Here we discuss the future direction of Audi in terms of electric vehicles (EVs) and hint at the possibility of a third-generation R8 being an EV.
Key Points
- Audi is working on a third-generation R8 that could be electric.
- The company’s Technical Development division is using the Volkswagen Group’s upcoming Scalable Systems Platform (SSP) to develop high-performance electric vehicles.
- Audi’s first EVs riding on SSP are scheduled to come out early in the platform’s life cycle, which means that an electric R8 could be released in the next few years.
- It is possible that the electric R8 could be related to the Porsche Mission X concept, as both companies are developing high-performance electric vehicles on the SSP platform.
- However, it is too early to say for sure when an electric R8 will be released, or what its specifications will be.
Here are the main points
- Audi’s Historical Attempt with EVs:
- Audi launched the R8 E-Tron in 2015, but it was not commercially successful with less than 100 units sold.
- In 2018, Audi showcased its EV aspirations with the PB18 E-Tron concept, although it did not move to production.
- Potential Electric R8:
- There are indications from Audi that they are considering an electric R8 for launch later in the decade.
- Oliver Hoffmann, in charge of the Technical Development division at Audi, hinted at a third-generation R8 in an interview with Autocar.
- Hoffmann mentioned that Volkswagen Group’s upcoming Scalable Systems Platform (SSP) can be adapted for “iconic cars – sports cars and so on.”
- While specific details were not provided, there were indications that work has begun on electric versions of R8 and/or TT
- Audi’s Transition to EVs:
- Audi plans to launch its last combustion engine model in 2025.
- From 2026 onwards, all new Audi models will be EVs.
- Audi’s Q6 E-Tron, set for a 2024 release, will use the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, co-developed with Porsche.
- The SSP will combine elements from both the MEB and PPE platforms, aiming to underpin around 80% of the VW Group’s future EVs.
- Audi’s first EVs on the SSP platform are expected to be introduced early in the platform’s lifecycle.
- Porsche’s Involvement:
- Porsche will utilize a variation of the SSP called the SSP Sport.
- A new flagship electric SUV, codenamed K1, is in the works for Porsche, expected to launch in the latter half of the decade.
- Porsche’s CEO, Oliver Blume, describes the K1 as having “impressive performance” and a “new interior experience.”
- Porsche’s Mission X concept envisions a potential future electric supercar.
- It is uncertain if Audi’s R8 EV would be related to the Mission X concept, but sharing technologies could be a cost-effective strategy.
Conclusion
Audi is firmly steering its trajectory towards electric vehicles, showcasing this intent by hinting at the electrification of its iconic models like the R8. With plans to cease the launch of combustion engine models by 2025, Audi’s focus on EV platforms like the SSP reveals a comprehensive strategy to embrace electric mobility.
Collaborative efforts within the Volkswagen Group, especially with Porsche, highlight a shared vision and a synergistic approach to technology and platform utilization. As the automotive landscape shifts, Audi’s endeavours signal a commitment to innovation and a sustainable future in transportation.
The main takeaway is that Audi is heavily investing in EV technology and is aligning its iconic models, like the R8, with this direction. The collaboration within the Volkswagen Group, including Porsche, suggests a shared strategy and technology platform to expedite the transition to electric mobility.
