Audi's CEO has officially put an end to rumors regarding the potential cancellation of its electric sports car, the Concept C, confirming that the vehicle is slated for production within the next two years. This declaration reassures enthusiasts and stakeholders about the brand's commitment to its electric performance lineup. The Concept C, described as a "serious product," is expected to revitalized Audi's image and introduce a fresh design direction for future models. Despite anticipating modest sales figures, the company views this electric sports car as a crucial statement of its renewed vision and quality focus, especially after acknowledging past criticisms regarding interior quality.
Audi's Electric Sports Car: A New Era of Design and Performance
In a decisive move, Audi's CEO, Gernot Döllner, clarified the future of the Concept C electric sports car. During an interview with Australia's GoAuto, Döllner confirmed that the two-seater electric vehicle, first unveiled last September, will be available in the market within the next 24 months. This announcement directly refutes earlier speculations about the project's termination, which arose amidst discussions concerning Porsche's electric 718 and its potential impact on Audi's corresponding model.
Döllner emphasized the Concept C's status as a "serious product" and underlined the strong collaborative efforts between Audi and Porsche in developing the vehicle's platform. An internal letter to employees last month also reinforced these plans, asserting that the delivery of the platform by Porsche is proceeding without issues. The car, featuring an innovative electrically folding targa roof, is not intended as a successor to the iconic TT but seeks to evoke a similar groundbreaking impact through its entirely new design philosophy. Chief Creative Officer Massimo Frascella noted that the concept car already embodies approximately 87 percent of the final production design, with Audi confirming that only the targa body style will be offered.
Addressing recent criticisms, Audi plans for the Concept C to mark a return to more intuitive physical controls and a discreet, integrated infotainment system, moving away from the screen-heavy interiors of contemporary models. Oscar da Silva Martins, Head of Product and Technology Communications, acknowledged that Audi's quality had room for improvement and affirmed the company's dedication to re-establishing its high standards. The production model is anticipated to utilize the VW Group's PPE Sport platform, featuring a rear-mounted electric motor with an option for a dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration. The concept weighed around 3,725 pounds (1,690 kilograms).
A Bold Statement in the Electric Performance Arena
The decision to proceed with the Concept C despite projected "very low five digits" in annual sales underscores Audi's strategic intent to make a bold statement in the electric performance sector. This electric sports car is more than just a new product; it represents a tangible commitment to innovation, design excellence, and a rejuvenated brand identity. By introducing a distinctive electric performance vehicle, Audi aims to capture the attention of a specific, discerning clientele while signaling a broader return to its core values of quality and progressive design. This move could redefine perceptions of electric sports cars and cement Audi's position at the forefront of automotive evolution.