Audi’s Future Electric RS Models and the Influence of Formula 1
Audi is setting its sights on an electrified future for its high-performance RS models, and it appears that the company’s nascent Formula 1 program could play a significant role. The automaker recently unveiled a concept hypercar called the Scorpion, which was originally conceived in 2013 but never made it to production. The Scorpion, displayed at Audi’s museum in Ingolstadt, Germany, showcased design and technical elements influenced by the brand’s successful endurance sports car racers, particularly the R18 E-tron Le Mans racer and DTM touring cars.
While technical details about the Scorpion are scarce, Autocar reported in 2013 that Audi had been working on a hypercar called the ‘R10’ with a 600bhp diesel-electric powertrain. Although neither the Scorpion nor the R10 made it to production, Audi’s entry into Formula 1 in 2026 could pave the way for a new racing-inspired halo car. Other automakers, such as Mercedes-AMG, Red Bull, and Aston Martin, have already seen the benefits of Formula 1 in their road car lineup.
Audi CEO Gernot Döllner expressed an interest in using a racing-inspired model as a brand-building tool and an R&D outlet. While details are still being discussed, Döllner mentioned that Formula 1 aligns perfectly with Audi’s philosophy and its performance-oriented hybrid strategy. However, he clarified that the focus would be on overarching learnings rather than direct technical influence. The efficiency mindset, racing spirit, and team setup from Formula 1 are seen as more important than the specific technology.
As Audi continues to electrify its sports car lineup, the retirement of the R8 halo supercar raises questions about what will take its place. The upcoming RS5, which will be Audi Sport’s first plug-in hybrid, is set to debut next year, combining a petrol V6 with a rear-mounted electric motor. Additionally, Audi plans to expand its pure-electric lineup with RS versions of the A6 and Q6 E-tron. However, it remains to be seen how Audi will top its increasingly electrified sports car lineup and whether combustion will still play a role.
In conclusion, Audi’s foray into Formula 1 and the influence of its motorsport efforts on future sports cars indicate an exciting electrified future for the brand’s RS models. While the Scorpion hypercar concept from 2013 may not have made it to production, it serves as a strong indication of Audi’s intentions. The company’s CEO expressed interest in using Formula 1 as a source of inspiration for a new racing-inspired halo car, focusing on overarching learnings rather than direct technical influence. As Audi continues to electrify its lineup, the retirement of the R8 raises questions about what will come next, but it’s clear that the brand is committed to embracing performance-oriented hybrid technology.
