For those interested in ordering a fresh Audi R8, swift action is required, as the luxury sports car will bid adieu after the 2023 model year, as officially confirmed by Audi.
Audi is commemorating the impressive journey of the nameplate, which commenced in 2008 and encompassed two generations, by shining a spotlight on the R8 at the ongoing 2023 Monterey Car Week in California.
Audi R8 Overview
A limited number of 2023 R8 supercars are participating in this year’s Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion held at Laguna Seca. These vehicles will gracefully maneuver the racetrack on August 19, led by Tom Kristensen, a nine-time Le Mans victor, driving an RS E-Tron GT. This particular car will take over as the flagship model for Audi Sport after the retirement of the R8.
Each R8 showcased in Monterey boasts a distinctive wrap designed by Frank Lamberty, the creative mind behind the original R8’s exterior design. Lamberty is also available to connect with enthusiasts and patrons.
2023 Audi R8
The news of the R8’s departure doesn’t come as a tremendous surprise. Last year, Audi introduced the R8 V10 GT RWD special edition as a final tribute to the R8’s 5.2-liter V-10 engine.
Audi has yet to reveal its upcoming plans, but the company has a firm commitment to exclusively launch electric vehicles beginning in 2026, extending this resolve to the Audi Sport division as well.
A glimpse into the potential successor of an electric R8 can be found in Audi’s PB18 E-Tron concept, introduced in 2018. This concept showcased solid-state batteries, which are lighter and quicker to charge compared to current liquid-type batteries. This technology aligns with the plans of Audi’s parent company, the Volkswagen Group, for the latter half of the decade.
Similarly, the Lamborghini Huracán, a close relative of the R8, is also approaching its departure. A successor is anticipated to arrive in late 2024, projected to utilize a variation of the Revuelto’s carbon-fiber platform along with a novel V-8 plug-in hybrid powertrain.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Legacy celebration
What is the significance of 2023 for Audi R8?
2023 marks the final year of production for the Audi R8, a legendary supercar that has been in production since 2008.
How is Audi commemorating the legacy of the R8?
Audi is celebrating the R8’s legacy during the 2023 Monterey Car Week in California by showcasing the car and organizing special events.
Are there any special events involving the 2023 R8?
Yes, a few 2023 R8 supercars are participating in the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, where they will be driven on the racetrack by notable figures like Tom Kristensen.
What will happen to the Audi R8 after 2023?
After 2023, the Audi R8 will no longer be in production. The automaker is transitioning to focus on electric vehicles, with the Audi Sport division also moving in that direction.
Is there any hint about the future of Audi’s sports cars?
While specific details are not provided, Audi’s PB18 E-Tron concept from 2018 offers a glimpse into what an electric successor to the R8 might look like, featuring advanced solid-state battery technology.
How does the Lamborghini Huracán relate to this?
Similar to the Audi R8, the Lamborghini Huracán, a corporate cousin, is also reaching the end of its run. A successor with new features is expected to arrive in late 2024.
What’s the focus of Audi’s parent company, Volkswagen Group?
The Volkswagen Group, Audi’s parent company, is gearing towards introducing advanced technologies like solid-state batteries for electric vehicles in the latter part of the decade.
5 comments
huracán followin’ r8’s path. new gen, carbon-fiber twist, hybrid powertrain, late 2024. excitin’ times!
r8 & huracán takin’ a bow. wonder what’s next? pb18 e-tron’s like a sneak peek, batt tech sounds rad!
audis turnin’ electric, 2026 full ev lineup. pb18 e-tron’s buzzin’, solid-state batts, faster charge, can’t wait!
whoa, audi r8 saying bye? sad vibes. loved seein’ ’em at Monterey Car Week. audi goin’ electric, big change!
2023 r8s hittin’ the track, vroom! tom kristensen leadin’, le mans champ! gonna miss those roaring engines.