Sophia Flörsch will take part in the 2021 DTM. Together with automotive and industrial supplier Schaeffler, ABT Sportsline is fielding a third Audi R8 LMS for the 20-year-old German, who will be taking part this year alongside team-mates Mike Rockenfeller and Kelvin van der Linde. Sophia Flörsch will make her first appearance with the team during the DTM tests at Hockenheim at the beginning of April. The season opener is scheduled at Monza in mid-June.
“I’m really looking forward to competing in the DTM,” says Sophia Flörsch. “The partnership with Schaeffler and ABT Sportsline is great and makes me confident for my first season. I’m very proud to be given the chance to prove myself against such a strong field of drivers.” In recent years, Flörsch gained experience, points and trophies in various single-seater series and also completed a few laps in Schaeffler’s “DTM Electric Demo Car” at the 2020 DTM finale.
For ABT Sportsline, Sophia Flörsch is already the third woman with whom the team has competed in the DTM: In 2009, Katherine Legge drove for the team and in 2012, ABT fielded an Audi A5 DTM for Rahel Frey. A premiere: For the first time, ABT is also providing its driver with a female race engineer in the form of Laura Müller and a female team manager with Maike Frik. “We are very much looking forward to this joint adventure also in the DTM, working with Sophia and the cooperation with Schaeffler,” says Managing Partner Hans-Jürgen Abt. “We now have a DTM veteran, a rookie and a lady in the team, that’s really something motorsport fans can already look forward to.”
The entry of the third race car is made possible by the commitment of ABT partner Schaeffler. The two brands have already formed a successful team in the Formula E electric racing series since the championship’s inception in 2014 and now they are also working together in the DTM. “We are looking forward to the partnership,” says Matthias Zink, Member of the Executive Board for Automotive Technologies at Schaeffler. “For us as a pioneer in mobility, the DTM is passion in action and a perfect testing ground. We share Sophia’s enthusiasm for technology and see her as an important role model for all girls and women who pursue their goals with talent, commitment and ambition. Together, we will shape progress that moves the world on the race track and beyond.”
In early April, 1896, the local Bavarian newspaper contained a small article, barely a few centimetres high. It read as follows: “Johann Baptist Abt takes over blacksmiths and coachworks in Burgstraße, Kempten.” The blacksmith of yore has since developed in ABT Sportsline, the world’s largest automotive aftermarket and performance parts specialist for Audi and VW, one of the most successful international motorsport teams and an innovative electromobility pioneer. The family business is now celebrating its 125th birthday.
“Much has changed since the early days – the world, its people, the car, our perspective on things”, says Hans-Jürgen Abt. “One thing, however, has remained constant: Our passion for exciting new technologies, adventure and occasional unconventional methods.” The managing partner is the fourth generation, who is in charge of running the company with now 200 employees that has always been based in the heart of the Allgäu region. “An anniversary like always provides the perfect opportunity to say a heartfelt thank you. To my family, our employees all over the world, all of our partners in day-to-day business and motorsport, the fans on the race tracks and of course to our customers, who challenge and inspire us.”
The developments are always in tune with the times
Sporty cars were not yet on the agenda in 1896, but the “innovative blacksmith” was not short of creative ideas 125 years ago. Johann Baptist Abt developed a skid construction with which horse-drawn vehicles could be optimally converted to “winter operation”. Since then, exciting mobility themes have been a recurrent theme in the history of ABT and paved the way for the vehicle tuning division with its roots in motorsport that was founded in 1967. Here too, the family business is always at the cutting edge: Back in 1980, ABT marketed the first electronic performance upgrade. Bodywork components, rims, suspension and intricate customisation followed. Since 1991, the company has operated under the name ABT Sportsline and has its headquarters in the street named after Hans-Jürgen Abt’s father, Johann-Abt-Straße in Kempten-Leubas.
