Audi Says New Sport Car Concept Is Not A TT Replacement And Will Not Use The Name

The production car based on the concept is expected to fit “almost precisely” between the TT and R8, according to Döllner. This likely means it will bridge the gap in performance and price between Audi’s two sports models.

The TT RS ended production a few years ago, generating 400 horsepower from its five-cylinder engine. In contrast, the R8 featured a V-10 engine with over 600 hp, and the new sports car is expected to fall between these two power outputs.

Döllner added that the car would not bear the TT name. He suggested Audi could give it a real name or something that starts “with an R.” Concept C is not the most inspiring name, but Audi’s boss admitted that “Sometimes it’s easier to develop a car than find a name for it.”

Incorporating artificial elements into electric vehicles is not a new concept. Lexus introduced its first electric vehicle with fake gear shifts. Porsche may take this idea further by adding simulated gears and artificial engine noises. Additionally, Ferrari has filed a patent for a virtual engine and gear-shift system for its cars.

Even the upcoming electric M3 features a simulated exhaust note, while Kia has incorporated fake gears into the EV6 GT. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N has seemingly perfected this approach. However, not every automaker has embraced artificiality. Dodge’s new Charger Daytona EV might have a fake sound, but it lacks a simulated gearbox.

It’s essentially skeuomorphism applied to cars. Skeuomorphism is a trend where a digital product maintains the familiar appearance, feel, and functionality of its real-world counterpart. For instance, the camera app on your smartphone still includes a shutter sound. Similarly, electric vehicles (EVs) feature fake gear shifts and artificial engine noise to create a sense of familiarity for those who have only driven gasoline-powered cars.