A German company has unveiled plans to produce a bespoke electric sports car, inspired by a motorsport legend from the 1980s.
Bavarian-based Elegend wants to build 30 examples of the EL1, which resembles a neo-futuristic version of an Audi Sport Quattro.
It should be noted that the EL1 is not endorsed, or badged, as an Audi.
Currently a design proposition, Elegend aims to have a prototype version assembled by 2022.
Future Nostalgia
Founded by designer Marcus Holzinger, Elegend has a team of motorsport and design experts ready to build the EL1. Investors are still being sought to help move the project along.
Holzinger claims to have been influenced by motorsport legends since he was a child. He adds that he is “fascinated by both race driving and driving at the limit”.
As a result, track usage is at the forefront of the EL1’s design. This includes a carbon fibre monocoque chassis, three-way adjustable suspension, and the ability to engage Sport mode.
A projected kerb weight of 1,680 kg sounds suitably impressive for a modern rally recreation.
Real rally performance
Just like an actual Audi Quattro, the EL1 features an all-wheel drive setup. Electric motors will offer up an impressive 600 kW (805 hp), allowing for 0-62 mph in just 2.8 seconds.
A top speed of 158 mph is on par with internal combustion-powered German sports cars.
Elegend promises that the 90 kWh battery pack will allow for almost 250 miles of range when fully charged. Or, more importantly, two full laps of the Nürburgring Nordschleife race track at high speed.
Standard equipment should include 150 kWh fast charging, a multimedia touchscreen, and rear view cameras.
Even better than the real thing?
Initial production will be limited to 30 examples, all made by hand. Two other series of production, again capped at 30 cars, should follow later.
The price tag for the EL1 will be an eye-watering €890,000 (£763,000)… BEFORE taxes.
In comparison, genuine Audi Sport Quattros have averaged between £300,000 and £400,000 at international auctions. Arguably, those looking to spend close to £1 million on an EL1 are likely to already have a real Quattro in the garage.
Audi previously teased the idea of recreating the Sport Quattro as a 2013 concept. Shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Audi’s own hybrid proposition remained as a show car.
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