The Guinness World Records™ title attempt to drive to the most countries on a single tank of fuel started from Netherlands yesterday. Mile-devouring fuel economy is likely to be a key consideration for most drivers of the 67mpg Audi A6 TDI ultra, but on this occasion it is nothing short of crucial because a Guinness World Records™ title attempt depends on it.
The efficiency of the A6 is to secure the title for the greatest number of countries driven to on one tank of fuel. The project is being masterminded by the RAC, and the organisation is banking on the Audi ultra concept and the innovations in lightweight construction, engineering and driver assistance technology that underpin it to deliver the desired result. It has also enlisted the considerable expertise of motoring journalist Andrew Frankel and racing driver Rebecca Jackson to complement the car with some skilful and judicious use of the controls.
As ferry or rail Channel crossings would invalidate the title attempt the Record Road Trip will begin in Maastricht in the Netherlands, and will continue through Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Switzerland, Lichtenstein, Austria, Germany and Italy towards the Balkans.
The route has been carefully planned to avoid the economy-sapping effects of congested towns and cities, motorways and mountainous regions. Andrew and Rebecca will drive almost continuously, and will employ every technique at their disposal to use as little fuel as possible and maximise their all-important miles-per-gallon figure.
Completely unmodified
A familiar sight on continent-crossing excursions, the Audi A6 ultra was chosen by the RAC for the record-setting adventure because of its excellent fuel economy and large 73-litre tank, but also because it demands no compromises on space, comfort and equipment in return for its outstanding economy, which is delivered with CO2 emissions of as little as 109g/km. Apart from its distinctive body wrap the record car will be identical in every respect to any other A6 ultra en route.
