Early last year, former Audi R&D chief Peter Mertens said there are no plans for a direct successor for the R8. While it’s possible that the V10-powered sports car is headed towards the chopping block, the four rings has already started working on its successor, dubbed the R8 e-tron GTR. According to Car Magazine, the new pure electric R8 will borrow key hardwares from the Porsche Taycan, with outputs upwards of 670 hp.
Industry insiders are predicting that the R8 e-tron GTR will be based on the Taycan’s J1 platform (aluminium monocoque chassis), with three electric motors deployed for propulsion duties. Together, the powertrain produces around 500 kW (670 hp), enabling a zero to 100 km/h sprint time of just over two seconds. That’s quicker than the dual-motor Taycan, mind you.
A 95 kWh solid-state battery provides a driving range of 480 km, and all-wheel drive is touted as well. For charging, the car can be juiced via an 800-volt charging station – a four minute charge provides 100 km of range. It can also support DC fast charging of up to 350 kW (CCS charging protocol).
Audi R&D chief Hans-Joachim Rothenpieler said: “Audi Sport must have e-mobility, and our icons for the brand must become electric. We are in discussions regarding the sporty cars and the RS vehicles – they will need a change towards e-mobility. The e-Tron GT will come towards the end of 2020 – that’s the first step. Electrically, you can control things more, and have more of an emotional influence on driving behaviour.”
If all goes as planned, Audi’s growing family of e-tron electric vehicles will be crowned by the R8 e-tron GTR, which is due by 2022. The report also said that Audi will have the latest solid-state battery technology in three years’ time, so expect an upgrade in cell capacity and the current quoted driving range.
Meanwhile, Autocar last September reported that the R8’s successor will be a 1,000-hp electric hypercar. This setup is also eerily similar, featuring three electric motors that produce 570 kW (775 hp) – a top speed of 300 km/h is touted, as well as a blistering zero to 100 km/h sprint time in the low two seconds. Thoughts?
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PB-18 etron concept FTW ….
most likely sharing some tech with the Taycan
this is a good move. this will make Audi R8 unique and special