Audi 2012 Annual Report Download - page 119

Fuel consumption and emission figures at the end of the Annual Report
counts here too are the correct swing,
an ideal line and getting the material
to glide – that’s why Hilde can grasp
this right away,” is Haider’s estimation.
Moments after the start, the two
SQ5 TDI SUVs are already making their
way around the gates in spectacular
fashion. Sepp Haider recommended
that the drivers switch the stability
control system to the oroad mode, so
that they could make use of slip in the
turns. The SQ5 TDI cars dance down the
slope as though this were their natural
habitat. Dozens of curious onlookers
have gathered along the slope, and
they can hardly believe what they are
seeing – how powerfully and elegantly
the two vehicles move over the snow.
Rahel Frey wins this run with a full gate
lead. “Driving a car with over 300 hp
in the snow is an incredible feeling.
The handling of the SQ5 TDI is super,”
exclaims Frey at the finish. “But the
warmer it gets, the more you need a
feel for it. I’m sure you’re familiar with
that from ski racing too, Hilde.” Gerg is
Dance on the slope: Experience
the race between the two sport
stars in spectacular pictures.
considered an excellent driver – and it
is apparent in her expression that she
expected a better result. She says: “On
skis I can control my speed directly by
my technique and body positioning.
In the car, there’s an accelerator pedal
in between – that in itself is a big dif-
ference.”
It is early afternoon, but the surround -
ing mountains are already casting long
shadows over the slope. Frey and Gerg
high-five each other at the finish and
embrace. “And who won?” asks the Audi
factory driver with an impish grin. “A tie!”
answers the ski racer, still impressed
by the experience of her slalom on four
wheels. “Although that is unheard of
in both of our sports.” An exceptional
result for an exceptional race. «
Happy faces: Hilde Gerg and Rahel Frey at the end of an exciting day of racing.
Audi alpine: the SQ5 TDI
in its element.
P H O T O S | S T E FA N S C H U E T Z .C O M (2); J I M R A K E T E
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