Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2023, Audi Sport is continuing development of a range of internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered performance cars. The carmaker's plan to introduce combustion engine RS models built on a separate architecture was revealed by Audi design head Marc Lichte in a recent interview.
Lichte clarified forthcoming RS-badged vehicles will predominantly utilise two platforms. The first is the PPE (Premium Platform Electric), intended for electric vehicles, and the second is the PPC (Premium Platform Combustion), tailored for vehicles with internal combustion powertrains. Currently, larger Audi models are based on the MLB architecture, which the Volkswagen Group has employed since 2012.
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Lichte addressed the challenge of transitioning from internal combustion engines to electric power while retaining the essence of RS models that customers have cherished. This approach is supported by feedback from customer surveys, which is why a separate architecture has been adopted for electric RS models.
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Audi has previously outlined its plans to transition to an all-electric lineup. In the next couple of years, the company will unveil its final new car powered by a combustion engine. Starting in 2026, all new Audi products will be exclusively electric, and by 2033, the luxury brand will cease selling internal combustion engine vehicles entirely.