“The challenges facing our engineers and designers have changed over the years. Striking body conversions, gaudy colours – that was a long time ago. Then came elegant understatement, confident performance and high-quality customisation”, Hans-Jürgen Abt describes the transformation over the decades. The response from Kempten: increasingly daring and innovative technical and aesthetic concepts. These qualities also impress vehicle manufacturers: When the brands of the Volkswagen Group want to offer their customers something really special, they like to turn to the expertise and world-renowned reputation of ABT Sportsline. This applies to the numerous long-term cooperations with Audi as well as to the common activities with Skoda or the close partnership with the relatively young brand CUPRA.
In 2021, ABT Sportsline not only has a presence all over Germany, but in conjunction with its partners in over 60 countries worldwide.
Pioneer in Electromobility
The exciting electromobility sector has been a part of ABT Sportsline’s day-to-day business for over a decade – with involvement in Formula E on the racetrack as well with road vehicles. “We have always considered change as opportunity rather than risk”, says Hans-Jürgen Abt. The initial pilot projects led to the creation of ABT e-Line GmbH, which today operates as a premium partner of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, among others. The first major project in this configuration was the ABT e-Caddy. Next came the ABT e-Transporter, which is produced officially on the basis of the VW T6.1. Now the focus is on the future again: In conjunction with the university in Kempten, the ABT specialists are investigating fuel cells.
Internationally Successful Race Drivers
The company’s passion for motor racing began in 1950, when the then 14-year-old Johann Abt won a place on the podium on the grass track in Kempten in a DKW “Meisterklasse” with the starting number 7. The company founder’s grandson became a long-term winner with around 300 successes and in doing so, laid the foundation of one of the most successful international motorsport teams: ABT Sportsline. The highlights include the 1999 STW title with Christian Abt, the 2002 DTM title with Laurent Aiello and the victory in the 2017 Formula E electric racing series with Lucas di Grassi. In all three championships, ABT together with private partners prevailed as a private team against the competition of major manufacturers. As the works team of the brand with four rings, ABT Sportsline produced unparalleled results: Since the mid-1990s, the Bavarians together with Audi have won eight driver titles and seven team titles. At the time of the 125th anniversary of the company, two new motorsport projects are starting: In 2021, the ABT CUPRA XE Team competed in the brand-new offroad electric series Extreme E. Under their own direction, ABT also sends several Audi R8 LMS to race for victory and title in the 2021 DTM season.
Happy Birthday
The traditional “birthday” of ABT is April 1st, 1896: According to the Allgäuer Zeitung, Johann Baptist Abt took over the blacksmiths in Kempten on this day. 2021 is greatly influenced by the anniversary. For example, on the road: The new ABT RSQ8-R features a striking aero package and is strictly limited to 125 vehicles. A secret project based on a series that has continued to be a top performer at ABT Sportsline for many years. Along with ultimate performance, fans can look forward to a vehicular time capsule. Or on the race track: In the Extreme E Series, ABT will race with the starting number 125 in homage to the anniversary. And of course, ABT Sportsline’s birthday will be celebrated on all multimedia channels. Start it up with the birthday video: https://www.abt-sportsline.com/company/history/125-years-of-abt/
ABT Sportsline is starting the new season of the DTM, which begins at Monza, Italy, in June, with a veteran and a rookie: Mike Rockenfeller, 2013 champion, will be racing together with South African DTM newcomer Kelvin van der Linde. As early as next week, the two drivers will be sitting in the cockpits of the two Audi R8 LMS cars fielded by the Kempten-based team during testing at Vallelunga.
“The combination of an experienced and successful DTM driver and a proven expert in the Audi R8 LMS is ideal for our commitment in the DTM,” says managing partner Hans-Jürgen Abt. “We know both guys well and respect each other. The chemistry is simply right.”
