AUDI has slashed the tethers that, until now, have bound most of a series of wild Gran Turismo concept cars to the virtual world, taking the bold decision to build a working version of its incredible e-tron Vision Gran Turismo.

Like numerous concepts before it, the Audi e-tron Vision Gran Turismo was created to do battle in the Polyphony Digital driving simulator, but the German car-maker is one of few to bring the vehicle from the electronic arena into the real world.

The fully functional concept will serve as a track taxi at the various Formula E racing series destinations around the Europe, offering esteemed Audi guests a ride on board the one-off all-electric racer, chauffeured by former DTM race ace Rahel Frey and Le Mans winner Dindo Capello.

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Underneath however, the concept could not be more different to the IMSA. It features permanent four-wheel drive but instead of a highly-strung five-cylinder, the e-tron wheels are powered by two electric motors on the rear axle and a single electric unit that drives at the front.

Creating the e-tron Vision Gran Turismo took 11 months using the computer game car as the template but, while some manufacturers have given their GT concepts substance as 3D full-scale models, Audi is the first to breathe life into its offering.

As the first German manufacturer to enter the Formula E racing league, Audi says this latest emissions-free vehicle is further evidence of its commitment to alternative energy and electric vehicles that don’t have to sacrifice performance.

“With the Audi e-tron Vision Gran Turismo race taxi we are turning electric mobility into a tangible experience for our customers and guests as part of the Formula E races – in the middle of the world’s metropolises.”