra support the organization of the Dutch Grand Prix and provide them with the right tools.”
Van den Berg also pointed to the RS 5 as a connection between Audi’s Formula 1 program and its production cars, with the automaker increasingly positioning its F1 effort as a development environment for technologies applicable to future road models.
Q5 E-HYBRID TAKES ON MEDICAL DUTIES
Three Q5 e-hybrid models have been prepared for medical support. Two are being used during the Formula 1 program alongside the official FIA Medical Car, while the third is assigned specifically to the Porsche Supercup.
The Supercup assignment includes following the field during the opening lap, allowing the medical team to respond rapidly should an incident occur.
Audi says the Q5 was selected in part for its combination of performance, passenger capacity and cargo space. Each carries four occupants, with enough rear-seat headroom for medical personnel wearing helmets. The luggage compartment accommodates medical bags and other emergency equipment.
Like the RS 5s, the three Q5 e-hybrids have been equipped with dedicated circuit liveries and warning-light systems.
The six-car fleet adds another dimension to Audi’s involvement at Zandvoort during the final Formula 1 Dutch Grand Prix at the circuit for the foreseeable future. While Hülkenberg and Bortoleto represent Audi on track, the RS 5 and Q5 e-hybrid fleet gives the brand a supporting role in the infrastructure required to run the race weekend.
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