Mike Rockenfeller (37) returns to ABT Sportsline with the experience of a whopping 191 DTM races. He already competed for the team in the 2011 season and also celebrated his first-ever DTM victory during their time together. Two years later, he clinched the title. “ABT is a permanent fixture in the DTM, something special. They have always shown that they can race for the title and have unique motivation,” says Rockenfeller. “I think it’s really cool that we’re now competing together again. I’m excited about the new DTM season and think it’s going to be really good.”
Kelvin van der Linde is starting his first DTM season. The 24-year-old South African has been part of the Audi family for years and is also involved in the Formula E project. With the Audi R8 LMS, he has twice won the ADAC GT Masters, as well as various endurance races, including the 24-hour classic at the Nürburgring. “For me, competing in the DTM is a dream come true and I’m very grateful to be given this opportunity,” says van der Linde, who now lives just a five-minute drive from ABT Sportsline in Kempten. “I know the R8 LMS extremely well, so this exciting phase of the DTM is the perfect moment for me.”
Even though the DTM season is not scheduled to begin until June, preparations at ABT Sportsline are already in full swing. At a joint workshop in Kempten, Rockenfeller and van der Linde have already gotten to know their team of engineers and mechanics. On the agenda: defining all of the processes, determining the testing plans, swearing in to the common goals and, of course, a Bavarian snack with veal sausage. “Mike knows the DTM inside out after 14 years and Kelvin knows every little detail of the Audi R8 LMS, I believe that with this duo and our team, we will have a strong entry to compete with,” says Thomas Biermaier. For the CEO and Sport Director of ABT Sportsline, it is precisely this team spirit that plays a decisive role alongside the sporting qualities of his drivers. “You can already guess how high the level of competition will be in the DTM this year. We want to play a decisive role, win races and compete for the title. This is only possible with complete passion and teamwork, as we have been living at ABT for many years.”
A Puch G from 1995 with 170 HP (125 kW)? That can only be a W 463 with the 300 GE six-cylinder engine! But how did the civilian luxury version get into the Swiss Army? After all, it is well known that the armed forces prefer the rustic W 461 with its moderate power. Lorinser Classic from Germany can shed light on this mystery. “A while ago, we took on a larger batch of Puch Gs from the Swiss Army,” explains Marcus Lorinser. Since 2006, he has been the Managing Director of the company in Waiblingen, Germany, in the third generation. Some of these vehicles were sold on in their original state while others were turned into various restomods. “We always like to try something new,” explains Lorinser. After models with a new look and some even with special vehicle bodies, including a motorhome, it is now time for the first performance boost.
While the “Sportservice Lorinser” in-house tuning division is responsible for electronically boosting modern turbocharged engines, the elderly M 102 naturally aspirated engine required somewhat heavier tools. But this is where the benefit of having been a Mercedes dealership for several decades comes into play. Lorinser is also one of only 46 Mercedes-Classic Partners in Germany. This was an easy way to prove that Lorinser has not forgotten how to do a little traditional tuning. The capacity was increased from 2,297 to 2,900 ccm – practically top league for a four-cylinder engine. 54 horses were added to the original 116 HP (85 kW) of the engine, which now boasts an impressive 280 Nm. A 4-speed automatic transmission takes care of the gear changes. This allows for perfect cruising, while resting comfortably on the newly upholstered and recovered seats. The new wooden steering wheel completes the stylish interior.
Of course Lorinser Classic did not stop at the “inner values”, as a glance at the immaculate bodywork proves. It was painted in matt Arabian Gray, including the headlight bezels, and sports a completely new top made of black cloth. Any residue from former army maneuvers was blasted from the underbody with dry ice, followed by an application of sealant. After all, this prime example of an off-road vehicle has only 110,000 kilometers under its belt and the engine and many other parts are as good as new after the overhaul.
The former army vehicle also received a small, but stylish modernization makeover. In addition to LED main headlights with protective grilles, the mechanics installed a towbar which can handle an impressive 3.5 tons. Wheel spacers and fender flares in combination with 16-inch offroad steel wheels from DOTZ 4×4 give the vehicle a solid stance on the road. This is complemented by all-terrain tires from BFGoodrich. The many special features and the excellent condition of this low-mileage, one-of-a-kind car add up to a selling price of 64,500 euros. For those who already own a G and are interested in the comprehensive engine conversion: Including complete overhaul and a new catalytic converter unit, this should come to around 20,000 euros.
