Audi’s CEO has expressed the brand’s need for a sports car, highlighting the iconic status of the Audi TT. The TT, a beloved model that has seen three generations since its debut in 1998, was discontinued in 2023 after selling an impressive 662,762 units. However, there is speculation that the TT may make a comeback in an electric form.
In a recent interview with AutoExpress, Audi CEO Gernot Döllner discussed the possibility of an electric TT, stating that while traditional combustion engines or hybrids are preferred for racing cars, electric power could be suitable for everyday road use. Döllner envisions a future where fully electric sports cars will serve as enjoyable companions for leisurely drives through scenic routes, with the convenience of recharging while taking a coffee break.
The transition to electric power for the TT would likely involve a shift to a different platform, such as the MEB platform used in vehicles like the Volkswagen ID.3 and Audi Q4 E-Tron. A move to a rear-wheel-drive architecture for an electric sports car would address criticisms of the TT’s front-wheel-drive bias and enhance its performance capabilities.
Audi may also consider the Porsche-Audi PPE architecture, found in models like the Q6 E-Tron and the new electric Macan, as a potential platform for the electric TT. This platform could offer varying power outputs and support Audi’s vision for an affordable electric sports car.
With Audi’s Chief Creative Officer Massimo Frascella at the helm of design, the future TT could embody a minimalist and Bauhaus-inspired aesthetic, reminiscent of the original TT’s timeless design. Frascella’s upcoming concept car debut at the IAA German motor show in Munich may signal a new design direction for Audi.
While the return of the TT as a rear-wheel-drive electric model is an enticing prospect, Audi’s current financial challenges may influence the brand’s decision to prioritize resources elsewhere. The unveiling of the IAA concept will provide insight into Audi’s strategic focus moving forward.