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Audi completes takeover of ABT Formula E team ahead of works entry

2017 FIA Formula E Championship : Paris E Prix

PARIS, FRANCE - MAY 20: In this handout image supplied by Formula E, Lucas Di Grassi (BRA), ABT Schaeffler Audi Sport, Spark-Abt Sportsline, ABT Schaeffler FE02 during the FIA Formula E Championship Paris ePrix on May 20, 2017 in Paris, France. (Photo by LAT Images / Formula E via Getty Images)

Handout

Audi has completed its takeover of the ABT Schaeffler Audi Sport team ahead of its works entry to Formula E at the start of season four in December.

Audi has been working in Formula E via the ABT team since the beginning of the series in 2014, but stepped up its involvement ahead of season three last fall.

A heavier presence was part of its plan to convert the ABT team into a full factory entry for season four, with the transition process being completed and confirmed on Friday.

“We’ve been supporting the Formula E commitment with increasing intensity in recent months, on the race days, in the development of the new powertrain and in numerous off-track activities as well,” Audi board member Dr. Peter Mertens said.

“That Audi will be the first German automobile manufacturer to be actively involved in the racing series starting next season is also a clear commitment of our brand to electric mobility, on the race track as of December and next year on the road as well with the new Audi e-tron.”

“Formula E delivers spectacular motorsport in the hearts of fascinating cities and is a tremendous stage to present electric mobility and motorsport in their most emotive forms,” added head of Audi motorsport Dieter Gass.

“We’re currently seeing an extremely exciting season with a gripping title race. I’m happy that now everything has been put on track for a successful future too.”

As part of the transition, ABT Schaeffler Audi Sport will be renamed Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler. Existing drivers Lucas di Grassi and Daniel Abt are both on long-term deals and are set to be retained for seasons four and five.

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