Concept cars are usually built only to impress on auto show floors, but Audi’s latest creation is breaking that rule. The new Audi Concept C has been officially registered for street use — a rare move for a prototype vehicle. To make it road legal, Audi added practical features such as turn signals, windshield wipers, and a horn, transforming what was expected to be a static display car into a fully functional machine.
Unlike many concepts that can barely move under their own power, the Concept C can actually drive — and quite fast. Its rear-mounted electric motor allows it to reach speeds of up to 90 mph (145 km/h). The production model, planned for 2027, will offer much higher performance. Despite being a concept, the car weighs about 3,725 pounds (1,690 kilograms), similar to a rear-wheel-drive R8 V10 Spyder, and it features a cleverly positioned battery pack behind the driver, giving it a layout similar to a mid-engine sports car.
Audi says the Concept C rides on a newly developed EV platform that will also be used by other Volkswagen Group brands, likely making it related to Porsche’s upcoming electric Boxster and Cayman models. While current details are limited, Audi confirmed that a dual-motor Quattro version is already under development for even greater power and performance.
Most of the design seen here will make it to production, with Audi’s Chief Creative Officer confirming that about 87 percent of the exterior design will remain unchanged. The Concept C also introduces Audi’s first electrically retractable hardtop, which will be the only body style in production—no fixed-roof coupe is planned.
Although many fans hoped for a successor to the TT or R8, Audi insists this is a new chapter in its electric performance lineup. The company aims to sell the model in low five-digit numbers annually, with CEO Gernot Döllner confident it will still be profitable thanks to shared development costs within the VW Group. While the Porsche twins will keep their gasoline engines, Audi’s new sports car will be EV-only, marking a bold step toward the brand’s electric future.
