2026 will be the year when Audi will introduce the final new model equipped with a combustion engine, with everything after it to feature an all-electric powertrain. The confirmed switch to EVs will bring major design changes, and to preview what lies ahead, the peeps from Ingolstadt have prepared a trio of concepts to provide a window into the electric car of tomorrow.
The first of the bunch will be the Skysphere, originally teased on June 23 and now for the second time before its August 10 world premiere. What is it? A high-end roadster seen as a modern-day equivalent of the Horch 853 A convertible from the 1930s and equipped with all the technology Audi can throw at a concept. That will include the ability to turn the concept into a rolling lounge thanks to a fully autonomous driving system.
The fresh teaser images provide a closer look at the intricate design details of the Skysphere, including bright red accents that extend to the corporate Four Rings logo. An illuminated take on Audi’s Singleframe grille lends the spectacular concept a familiar identity even though the showcar looks as if it traveled back from the future.
The wheel design is also quite intriguing as it does not have conventional spokes. It appears to be a fully enclosed wheel with multiple elements arranged diagonally atop the closed-off dish wheels. The illuminated pattern at the front will have a correspondent at the back for the full-width taillights featuring multiple triangular elements in a mirrored layout.
Technical specifications have not been provided by Audi but the Skysphere appears to be strictly a two-seater and it might not have a roof at all. If it does, it’s likely a removable targa panel since there doesn’t seem to be enough room in the back for a folding top, be it a metal or a fabric one. The extremely long hood is quite puzzling seeing as how the concept does not need the space usually associated with vehicles equipped with bulky combustion engines.
Following the Skysphere’s debut next week, Audi will roll out the Grandsphere in September at the 2021 IAA Munich while the Urbansphere will follow in the first half of 2022.
Source: Audi
