Audi hints at possible TT revival as electric sports car market heats up

Audi’s iconic TT coupe could return — potentially as a high-performance electric vehicle — although the brand’s chief executive is keeping details vague.

The original 1990s TT coupe “put Audi design on the map”, capturing public demand for stylish yet relatively affordable coupes. While not confirming a revival, Audi chief executive Gernot Döllner told Auto Express: “Yes, that’s thinkable. But we have a broad view on what’s possible.”

Audi reported a 38 per cent drop in operating profit for 2024, down to €3.9 billion, citing tough economic conditions. That would seem to push a sports car down the priority list — but Döllner insists the segment remains important.

“I believe Audi should have a sports car, for sure,” he said. “They remain in the company’s medium-term plan.”

The Volkswagen Group’s Scalable Systems Platform (SSP) will underpin pure-electric successors to Porsche’s mid-engined 718 Cayman and Boxster, due next year. These could form the basis for a spiritual TT successor — unless Audi opts to reinvent the model as a four-seat GT.

Döllner said that for track driving a combustion engine or hybrid is preferable, “but if it’s more for everyday use on normal roads, I would definitely see a transition to the electric era”. Rapid charging — “in the time it takes to stop for a coffee” — is becoming key, he added.

If approved, the next TT could deliver extreme performance, with the SSP platform capable of supporting multiple electric motors producing up to 746kW, along with 800-volt charging. Range is expected to be at least 640km, though battery specifications have not been finalised.

Design will be central to the project. Audi recently recruited Massimo Frascella from Jaguar Land Rover, where he led the new Jaguar GT design. Döllner praised his “focus and minimalistic view” on car design, saying he “tries to work with as little as possible to reach his goals”.

The new TT is expected to echo the original’s rounded silhouette, but with a wider, more planted stance, digital door mirrors, flush handles and a clean glasshouse.

The electric sports car market remains small, with MG’s Cyberster leading the charge. Alpine is developing an electric A110, Lotus is working on an Emira-sized EV, and the next-generation Porsche 718s will also be rivals. Audi, however, may aim for the TT to retain its more attainable pricing.

Production is unlikely to start before 2027, using the SSP architecture shared with the upcoming electric Octavia and Golf, and featuring advanced software co-developed with VW’s US partner Rivian.