Heist at ABT Sportsline: Thieves strip German tuner of $324,000 in parts overnight!
Seven high-end cars were left on blocks after thieves made off with wheels and carbon-ceramic brakes, racking up an estimated loss of €300,000 (around $324,000). The attack, clearly carried out by professionals, has launched a full-blown police investigation, with Daniel Abt himself addressing the incident on LinkedIn.
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A surgical robbery executed by experts
This wasn’t just a simple wheel theft—it was a meticulously orchestrated operation. According to Daniel Abt, company CEO and former Formula E driver, the thieves cut the power and lighting around ABT Sportsline’s parking lot before striking under the cover of darkness. Their precision suggests that these high-value components were targeted well in advance. Images shared on LinkedIn reveal an Audi RS6 stripped of its wheels and brakes, left sitting helplessly on blocks. While it’s unclear which other cars were affected, it’s evident that the most valuable models in the inventory were the primary targets.
Stolen parts worth a fortune on the black market
What makes this case even more intriguing is the value and rarity of the stolen parts. Unlike standard wheels, ABT’s forged ultra-lightweight rims are custom-made for high-end performance builds. As for the carbon-ceramic brakes, they are extremely expensive, likely costing around $10,000 per car, and are highly sought-after in the performance tuning world. The biggest challenge? These components are nearly impossible to find on the second-hand market, meaning the thieves knew exactly where and how to resell them. Some of these parts may have already been shipped overseas, making the investigation even more complex.
A wake-up call for high-end vehicle security
This isn’t the first time a major auto tuner or a luxury dealership in Germany has been targeted. Recently, an Aston Martin dealership in the same region fell victim to a similar heist, fueling speculation that an organized criminal network is behind these attacks. In response, Daniel Abt announced that ABT Sportsline will be ramping up security at its facilities. The company is now considering high-definition surveillance cameras, reinforced lighting, and connected security systems to prevent future incidents. For owners of high-performance vehicles, this serves as a stark reminder of how prestigious cars are prime targets. Investing in locking wheel nuts, onboard security cameras, and private garages with alarm systems is now more crucial than ever.
A major blow to ABT, a tuning icon
This heist doesn’t just affect ABT’s reputation—it highlights the exceptional value of the vehicles and componentsdeveloped by the brand. Founded in 1896, ABT Sportsline has become a global leader in high-performance tuning and custom modifications. From the RS6 Legacy Edition to the RS7 LE, ABT continues to push the limits of performance and design, often delivering more power than Audi’s own factory models. The company goes far beyond aesthetic upgrades, excelling in carbon engineering and bespoke performance enhancements. While this theft is a setback, ABT has a history of overcoming challenges. With its strong presence in motorsport (DTM, Formula E) and deep expertise in high-performance engineering, the brand remains a force to be reckoned with on the global stage.
This article covers the high-stakes heist of $324,000 in parts at ABT Sportsline, highlighting the thieves’ precision, the value of the stolen parts, and the security challenges faced by high-end tuners. As the investigation unfolds, the case underscores the rising demand for high-performance modifications and the need for increased security in the world of prestige automobiles.
Source & images: © Daniel Abt on LinkedIn / © ABT Sportsline
