• Audi e-tron drifting at Audi Ice Experience
/October 2, 2023/inAudi News

Audi Ice Experience 2023

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to drive full throttle on top of a snowy mountain? 

With the latest Audi models, stunning blue skies, and one of the world’s best winter testing facilities, the Audi Ice Experience is guaranteed to be the time of your life. It’s more than just driving on ice, it’s a luxury retreat and an unforgettable bucket list experience. 

My name is Jack, and I’m a vehicle support specialist and photographer for Archibalds. In this article I’ll take you through my experience at the 2023 Audi Ice Experience and why I believe it should be at the top of everyone’s bucket list.

  • Audi ice experience bridge in early light
  • Audi Ice Experience car lineup
  • Audi Ice Experience guests arriving
  • Audi Ice Experience quattro only sign
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What is the Audi Ice Experience?

At the 2023 Audi Ice Experience, a single-day event tailored for Audi enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, attendees had the chance to immerse themselves in the art of snow drifting with Audi’s latest vehicles. The package included a luxurious 5-star hotel stay, fine dining experiences, expert driver training by professional instructors, and an exclusive limited edition Huffer x Audi snow jacket for each participant.

Participants could choose between two packages: Standard or Pro. The Pro package elevated the experience by offering additional benefits such as a welcome dinner, an exciting Après-drive helicopter adventure, and, most notably, the privilege of having a dedicated vehicle for each participant, ensuring maximum time on the ice.

  • Audi Ice Experience instructor
  • Audi Ice Experience guests
  • Audi Ice Experience Guests
  • Audi Ice Experience instructor
  • Audi Ice Experience flags
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What to expect on the day?

Visitors to the proving grounds received a breathtaking and exciting experience. The day started bright and early at sunrise, offering an incredible trip up the mountain bathed in the golden morning light.

The day commenced with an early morning departure from Queenstown, as the coach wound its way toward the stunning Cardrona range. Bathed in the gorgeous golden hues of sunrise, the Cardrona range unfolded before our eyes, revealing itself as one of the most breathtakingly beautiful places imaginable.

Upon arrival, guests received a warm welcome and a briefing on the day’s activities. This overview ensured that everyone was familiar with the essential guidelines put in place for safety and privacy. Given the facility’s primary purpose for vehicle testing, these rules were vitally important to follow. Additionally, this meant guests had a chance to see new vehicles testing before they headed to market.

Throughout the day, guests looked forward to a large range of driving activities. The experience was divided into two sessions. The morning session aimed to develop the fundamentals of snow driving, getting participants used to the way the car felt and how it responded in different scenarios. During this, they had the chance to switch vehicles and get a feel for the entire range. Once the morning session was finished, they were treated to a 5-star lunch in the main building, as well as a chance to warm up and grab a barista coffee.

After lunch, with the fundamentals firmly in place, guests had the opportunity to showcase their newly acquired skills. They gained access to the more advanced courses, including the exclusive Mini Finland Blue Ice track reserved specifically for the Audi Ice Experience. Additionally, they had a chance to take on the slalom course, with their times being scored at the awards dinner at the end of the night.

  • Audi e-tron drifting
  • Audi ice Experience RS e-tron GT parked outside main building
  • Audi Ice Experience S4 doing figure 8
  • Audi Ice Experience cars
  • Audi Ice Experience Red S3
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Do you need to have prior experience to drive?

No, the Audi Ice Experience is coached by experienced professional drivers who will be by your side at all times. The event has been planned out specifically to teach you the fundamentals of driving on ice in stages, allowing you to build up the proper techniques to drive like a pro. Audi’s team of driving instructors are incredibly talented and will ensure you feel comfortable in the car at all times.

What cars do you get to drive?

Each year Audi brings with it the latest lineup of vehicles, allowing you to experience the best of what Audi has to offer. This year’s event showcased an impressive assortment of models, including five RS 4, a single RS 3, a pair of RS Q3, two S4, an RS e-tron GT, and the highly anticipated RS 6 Performance. It’s worth noting that the RS 6 Performance is exclusively designated for heart-pounding hot laps, conducted by skilled instructors who ensure an unforgettable and adrenaline-pumping experience for enthusiasts.

Audi Ice Experience RS6 Performance in snow

Summing It Up: Audi Ice Experience’s Lasting Impression

Overall, my time at the Audi Ice Experience is something I’ll never be able to forget. For those passionate about cars, the Southern Hemisphere Proving Grounds is something you have to experience at least once in your life. In the end, it’s not just about driving on ice; it’s about embracing the extraordinary, pushing your limits, and forging memories that will last a lifetime.

To secure your spot at this unforgettable event in the future, simply sign up for our emails and be sure to select Audi as your preferred brand. We’ll keep you informed and ready for the next Audi Ice Experience adventure.

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