This is a concept car. It heralds a new direction for the long-established prestige German car maker, Audi. This is how they see the electric vehicles (EV) in our future: Introducing the Concept C. As with all concepts, the end product often bears no relation to what is is proposed but this does not seem to be the case on this occasion.
For lovers of true sports cars, the news some time ago that both the premium Audi R8 V12 supercar and the much-loved Audi TT sports car were to be discontinued caused dismay. Was our future driving to be solely behind the wheel of ubiquitous SUV’s? Well, fortunately it seems not. Looking closely at the Concept C it is clear that elements of both those lamented sports car are still there in the styling and the vehicle retains a proper steering wheel and not some steering device from a light aircraft. A couple of images shown here feature how much the proposed model resembles its predecessors.
The good news of course is that MHH International offer recent, superb, used examples of both the Audi R8 and the TT, which are still available to buy for export from the UK to worldwide destinations including Kenya and New Zealand and many more locations. Indeed most new and used latest model Audi vehicles are available and the current MHH International stock lists can be found on these pages. Please get in touch for more information; meanwhile here’s more on the Concept C.
The Vision
This car is designed as an all-electric two-seat sports car that embodies the premium brand’s new design philosophy and paves the way for the electric future. From every angle, the concept car demonstrates radical simplicity, the core of the new Audi design philosophy, doubtless informed by the need to be slippery through the air.
The model features a vertical frame that reimagines the brand’s legacy and a distinctive four-element light signature. The roof offers the benefits of a convertible while retaining the essence of a sleek, monolithic body style. High-quality materials are used as would be expected from this company, famed for its fit and finish.
The Modern Exterior
The vertical frame forms the centre of the new front end from which the entire structural shape of the vehicle develops. Inspired by the original Auto Union Type C from way back in 1936 and the third-generation Audi A6 for example, it has a clear, upright form that conveys presence and identity. In short, this is a progressive interpretation of Audi’s legacy, showcasing the Audi rings whilst integrating forward-looking technology.
A strong shoulder line defines the volume of the two-seat sports car. Its proportions result from a central-battery layout. The cabin extends far back and sits firmly in the body. Interestingly, an electrically retractable hardtop is used on an Audi roadster for the first time. It is comprised of two roof elements which allow the vehicle to retain its shape, while also enabling an open-top driving experience. At the rear, clean surfaces and horizontal slats underscore the car’s sporty character.
The Audi Concept C introduces a new light signature featuring four horizontally arranged elements in each headlight and rear light. This design element will apparently define Audi’s visual identity during both day and night, ensuring an unmistakable presence on the road. The exterior of the Audi Concept C is presented in the colour ‘Titanium’ but, as ever, the finished product will have, no doubt, many options. The shape evokes technical elegance and is inspired by the lustre of its namesake metal, a material that embodies precision, lightness, and strength.
A Sophisticated Interior
A minimalist design ensures the interior is free from distractions. ‘Shy tech’ solutions (the integration of minimalist technology) and solid haptic controls create an intuitive and ultra modern setting.
The interior features strong architectural surfaces and clear geometric forms that ensure space for both occupants while subtly placing the driver at the centre. Manufactured from anodised aluminium, physical controls (a good thing) provide a tactile experience that reflects mechanical quality through their appearance, feel and an unmistakable click.
The steering wheel forms the core of this refined tactile experience: its characteristics – the round shape, the sophisticated haptic elements and the Audi rings made out of real metal in the centre, are crafted with the utmost technical precision. Every material contributes to the pure and sophisticated atmosphere of the interior, they say. The colour palette is also inspired by titanium and exhibits rather soothing tone-on-tone harmony. Natural materials create a refined, warm, and elevated environment. Indirect ambient lighting with natural hues accurately reveals the materials and enhances the interior design’s evident solidity.
Technology enables progress, so they say. Intelligent technologies create a seamless experience that appeals to modern motorists. The display and operating concept are also aligned with this philosophy. For example, the 10.4 inch foldable centre display provides users with relevant information in an intuitive way and in context, tailored to every situation. Together with the haptic controls on the steering wheel and centre console, the design achieves clarity and precision in user interaction; in other words the controls are exactly where they are expected to be.
Does It Work?
This writer believes it does for the simple reason that the design is super-modern but crucially does not go too far into science fiction territory. This, then, is the first manifestation of Audi’s new design philosophy. The Concept C previews the design of future automotive products plus a new interior experience, embodying universal design principles: a reduction to the essential without superfluous lines or elements and an attractive commitment to geometric design. As previously mentioned, the concept, in Audi’s words, is ‘defined by a vertically oriented frame inspired by the iconic Auto Union Type C racing car’ and the vehicle design certainly focuses the eye. Reduction to the essential is also reflected in the interior, which frees users from distractions and provides the right information at the right time through intelligent technology. Just as it should be, otherwise what is technology for?
In the here and now, most current model Audi cars are available for export from the UK. Get in touch with us here at MHH International for more information.
