Ken Block has returned for the concluding episode of his renowned Gymkhana series. Initially launched as a mere video featuring Block in a Subaru Impreza WRX STI honing his rally racing skills, which was eventually shared online, the series has now reached its final chapter.
The most recent episode, titled “Electrikhana 2: The Mexico City Sessions,” features the late rally icon and DC Shoes co-founder driving the all-electric Audi S1 E-Tron Quattro Hoonitron. This segment was filmed in November 2022 in Mexico City, a mere two months before Block tragically passed away in a snowmobile incident.
“Electrikhana 2” represents the second of the Electrikhana series within the broader Gymkhana collection, which has expanded to include variants like Climbkhana and Terrakhana. The inaugural Electrikhana installment was launched in 2022, showcasing Block navigating through Las Vegas in the same electric Audi race car.
For its second appearance, the vehicle underwent significant enhancements. Its dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system generates 680 horsepower. Although this figure is lower than the horsepower of some of Block’s previous gasoline-powered Gymkhana vehicles, the electric powertrain’s delivery method makes it equally challenging to manage.
During the filming of the original Electrikhana, Block realized the S1 E-Tron Quattro Hoonitron’s rapid acceleration capabilities, jumping from 15 mph to over 120 mph almost instantly with just a minimal throttle input.
To address this, Block had Audi’s engineers implement a simulated gearing system, controllable by paddle shifters, akin to the technology introduced in Hyundai’s 2024 Ioniq 5 N. This system, operating through software control of the electric motors, enhances the precision of slides and donuts.
Moreover, Block requested the addition of a system enabling direct control over the motors. This setup permits maneuvers like opposing-wheel-driven stationary all-wheel burnouts, swift transitions between all-wheel and rear-wheel-drive, and even the capability to switch into reverse at any speed.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Electrikhana 2
What is “Electrikhana 2: The Mexico City Sessions”?
“Electrikhana 2: The Mexico City Sessions” is the latest installment in Ken Block’s Gymkhana series, featuring the late rally driver in a fully electric Audi S1 E-Tron Quattro Hoonitron. Filmed in Mexico City in November 2022, it showcases Block’s high-speed maneuvers and the vehicle’s upgraded capabilities.
Who was Ken Block and what was he known for?
Ken Block was a renowned rally driver and the co-founder of DC Shoes. He gained fame for his Gymkhana series, where he performed extraordinary driving stunts. Block was known for his skillful driving and for pushing the limits in rally racing and related videos.
How does “Electrikhana 2” differ from previous Gymkhana videos?
“Electrikhana 2” differs from previous Gymkhana videos by featuring a fully electric vehicle, the Audi S1 E-Tron Quattro Hoonitron. Unlike Block’s previous gas-powered rides, this installment highlights electric power’s potential in high-performance racing and stunt driving.
What upgrades were made to the Audi S1 E-Tron Quattro Hoonitron for “Electrikhana 2”?
For “Electrikhana 2,” the Audi S1 E-Tron Quattro Hoonitron was enhanced with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain producing 680 hp. It also included a simulated gear system controlled by paddle shifters and a system for direct motor control, allowing for more precise driving maneuvers.