Everything Electric: Audi Stuns With Red-Blooded EV Roadster Concept
Audi shows EV concept with brilliant adjustable wheelbase to fit different driving modes.
Audi recently released a sneak peek up their upcoming EV concept. Named “Skysphere” it is the first of three upcoming all-electric vehicles. If this is any indication of Audi’s new direction in e-mobility, we are all in. Because they built something really special with the Skysphere EV.
The Skysphere is distinctly elevated with ingenious technology and strikes a bold, intimidating stance; it is one sexy car. No we are not going to qualify that as “…for an electric car.” Skysphere is a beautiful and appealing car, period.
Audi will debut the Skysphere concept at Monterey Car Week on Pebble Beach. And people will talk.
All electric, the two-door convertible hopes to illustrating Audi’s vision for the progressive luxury segment of the future. To that end, the Skysphere itself showcases remarkable technology and an interactive, luxe interior.
Skysphere was motivated by a concept to design for two different driving experiences: a grand touring experience and a sports experience. And they achieve this by using a (genius) variable wheelbase. Amazing idea, this allows the driver to change comfort and driving dynamics.
To expand or contract the wheelbase, electric motors work with a mechanism of body and frame components that easily slide into one another. This extends the exterior length of the car by 9.8-inches and adjusts ground clearance by 0.3-inch.
And it does so easily, efficiently, and smooth as butter.
Touch a button to engage various driving modes. “Sports” mode reduces the wheelbase and employs rear-wheel steering to offer a nimble capability. While the long, lean autonomous “Grand Touring” driving mode is marked with a serene ride, and the ability to kick up your heels and let Audi take the wheel.
Inside it is roomy, open, and offers incredible visibility. Extensive connectivity and digital services are well integrated, and together the look is cool and futuristic, but still feels driveable.
Designers took elements from the classic Horch 853 roadster, mainly a more compact cabin with long front end. But the very different Skysphere has an electric motor positioned on the powered rear axle that sends power to the wheels. Able to zip from 0 to 60 mph in about four seconds, it makes about 620 hp and 553 pound feet of torque. And about 310 miles of range per charge.
As a concept, it is a very exciting idea. And while Audi doesn’t plan any autonomous technology in the near future, we certainly would love to see the adjustable wheelbase on the market. Well, we really want to see the Skysphere in our driveway.
It all comes together powerfully. The use of LED lighting, the smooth but menacing lines, and the varying wheelbase feature; it is really interesting.
A little Batmobile, a little Jeckyll & Hyde, the Skysphere is completely fascinating. Not only is it a masterclass in design; the Skysphere offers a compelling look at the great heights Audi and other automakers might reach in the future.
Photos: Audi