Audi's prominent Trans-Continental Crossing was successfully completed on Sunday 24 September 2006 in Broome, WA.
The launch event saw 15 of Audi's new Q7 SUVs depart from Sydney on Father's Day, Sunday 3 September 2006 on a three week, 7,000km journey across the Australian continent from east (Sydney) to west (Broome).
All 15 Q7's arrived safely in Broome on Sunday 24 September 2006 in excellent condition.
In spite of some very challenging terrain around areas like Innamincka and Birdsville where sharp, stony tracks are common, the notorious Mereenie Loop Road and areas of the Tanami Track in WA where the roads were characterised by huge potholes and harsh ruts, the Q7 excelled.
Audi's managing director, Joerg Hofmann, said the Q7 has exceeded the highest expectations of the company under very challenging conditions.
"We now plan to host this adventure annually with vehicles like the Q7, new allroad quattro and Audi Q5. It will hold much interest for Audi guests from Asia, Germany and Europe."
Over the full 7,000km, three week journey, the only technical requirements of the fleet were the replacement of 16 flat tyres and a new pollen filter for each car. One vehicle needed minor cosmetic repairs, however only as a result of human error. All 15 vehicles completed the journey as they started – in excellent condition and free from squeaks and rattles.
"Around 100 guests joined the Crossing during at least one of its four stages between Sydney and Broome and the cars have performed faultlessly, even under the most punishing conditions," said managing director, Joerg Hofmann.
"Aside from two broken foglights caused by rocks being flicked up by other vehicles, the odd screw to be tightened and some flat tyres, the Q7 fleet is in immaculate condition.
"This new model is exceptional and the Trans-Continental Crossing event has clearly proven of its excellent build quality," he added.
Even the massive 'Big Red' or Nappanerica Dune in the Simpson Desert was no match for the Audi Q7 with the new SUV handling the iconic sand dune with ease.
The Q7 has drawn attention throughout the entire journey, with much interest from locals and passers-by. Sales are even expected in towns like Birdsville and Broome following several vehicle demonstrations by guests for interested buyers!
Managing Director, Joerg Hofmann, says the Q7 Trans-Continental Crossing was the ideal way to showcase this important new SUV.
"The Q7 is a true performance SUV. It offers a combination of sportiness, luxury, and endurance. Australia is known for its wide open spaces and harsh climates and whilst the Q7 will predominantly be driven in metropolitan areas, it is essential for our customers to know that their new vehicle is infinitely capable of conveying them across the country should they decide to embark on their own 'trip of a lifetime'," Mr Hofmann said.
The four stages of the Audi Trans-Continental Crossing included;
3 – 5 September 2006
The Harbour City (Sydney) to the Silver City (Broken Hill) via Wagga Wagga and Mildura.
7 – 11 September 2006
The Silver City to the Red Desert (Birdsville), via Tibooburra and Innamincka.
11 – 15 September 2006
The Red Desert to the Red Centre (Uluru), via Clayton River and Coober Pedy.
19 – 24 September 2006
The Red Centre to the Pearl Coast (Broome), via the Tanami Track including Tilmouth Well, Rabbit Flat and Halls Creek.
Our event partners
Audi wishes to thank its event partners Castrol, for the supply of all fuels and oils throughout the journey, and HEMA Maps for the supply of its road atlases and regional route maps. Thanks also to ARB and Engel for supplying car fridges for the event.