Despite recent rumors suggesting that Audi’s upcoming electric sports car might be in jeopardy, Audi CEO Gernot Döllner has reaffirmed that the Concept C is moving forward. The production model is currently slated for a 2027 release, signaling that Audi remains committed to its high-performance electric future.
The Vision: A Modern Successor to the TT
The Concept C—known internally as the “C-Sport” —is designed as a sleek electric coupé. Its aesthetic language draws inspiration from the iconic Audi TT, aiming to capture the spirit of a classic sports car within a modern, electrified framework.
To achieve this, Audi is utilizing the PPE Sport platform. This specialized architecture is a highly customized version of the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) used in the Audi Q6 e-tron and the Porsche Macan Electric. Unlike standard EV platforms, the PPE Sport is engineered specifically for driving dynamics:
– Low Center of Gravity: The battery pack is positioned behind the driver, mimicking the layout of a traditional mid-engine supercar.
– Optimized Geometry: This placement allows for a flat floor and a significantly lower seating position, essential for a true sports car experience.
Navigating Uncertainty at Porsche
The doubt surrounding the Concept C stems from recent strategic pivots at Porsche. Late last year, Porsche significantly scaled back its electric vehicle roadmap, a move involving roughly €3.1 billion. These shifts led to industry speculation that Porsche might cancel the next-generation electric 718 Boxster and Cayman, which would theoretically jeopardize the shared platform Audi relies on.
However, Döllner has addressed these concerns directly. In a recent communication with Autocar, he emphasized the strength of the partnership:
“Porsche will stay to that platform. We will be able to bring that car to the market in 2027, and we are working intensively and very positively together with Porsche to make that car happen.”
A Divergence in Strategy
While the platform itself remains stable, the application of that technology may differ between the two brands. There is growing evidence that Porsche is exploring ways to “reverse-engineer” the PPE Sport platform to accommodate internal combustion engines (ICE).
This suggests a potential divergence in how Audi and Porsche approach the premium sports segment:
1. Audi appears focused on a pure electric path for the Concept C.
2. Porsche may be hedging its bets, potentially offering petrol-powered models alongside or even instead of fully electric versions to satisfy traditional enthusiast demands.
Conclusion
Audi is doubling down on its electric sports car ambitions, aiming to launch the Concept C by 2027 using a specialized shared platform. While Porsche’s shifting electrification strategy introduces some variables, the technical foundation for Audi’s next performance icon remains firmly in place.
