Audi confirms electric sports car arriving in 2027, signaling design shift

Audi has definitively confirmed the production of a new electric sports car within the next two years, quelling speculation surrounding the future of the Audi Concept C. The announcement, made by CEO Gernot Döllner, marks a significant step in the brand's electrification strategy and a bold move to redefine its sporty image.

Concept c takes shape: audi's electric future takes form

Döllner revealed that the concept car, initially presented in September, will enter production “within two years,” as detailed in an interview with Australian publication GoAuto. This statement effectively ends rumors of a project cancellation, particularly amidst internal shifts within Porsche concerning the next-generation 718 models, which might have impacted the development of electric sports cars within the Volkswagen Group.

Audi insists the Concept C is a “serious product” and its roadmap remains unchanged. A recent internal memo from Döllner to employees reinforced this commitment, emphasizing the ongoing collaboration with Porsche on the platform development. The delivery of the architecture by Porsche is reportedly on track.

While the Concept C evokes memories of the original Audi TT from 1998 with its conceptual approach and emotional appeal, it won't be a revival of that name. Audi has clarified that the production model will be positioned “almost halfway between the TT and the R8,” indicating a more ambitious placement within the brand’s lineup.

The production version will closely resemble the 90% complete show car. The design represents a pivotal shift for Audi, establishing a new aesthetic language that will influence future production models. According to Audi's Chief Creative Officer, Massimo Frascella, the prototype already anticipated 87% of the final design.

Inside, the sports car will move away from the current trend of excessive screens, opting for more physical controls and a streamlined infotainment system that retracts into the dashboard – a nod to Audi's design language of the 2010s. The company acknowledged a perceived decline in interior quality in recent years and promises to restore the traditionally high standards associated with its vehicles.

Technically, the production model will likely utilize the PPE Sport platform from the Volkswagen Group, with the battery pack positioned behind the rear axle. The concept car weighed 1,690 kilograms and featured a rear-mounted electric motor, with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration also planned.

Döllner championed the integration of a virtual gear selector and a sound system designed to mimic a high-performance combustion engine. He claims these innovations enhance the driving experience, even on a track, stating his personal preference for electric vehicles with virtual gear changes.

The new electric sports car will not be a fourth-generation TT, but it aims to generate similar excitement as its iconic predecessor. The final name remains uncertain; it could potentially revive the R8 moniker or introduce a completely new one. However, Audi has confirmed its commitment to production, with the vehicle slated for a 2027 launch. This isn't just about building an electric car; it's about redefining what an Audi sports car represents.