avus

AVUS is a historic motor racing venue in Berlin, Germany. The acronym stands for Automobil-Verkehrs- und Übungsstraße, reflecting its original dual use as a public road and a race track. Opened in 1921, AVUS quickly became one of the world’s premier high-speed circuits, renowned for its long, high-speed straight and relatively few corners.

The circuit played a significant role in European motor racing during the interwar period. It hosted major events, including German Grand Prix races, and served as a testing ground for automotive manufacturers seeking speed and engineering advancements. The design of AVUS emphasized speed, with racing at times approaching very high velocities on the lead straight, contributing to both prestige and notoriety due to the safety standards of the era.

Over the decades, the layout and use of AVUS evolved. After World War II, racing on the circuit declined, and safety concerns led to a reduced role for AVUS as a dedicated motorsport venue. The older track structure was gradually dismantled or repurposed, and the site was increasingly integrated into Berlin’s road system. Today, AVUS largely exists as a public highway, and the original racing circuit is no longer used for professional competition.

Legacy of AVUS endures in the history of motorsport as an early example of a purpose-built high-speed circuit and as a symbol of Berlin’s automotive and sporting heritage. The name AVUS remains associated with the city’s infrastructure and with the early era of European motor racing.