For years, Audi has been hinting at an electric supercar to succeed the mid-engine R8. This plan took root when the PB18 e-tron concept was unveiled at Pebble Beach in 2018. Though Audi has been coy about confirming production details, recent reports suggest that a successor to the Audi R8 is in the pipeline within the company, set to be an electric supercar with a mid-engine layout under a different moniker.
As per a recent exclusive by Autocar, a new electric version succeeding the Audi R8 is currently in development stages, even without the official green light from higher-ups. Sebastian Grams, head of Audi Sport, told Autocar that there is a push for an R8 successor from both him and the Audi board. He mentioned, “We are exploring various concepts, and the focus is on electrification. Ideally, the successor will be an electric R8. If we delve into a super-sports car, it will be a two-door concept.”
Grams also confirmed that the electric R8 successor will be constructed at the same facility in Böllinger Höfe, Germany, where some parts of the R8 are currently hand-built: “We will definitely retain the craftsmanship as it adds exclusivity to the car among the other models in the lineup. If we introduce a successor to the R8, we aim to retain this approach. It holds sentimental value for the customer. There’s a touch of love within an R8.”
When this new electric supercar hits the market, it will not carry the R8 badge, nor will it aim to emulate its predecessor. Instead, it will establish its own identity and uniqueness.
While nothing is set in stone, Autocar predicts that the forthcoming R8 successor might share the electric platform with the next-generation electric Boxster developed by Porsche. Porsche, in its design, is apparently striving to replicate the mid-engine feel by positioning the batteries behind the driver. However, Grams assured that if Audi utilizes a shared platform with Porsche, the driving experience will be distinct from Porsche’s.
“We have brands within the Volkswagen Group that can benefit from synergy. Despite utilizing the same platform, the e-tron GT stands out distinctively from the Taycan.”
An electric supercar from Audi appears to be on the horizon. When it finally arrives, enthusiasts can only hope for a design reminiscent of the exceptional PB18 concept mentioned earlier. While the absence of the roaring V10 from the current R8 will be felt, Grams remains optimistic that such an electric supercar will embody the essence and passion required to uphold the Audi Sport legacy.