In a rapidly changing automotive world, Audi is firmly holding onto its electric sports car project, the Concept C. Scheduled for 2027, this car could well mark a turning point for the four-ringed brand, despite rumours of reconsideration. So, what is the real situation?
Reassuring confirmations
The latest news regarding the successor to the TT and R8 is rather encouraging. The work on this 100% electric sports car does not seem to be in question, at least for now. An Audi spokesperson told our colleagues at Motor1.com USA that the programme is progressing as planned, labelling the recent rumours as “pure speculation”. Daniel Schuster did not wish to go into details, but his position is clear: the project is on the right track.
Audi Italy has also taken care to temper concerns by stating that no official indication has been given regarding potential delays or cancellation of the programme. It seems that the parent company wishes to stay the course, come what may.
The situation at Audi (and Porsche)
However, these assurances come in a context of turbulence at Porsche. A Bloomberg article mentioned a possible cancellation of the future 718 Boxster and Cayman electric models due to development costs deemed too high. This situation has raised questions about the future of the Audi project, as the Concept C is expected to rely on a shared electric platform within the Volkswagen group.
The technical link between Audi and Porsche thus appears evident. By sharing the architecture of the 718 EV, Audi could reduce the timelines and costs associated with this niche model, produced in low volumes. However, if Porsche were to actually decide to abandon its electric sports cars, Audi would face a dilemma: either abandon the Concept C or invest heavily in a platform to purchase, with expected sales rather limited.
The next steps
Audi seems to be waiting for Porsche’s final decision before taking decisive action. If everything is confirmed, the production version of the Concept C will be exclusively electric, with no thermal version on the horizon. So, prepare for an electrically operated targa roof, like the prototype, with no fixed-roof coupe version planned, contrary to intentions at Porsche.
The objectives remain ambitious, with a presentation expected by the end of next year. We should, however, learn more in the coming months, so keep an eye on the evolution of this promising project.
