Audi has unveiled the Nuvolari, a near-production prototype supercar with a hybrid powertrain producing 987bhp. Limited to 499 units, deliveries are expected to begin in the first half of 2027. Audi claims it will be the fastest and most powerful production car in its history, with a top speed exceeding 217mph and a 0-62mph time of 2.6 seconds.
The powertrain combines a mid-mounted 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, which alone produces 789bhp and revs to 10,000rpm, with three electric motors and a 7.3kWh lithium-ion battery. Two oil-cooled motors are on the front axle, and a third sits between the engine and transmission. Each electric motor contributes 148bhp, and the front motors also enable four-wheel drive with precise torque distribution.
The Nuvolari is the first production car to adopt Audi's new design philosophy, previewed by the Concept C. Its styling features taut surfaces, carbon fibre body panels, and a low, wide stance, serving as a spiritual successor to the Audi R8. The name honours Italian racing driver Tazio Nuvolari, reflecting the brand's motorsport heritage following its entry into Formula 1.
Audi has introduced a new system called quattro predictive ride, which uses sensors to anticipate the car's behaviour and adjust motors, brakes, and aerodynamics accordingly. Driving modes include E-Hybrid, Balanced, Dynamic, Dynamic+, and Track Mode, the latter allowing traction settings to be adjusted from wet-weather security to fully disabled.
The body employs an Audi Space Frame structure with carbon fibre reinforced polymer panels. Gernot Döllner, Chairman of Audi AG, said the car demonstrates what is possible when focusing on technology and teamwork. Rouven Mohr, CTO, highlighted the transfer of Formula 1-inspired technologies into a production vehicle.