Details and order addresses at https://sportservice.lorinser.com/
Following the international success of its superb range of Suzuki 4×4 Weber carburettor replacements, Webcon is delighted to announce that it has now started production of the base adaptor assembly itself.
The adaptor (part number 9900430000) is suitable for the SJ413 1.3 and Vitara 1.6 8v models. It includes a UK designed and CNC manufactured base plate, along with gaskets, studs and bolts to allow fitment of not only the popular Weber 32/36 and 38/38 range of carburettors, but also the new Webcon Retroject throttle body.
9900430000 retails at £37.41 plus VAT.
Available directly from Webcon and from appointed Webcon dealers around the world. For further details contact Webcon UK on +44 (0)1932 787100 or visit www.webcon.co.uk
Webcon has re-released its inlet manifold to enable a Weber DGV, DGAS or a Webcon Retroject Throttle Body to be fitted to the popular VW Golf 1.6 and 1.8 engines.
This is the simple way to upgrade the 1.6/1.8 engines to Weber carburation or Webcon Retroject electronic fuel injection. The manifold can be ordered as part number MM0067 and retails at £278.25 plus VAT .
Available directly from Webcon and from appointed Webcon dealers around the world. For further details contact Webcon UK on +44 (0)1932 787100 or visit www.webcon.co.uk
LED lights are becoming more and more popular on classic cars thanks to their increased – get-you-noticed brilliance, low current consumption and longevity.
Mini Spares now has LED side repeater lamps for all 1986on Minis and they are equally suitable for upgrading any other classic or kit car. They can be connected into the indicator circuit without a resistor being required.
Order as part number PRC9916LED at £7.20 inc. VAT each.
For more details contact Mini Spares on +44 1707 607700 or visit their website: www.minispares.com
Out of sight doesn’t have to mean out of mind. You can have a constant reminder of your Mini right there on your work desk with this new mousemat from Mini Spares.
All the classic Minis are included including the Mini Van and the Moke.
Order as MOUSEMAT001 at just £2.50 inc VAT.
For more details contact Mini Spares on +44 1707 607700 or visit their website: www.minispares.com
Anyone tuning a Mini or other A Series engine would do well to consider forged con rods as part of the upgrade. Mini Spares has it’s own brand forged con rods as part of its EVO high preformance collection.
Minispares steel connecting rods are machined by Arrow Precision Engineering from double-air re-melted 817M40 forgings. They weigh just 445g per rod.
The new X rod design maintains stiffness whilst reducing weight where it is not required. Naturally, ARP 2000 5/16” bolts are included, as are Colsibro small end bushes.
An automated shot peening process increases the rod’s fatigue strength and durability. The connecting rods are balanced end-over-end, sorted into matched sets and laser marked for identification before being crack detected. CMM inspection is then carried out in a temperature controlled quality department. Final visual checks are conducted before the con rods are packed in specially designed protective boxes for shipment.
The rods shown are part number C-AEG624EVO (5.75” long, 1.625” journal, 20.66mm pin) with other sizes available (see website). Retail price per set £964.80 inc VAT
For more details contact Mini Spares on +44 1707 607700 or visit their website: www.minispares.com
M-Style is currently offering a ‘Stance’ Package for the BMW F40 M135i that will lower the ride height by 30mm and increase the track width for improved handling and a ‘performance’ appearance.
The springs come from the leading German manufacturers Eibach and the 12/15mm spacers are manufacturered by BIMECC.
The kit is available now at just £400 inc. VAT, but numbers are limited, so contact M-Style now to ensure you get yours.
For further details e-mail info@mstyle.co.uk or call 0208 598 9115
