Thieves Make Off With $320,000 Worth of Wheels and Carbon Ceramic Brakes from ABT, Leave 7 Vehicles on Blocks | Carscoops

      Local authorities are looking into the thefts that occurred at ABT’s headquarters in Kempten, Germany.

      A group of thieves targeted seven tuned cars from ABT, taking valuable components.

      Daniel Abt confirmed that the thieves cut power and lighting to conceal their actions.

      Authorities are currently investigating the incident, and ABT intends to enhance its security measures.

      For many years, ABT has been known for building, tuning, and racing some of the most remarkable European cars available, gaining a reputation that has spread beyond Germany. However, this recognition has attracted a group of thieves who recently raided ABT’s parking area at their German headquarters, making off with approximately €300,000 (around $318,000) worth of parts from several vehicles.

      Daniel Abt reported that seven cars were targeted late at night last Sunday. The thieves didn't just steal a few wheels; they meticulously dismantled the vehicles, taking wheels as well as the costly carbon ceramic brake discs and rotors. The tuning company suspects this operation was not carried out by amateurs, mentioning that the power supplies and lighting in the parking lot were disabled to keep their criminal activities concealed.

      A photo shared by the company's CCO on LinkedIn shows one of ABT’s black Audi RS6s resting on bricks after having its wheels and brakes removed. Although it is uncertain which other vehicles were affected, it is reasonable to assume the thieves aimed for the most expensive components available. Forged wheels and carbon ceramic brakes are highly valuable, and it is likely that many of the stolen parts have already been sold or shipped abroad, making them difficult to recover.

      According to the tuning house and racing team, local authorities are investigating the theft. However, it appears that ABT's security measures were lacking. Daniel Abt acknowledged that the company would "definitely revise our security concept" following the thefts.

      Unfortunately, wheel thefts occur globally. Vehicle owners with valuable wheels should consider investing in lock nuts to deter potential thieves. Another effective measure is to install front and rear-facing dash cameras that connect directly to a fuse or battery and can record while the vehicle is off, aiding in identifying any culprits.