by The New Electric Successor to the Audi TT
Audi is not going to abandon compact sports cars, despite the fact that the TT model has already been discontinued. Instead, the brand has already begun testing prototypes of its electric successor, which was recently presented in the form of the impressive Concept C concept. This model not only has to meet high expectations but is also being developed in record short timeframes.
Development Speed and Chinese Influence
To keep up with the fast pace set by Chinese automakers, Audi plans to launch the new electric sports car in just 30 months after project approval. This approach is a significant step for a brand that has traditionally not rushed development.
Chinese speed in Ingolstadt is being realized thanks to this car – about 30 months for development, which is truly a revolution for us.
Commonality with Porsche and Brand Uniqueness
The electric TT successor will share many components with the future electric Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman models. All of them will be built on a modified version of the PPE platform, jointly developed by Audi and Porsche. The battery pack will not be placed on the floor, as in most electric cars, but behind the seats, which will provide weight distribution and handling characteristics similar to mid-engine sports cars.
Despite the technical similarity, Volkswagen Group CEO Oliver Blume emphasized that each model will retain its uniqueness.
We have very clear brand identities that are strongly distinct between Porsche and Audi. This is what we do within the Volkswagen Group, defining clear brand identities.
Emotions and Driving Pleasure
According to Audi’s Technical Director, Jeffrey Bukoh, the company aims to ensure that the electric TT successor is as exciting to drive as possible.
It’s about emotions and driving pleasure, while focusing on what is truly important. You want to enjoy the drive, receiving only the necessary information at the right moment – and we are actively working on this.
Bukoh added that Audi is not trying to exactly copy the handling characteristics of the TT or current mid-engine models, but rather is inspired by them and adapts them for the electric version. He also noted that the company does not plan to use artificial tricks to enhance the driving experience.
It’s about acceleration, handling capabilities, and stability. We can finely tune all the sporting characteristics, but I wouldn’t say we copied anything.
Arguments in Favor of Electric Sports Cars
For those who believe that the lack of an engine reduces engagement, Blume offered a simple solution: get behind the wheel and test the car.
They should take it for a drive. You feel the closeness to the road, hear the tire noise, and it’s an incredible driving sensation. Direct steering opens up many possibilities and also provides incredible agility.
Regarding design, Audi executives reported that the production model will be very close to the Concept C concept – about 90% of the concept car’s style will carry over to the production version. If the schedule is met, the new model will appear by 2027, completing one of the fastest development cycles in Audi’s history.
Electric sports cars are gradually proving that they can be no less emotional and exciting than their internal combustion engine predecessors. Audi engineers are focused on providing the driver with pure driving pleasure, avoiding unnecessary technological excesses. This could become a new chapter in the world of sports cars, where speed, stability, and environmental friendliness combine perfectly.
