The Audi R8 could already have its future mapped out: a PHEV powertrain is on the horizon for the supercar

There is a lot of speculation surrounding the Audi R8, a supercar that stays true to a tradition that, sadly, is being lost. It is true that the strict anti-pollution regulations aim to protect the well-being of the planet, forcing numerous manufacturers to reinvent themselves. Audi, which has already taken action with its e-tron family, seems to be planning the future of its most performance-oriented vehicles, where there is, without a doubt, room for the Audi R8.

Many claimed the R8 would have no successor, while others pointed to a high-performance electric vehicle taking its place; but it seems the answer will ultimately be something else. The fact is that Audi has created a very interesting market niche with its RS and S range, and it would be a shame -and a bad strategy- to erase them.

The house of the four rings is cautious and is already preparing for tomorrow, a tomorrow in which PHEV and electric powertrains will take the lead. With this premise, it is easy to predict that, in addition to sporty e-tron vehicles filling the ranks of Audi as we have already seen, we will also find S and RS models taking a step further thanks to plug-in hybrid powertrains.

The Audi R8 fits perfectly into this group of vehicles that will succumb, in one way or another, to electrification. In this way, we can expect an R8 with similar characteristics but supported by a second electric motor capable not only of providing more power, but also lower emissions, an electric mode and a significant reduction in petrol consumption.

At the same time, this PHEV system would also help protect the colossal 5.2-litre naturally aspirated V10 engine that powers the current Audi R8. If so, we could be talking about a third generation capable of exceeding 700 CV of power and enjoying all the advantages that the DGT ECO label would provide. Of course, there would also be the possibility of driving in EV mode, with a longer range than we might be imagining.

Either way, it seems that Audi is already prepared to take the next step. If so, we could be talking about a Audi R8 PHEV at the end of next year, the date on which the range of high-performance plug-in hybrids would begin to expand with more members of the RS and S family.