Audi Skysphere concept unveiled; previews new design language

The new Audi Skysphere concept comes in the form of a two-seater electric roadster, with an expandable wheelbase.

Audi has unveiled the first of three concept models, called the Skysphere. The new Audi Skysphere concept previews the brand's new design language, while also giving a glimpse of some of the technologies which could make their way onto future production models.

The new Audi Skysphere concept comes in the form of a two-seater electric roadster, with an expandable wheelbase. This allows the car to transform from a comfortable grand-tourer to a performance-oriented luxury sportscar, at the press of a button.

The Audi Skysphere measures 4.94 m in length in 'sport' mode and expands to 5.19 m in 'GT' mode. The concept also has a width of 2 m and a height of 1.23 m. The wheelbase expands by a maximum of 250 mm.

The design of the concept was conceived at the Audi Design Studio at Malibu, USA, by Gael Buzyn and his team. The Skysphere is said to have inspiration from the 1931 Horch 853. It features a heavily sculpted design, for maximum aerodynamic efficiency. It also comes with LED lighting all-around, 23-inch wheels inspired by the spoke rims of the past, a long bonnet, a single-frame grille and a rear deck covered in glass, hiding the luggage space underneath.

On the inside, the Skysphere concept features a minimalistic cabin layout with a screen spanning the entire length of the dashboard. However, this screen is capable of splitting, receding or drawing near to the driver, depending on the usage. The concept also features a bunch of technologies, including autonomous driving technology.

The Audi Skysphere concept is powered by a single electric motor, mounted on the rear axle. Audi claims it produces 624 BHP and 750 Nm, allowing the Skysphere to accelerate from 0 - 100 km/h in 4 seconds.

The battery capacity on the concept is said to be close to 80 kWh. It is located behind the cabin. However, additional modules can also be added in the central tunnel, which offers the concept a maximum range of 500 km on a single charge (WLTP cycle). The concept is said to tip the scale at around 1,800 kg with 60% of the weight concentrated at the rear.

The Audi Skysphere as mentioned before is the first of three concepts, which also includes the Grandsphere & Urbansphere. The Skysphere will make its public debut at the upcoming Monterey Car Week.