Future Audi RS Models Will Be Even More Extreme Than They Are Today

Oct. 21, 2023 8:56 AM ET byJarryd Neves Design /5 Comments

一个udi is determined to make future performance EVs exciting to drive and look at.

一个s Audi Sport turns 40 years old, Head of Audi Design, Marc Lichte has looked at the brand's most iconic designs while revealing what's in store for future Audi RS models.

Over the last four decades, the brand has established itself as a formidable opponent against BMW M and Mercedes-AMG, sprinkling its performance know-how on everything, from station wagons to supercars. But the models that fascinate Lichte the most are theTT RSand the latest RS6 Avant.

Talking about the TT, the head of design said it was the first Audi to borrow from the Bauhaus art school and put those ideas on the road. But unlike the 'less is more' exterior, the TT RS is powered by a soulful five-cylinder that emits a raucous sound. Sadly, thisbaby supercar is nearing the end, with Audi preparing to cull the TT lineup for good.

The RS6 Avant has also been a highlight. "We uncompromisingly carved the quattro origins into every detail and every line. Anytime I spot an RS6 on the road today, I'm happy to see how consistently we pursued our concept back then," said Lichte.

But what about the future? Lichte says most Audis will be underpinned by one of two platforms - PPE (Premium Platform Electric) and PPC (Premium Platform Combustion).

In developing future RS models, Audi asked itself: "How can we carry the RS genes our customers have been desiring and valuing so far from the [combustion] engineto the electric ageand inspire at least as much - or even totally new - enthusiasm with them?"

The answer lies with Audi RS customers, who desire strong performanceand功能。“我可以完全理解,贝科use it's also the credo of good design. A beautiful form calls for functionality or else the whole thing's for the birds."

The widened track will remain a part of the Audi RS look, even well into the electric future. "In other words, the brawny look that clearly distinguishes the RS [lineup] from their respective base models."

Lichte added that the gap between RS models and the vehicles they're based on will widen in the coming years.

Of course, aerodynamics will play a significant role in developing new Audi RS cars. The head designer notes that range is an important factor in buying electric vehicles. A wind-cheating shape increases range without needing a larger, heavier battery.

"More efficient aerodynamics for longer range is the solution. To achieve that, we keep tweaking it together with our aerodynamicists until there's no more room for improvement."

But that doesn't mean future Audi's will be characterless aerodynamic blobs. Lichte says that Audis, particularly the sportiest models, must "exude an air of timelessness."

Referencing the TT RS again, he noted that the minimalist styling has made it the design icon it is today. "My aspiration is that every RS model, in a purely aesthetic sense, must fit any situation in life and any setting."

TheRS e-tron GTis a classic example of this. It looks thoroughly modern, yet it's still instantly recognizable as an Audi.

Lichte says the most significant challenge he faces, in terms of design, is balancing modernism with classic beauty, especially over time. One way around this is to combine the wide track with larger wheels, which creates the desired proportions. Importantly, every line has a function; there is no space for gimmicks here. Future Audi's will see even further reduction in terms of exterior design.

一个udi is known for its solidly constructed interiors with beautiful materials and classy design. In the coming years, the idea of an Audi cockpit will radically differ from what we're used to. "In other words, how the driver will be sitting, what the seats are going to look like, and how the entire ambiance is perceived," added Lichte.

That being said, it will still feel like an RS inside. Naturally, sustainability will play a significant role in designing and constructing new vehicles. Likerival BMW and its Mini brand, Audi will look at reducing the amount of materials found in the cabin. Unique textiles like recycled materials will be introduced and styled to create a welcoming environment that feels hewn from the solid.

"In a nutshell, we're reimagining that space from scratch."