Official: Audi Concept C goes into production, electric sports car to arrive within two years

No longer a concept, but a “serious product”

The rumour mill was running at full speed. Would Audi abandon its sports‑car ambitions? Would Porsche’s PPE platform be scrapped? And what if Porsche’s electric 718 never happens? According to Audi CEO Gernot Döllner, the answer is clear.

In an interview, Döllner stated that whenever Audi presents a concept, it always reflects a serious production intent. The Concept C, unveiled in September, will go into production no later than 2027. That is notable for two reasons:

• The car will be fully electric

• The market for electric sports cars is, let’s be honest, a niche

Audi appears well aware of this. Internal forecasts point to annual sales volumes in the low five figures. This is not a volume model, but a statement.

What exactly is the Concept C

The Concept C is a two‑seat sports car with an electrically retractable targa roof. It positions itself between the former Audi TT and the Audi R8. But it is not a TT revival. Audi describes it as a reset of its design philosophy.

Chief Creative Officer Massimo Frascella previously confirmed that the concept already matches the final production version by 87%. In other words, this is not a show‑car fantasy, but a realistic preview.

Technology: PPE Sport with a “mid‑energy” layout

The Concept C will use an adapted version of the PPE platform developed by the Volkswagen Group together with Porsche. A key detail: the battery is positioned ahead of the rear axle to simulate a mid‑engine dynamic.

In concept form, the car weighed 1,690 kg and featured a rear‑mounted electric motor. A dual‑motor AWD version is also planned. In short, Audi is targeting driving engagement, not just straight‑line acceleration figures.

Fewer screens, more feel

Perhaps even more important than the drivetrain is the interior. While recent Audi models have leaned heavily on screens, the Concept C signals a return to physical controls and a restrained infotainment system integrated into the dashboard.

Audi has openly acknowledged that perceived interior quality has suffered in recent years. With this model, the brand aims to feel premium again, not just digitally, but tactilely. That is a clear message.

What if Porsche cancels the electric 718

A shadow still hangs over the project. If Porsche were to cancel the electric 718 Boxster and Cayman, it could impact the shared platform strategy.

Döllner explicitly denies that scenario. According to him, delivery of the PPE platform is not in question, and cooperation between Audi and Porsche remains constructive. In other words, Audi is not allowing strategic uncertainty at its sister brand to slow things down.

AutoNext take: not a volume car, but image therapy

Let’s be honest. The Concept C will not rescue Audi’s sales figures. This will not be a Golf GTI‑style success story. And going electric‑only inevitably turns away part of the traditional sports‑car audience. But that may not be the goal.

In recent years, Audi has faced criticism over design, interior quality and positioning. Too many screens. Too little emotion. Too little character. The Concept C is a signal. A repositioning.

The real question is not whether this car will be commercially successful. The question is whether it is credible enough to restore Audi’s sporting relevance.

We do have one reservation: a combustion engine behind the seats would have made this story even stronger. But perhaps that is nostalgia talking. What is clear is this: Audi is taking risks again. And that alone is positive news.