Ken Block’s popular Gymkhana series finally made its way to Sin City. In the 10th Gymkhana installment, Ken ventures to Las Vegas, surprising everyone with an all-electric show under the ever-glowing strip lights.
Block’s S1 Quattro Hoonitron, manufactured in Neckarsulm alongside the Audi R8 and RS models by Audi themselves, and recently revealed in exposed carbon, appears equally menacing under the lights. Its endeavor to obliterate all its tires is far from quiet – reportedly over 100 tires were sacrificed during filming – yet the familiar pops and cracks from previous Gymkhana installments are noticeably absent. The Hoonitron is propelled by Audi’s own Formula E motors on both axles, with battery packs borrowed from a Q7.
Electrikhana guides us through some of Las Vegas’ most distinctive sites: the Paris Hotel, Fremont Street, Excalibur, and MGM, with a quick detour into the casino – naturally.
While we understand these are technically “stunt driving videos,” the entertainment value surpasses all else. However, the transition to an all-electric Gymkhana series going forward reflects a broader trend among car enthusiasts. The iconic pops and crackles that have been synonymous with Gymkhana for over 15 years are gradually being replaced by the allure of EV speed demons, and it’s inspiring to witness Block leading this movement.
Given Block’s passion for Pikes Peak and the S1’s tribute to the legendary 1980s Audi racer that conquered the Colorado mountain, one can anticipate another installment tackling the race above the clouds. For now, we marvel at Block’s extraordinary stunts on the streets of Vegas, steering an all-electric monster.
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