Every modern automotive manufacturer worth their salt has some kind of motorsports branch, whether it’s tied directly with their company or heavily affiliated through collaboration. For Volkswagen, this would be ABT (pronounced “ahbt” as opposed to “a-b-t”). ABT has had a long history of collaboration with Volkswagen, all the way back to the 1980s, developing performance and aerodynamic kits for Volkswagen Group models. While there are numerous aftermarket performance part producers for Volkswagen Group models, ABT has maintained close ties with the brand through manufacturing and motorsport.
ABT has been in Malaysia for a while now, showing up in various Volkswagen showrooms over the last few years. Everything from full packages to individual parts are available, distributed by FAST (Federal Auto Sports Tuning). These are quality components as ABT has tied up with numerous high-performance manufacturers to provide consistent, reliable products. The exhaust systems are developed by Sebring or Remus, both well known in the European tuner market. Wheels are sourced from BBS, Borbet, or ATS, with a minimum size of 18 by 8.5 inches for most models (or 22 inches and up for larger SUVs). Even the suspension and brake systems are co-developed by Bilstein and Brembo respectively, which is an assurance of quality and consistency.
Unlike smaller scale outfits, ABT has access to much higher end tooling and testing processes. Their equipment used for casting aerodynamic pieces such as bumpers and side skirts holds higher precision over time, allowing ABT to maintain stringent quality control and reduce the possibility of a defect. Parts are also as thick as OEM pieces, meaning that they stand up to the same kind of use and abuse as a stock standard car would endure. But even before these components go to production, they are heavily tested in both wind tunnels and on real world models. These components are TUV approved across the range- both aerodynamic and performance products, so customers can be assured of their reliability in the long run.
While customers have the choice of selecting their own components, FAST provides fully built up ABT-equipped cars as well in order to showcase the full ABT line. There is a configurator available online that allows customers to see a virtual version of their model, along with any of the selected ABT products they wish to equip. The configurator provides a specific code which automatically lists all the parts a customer has chosen, and FAST can use this code to order the parts for the customer. It’s an extra layer of convenience that saves time and reduces the chances of a mix up when a customer personalizes their model.
So if you feel that your standard Volkswagen or Audi is in need of a sharper look, extra power, and a deeper exhaust note- ABT is the right fit for you. The packages provided adhere better to the image of the car, being more subtle in nature- but they still provide a sense of individuality that separates an ABT equipped car from the crowd. Some interior components listed on the website are not available locally as they are only designed for left-hand-drive models, but it’s best to contact your local FAST showroom to enquire on availability.
