Audi, the renowned German automaker, has surprised enthusiasts by extending the production of its flagship R8 supercar due to unprecedented demand. Initially slated to conclude in 2023, the production of the high-performance V10 model will now continue until the end of March 2024. The unexpected decision comes as a result of surging demand, particularly in the United States, where sales of the R8 doubled in 2023.
The decision to extend the production of the Audi R8 comes in contrast to the company's initial plan to end the production of the V10 supercar shortly after bidding farewell to the TT in 2023. Audi's Böllinger Höfe factory, which also assembles the RS E-Tron GT, remains active in producing the iconic R8. The R8 V10 GT RWD, introduced in October 2022, was initially thought to be the model's epilogue, but the unexpected demand has prompted Audi to continue its production. While the global sales figures for 2023 have not yet been disclosed, Audi's decision to extend the production suggests a robust demand worldwide. In 2022, Audi sold 1,097 units globally, and in 2021, the figure was even higher at 1,679. The official global sales figures for 2023 are anticipated to be disclosed during the meeting with investors on March 19, providing further insights into the R8's global popularity.
With the conclusion of the R8's production, Audi is not planning a direct replacement, signaling the end of the road for the venerable 5.2-liter V10 engine. This decision is in line with the broader strategy of the Volkswagen Group, which is discontinuing the V10 engine, affecting not only Audi but also Lamborghini's Huracan successor. The replacement for the V10 engine is expected to be a plug-in hybrid powertrain centered around a downsized combustion engine.
Despite the discontinuation of the V10 engine, Audi Sport is not abandoning the concept of a range-topping model. Hints have been dropped about the possibility of an electric R8, potentially built on the Volkswagen Group's upcoming Scalable Systems Platform (SSP). This platform is designed for "iconic cars – sports cars and so on," leaving room for speculation about the return of iconic models like the TT.
Audi's foray into electric supercars is not entirely new, as the brand introduced the R8 E-Tron at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. However, the model faced challenges and was ultimately discontinued after selling fewer than 100 units. Marketing and pricing were identified as key factors contributing to the commercial flop. Audi will need a more effective strategy for its next electric R8, learning from past mistakes and capitalizing on advancements in electric vehicle technology.
The unexpected extension of the Audi R8's production highlights the enduring appeal of this iconic supercar. As the automotive landscape shifts towards electrification, Audi is poised to explore an electric future for its range-topping models. Enthusiasts eagerly await further details about Audi's plans for an electric R8, hoping for a strategy that combines cutting-edge technology with a more accessible price point. The continued success of the R8 demonstrates that, even in the face of evolving industry trends, there remains a strong demand for high-performance, iconic sports cars.
Wael is an automotive content writer specializes in creating written content for Motor 283. Producing a wide range of content, including blog posts, articles, product descriptions, reviews, and technical guides related to cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles, with an unprecedented passion for cars, and motorcycles.
Chevrolet has unleashed the unthinkable in the Corvette ZR1. The King of the Hill returns with the most powerful V8 ever produced in America from an auto manufacturer, mind-bending specs, and iconic design to challenge the world’s best supercars in both coupe and convertible variants.
• Corvette ZR1 features a 5.5L, twin-turbocharged DOHC flat-plane crank V8 engine dubbed the LT7.
• The LT7 engine produces 1,064 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 828 lb-ft (1123 Nm) of torque at 6,000 rpm, per SAE guidelines — the most power ever from a factory Corvette and the most powerful V8 ever produced in America from an auto manufacturer.
• Corvette ZR1 boasts a GM-estimated top speed of over 215 mph (346 Kph) on the racetrack and will dispatch the quarter mile with a GM-estimated sub-10-second time1.
• Purposeful carbon fiber aero package creates over 1,200 pounds (544 Kg) of downforce at top speed.
• ZR1 revives one of the most iconic styles in Corvette history: the split rear window.
“The team that revolutionized Corvette with a mid-engine architecture took on another challenge: take ZR1 to the next level,” said Scott Bell, vice president, Chevrolet. “Corvette ZR1 is about pushing the envelope with raw power and cutting-edge innovation. From Stingray, to Z06, E-Ray, and now ZR1, the Corvette family continues to elevate with each new iteration — and challenge the best in the world.”
The new 2025 Ram 1500 is now available in the Middle East, featuring an all-new 3.0-liter Hurricane engine family that brings more power, performance, and improved fuel efficiency.
“The new 2025 Ram 1500 brings our customers more: more power, more performance and more fuel efficiency with our all-new 3.0-liter Hurricane engines,” said Chris Feuell, Ram brand CEO – Stellantis. “With a choice of new and proven gas engines or our upcoming electric truck offerings, Ram is built to serve truck buyers everywhere. Our new powertrain offerings add to the unique combination of bold styling, leading-edge innovation and technology, durability and capability Ram customers have come to know and love.”
The automotive world is abuzz with the announcement that Lanzante, the renowned vehicle specialist known for transforming track-focused machines into road-going marvels, is set to convert the Red Bull RB17 hypercar into a street-legal version. This ambitious project aims to bring Adrian Newey’s V-10 beast from the racetrack to the public roads, and while the challenge is daunting, Lanzante's track record suggests they are up for it. The Red Bull RB17, designed by the legendary Adrian Newey, is a testament to cutting-edge engineering and performance. The track-only version of the hypercar weighs a mere 1,984 pounds, making it lighter than a Mazda MX-5 Miata ND. Yet, despite its featherweight design, it boasts a staggering 1,200 horsepower. This immense power allows it to lap Silverstone a second quicker than a Formula 1 car, according to recent simulations.
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