Audi Concept C Offers a Sneak Peek at Electric Sports Car Set for 2027

      Audi

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      Audi's appeal to enthusiasts has certainly taken a hit following the departure of the TT and R8 in quick succession. While the E-Tron GT remains in their lineup, it lacks the pure essence of a sports car. However, there's no need to fret; Audi has been signaling that it is only a matter of time before a new model emerges from the legacy of those coupes. Now, we have the Concept C, set to debut at the upcoming IAA Mobility Show in Munich, giving us a glimpse of what is to come.

      The name might underestimate the significance of the vehicle, as Audi's CEO Gernot Döllner stated: the Concept C is slated for production in 2027 and will closely resemble this prototype. Döllner informed Bloomberg that he anticipates sales in “a very low five-digit number” globally, with a price point positioned between the TT’s ($60,000) and the R8’s ($160,000).

      From the side view, the Concept C exhibits a minimalist design, characteristic of Audi. The seamless curve from the rear deck to the windshield and the cohesive, solid look suggests a vehicle forged from a single block of metal. While some might claim Audi has taken inspiration from Jaguar’s marketing strategies, we could argue that Ingolstadt pioneered this approach. There’s a clear lineage that connects back to the original TT, and Audi also references the 1936 Auto Union Type C and the 2004 B7 Audi A4 as significant inspirations.

      However, the lineage isn’t immediately evident until you view the Concept C head-on. It is bound to evoke mixed reactions. The vertical orientation of the faux grille, along with the upright intakes, is meant to recall classic racers such as the Type C. Additionally, Audi states that the four-beam lighting elements will "define Audi’s visual identity during both day and night" in future models.

      The Concept C also features a power-retractable hardtop—something none of Audi’s sports models have included thus far—and the canopy’s integration with the rear, along with the wheel stance, certainly brings to mind the original R8. Naturally, the Concept C is an electric vehicle designed with a centrally located battery pack.

      The interior, while functional and mechanical, embodies a sophisticated, classic Audi style, highlighted by brushed aluminum buttons, knobs, and switches that feel beautifully substantial. Audi's design leaders describe the aesthetic as "radical simplicity," which appears to aptly capture its essence.

      With production anticipated to start in 2027, Audi has ample time to make adjustments as needed. If we were to speculate, the final version of the Concept C might share its platform with Porsche’s forthcoming electric 718 successor. However, Audi has yet to discuss performance specifics, nor is it imperative to do so at this point. That fresh design is sure to spark discussions for several weeks.

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