Perhaps something Audi themselves should consider making too in its electrified future?
There appears to have been a rather large wave of nostalgia sweeping to the auto industry these days, as there seems to be more and more modern reinterpretation of classic icons grabbing headlines in recent time. The latest of which being this new E-Legend EL1 seen here, which is a stunning all-electric homage to the all-conquering Audi Quattro S1 rally car from the good old days.
Starting with the heart of this modern Quattro homage first, the 2.1-litre turbocharged inline-five has sadly been consigned to the history books. Fortunately however, what this German startup has decided to replace it with is just about as innovative as what Audi has stuffed under the hood of the original car when it first shocked the rally world all those years ago.
That is because the EL1 features an all-electric powertrain consisting of three motors (1 up front and 2 at the rear), which churns out a not-at-all insignificant 600 kW (805 hp). Sending all that power (naturally) to all four wheels, the century sprint time for this EV Quattro tribute is claimed to take just 2.8 seconds. The charge to 200 km/h meanwhile will apparently take less than 10 seconds, with V-Max pegged at around 255 km/h.
Now speaking of charge, power to the tri-motor setup is derived from a 90 kWh liquid-cooled lithium ion battery pack that yields 400 km of range on a single charge. The power pack is reportedly also able to support both AC charging up to 22 kW as well as DC fast charging up to 150 kW, and comes with the same 800 V charging tech alá Porsche Taycan too.
E-Legend however has yet to publicly disclosed where exactly it will be sourcing the powertrain and power pack for the EL1. Though it did instead tout the EL1’s ability to lap the Nurburgring twice in its on a single charge, even when driven in its power-hungry Sport Plus mode.
Continuing a bit further about not knowing the finer details, it is much the same story in regards to the EL1’s chassis too. All that is known at this point in time is that it will be based on a super-light and proven carbon monocoque, with extensive use of carbon-fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) on the exterior and interior to keep its kerb weight at the targeted 1,680 kg.
In terms of the design aspect of the interior and exterior on the other hand, the concept renderings of the EL1 undoubtably carries more than its fair share of design cues from the Quattro that it is paying tribute to. Such is evidenced by the triple air vents on the square bonnet up front, the bulging boxy wheel arches down the side and the shortened deck round its rear.
There has nevertheless been a concerted effort by E-Legend to spruce up that iconic design somewhat for the modern age, like with the significantly modernised front end that somehow still manages to look rather reminiscent to the original Audi Quattro. Other modern design touches worth highlighting includes the massive white-painted staggered alloy wheels (19-inch up front, 20-inch behind), in addition to the custom spoiler that sits just above a futuristic full-width rear light cluster and a motorsport-spec rear diffuser.
Moving on inside, a similar theme of retro meets modern plays out within the cabin of the EL1. This in turn equates to a straight-edged yet minimalistic dashboard layout, with a total of four display screens. Two of which are incidentally for the wing mirror cameras, while the other two are for the digital instrument cluster and central infotainment system.
The wing mirror cameras however are not the only convenience features available within the EL1, as this entirely road legal homage to the Audi Quattro also features multimedia connectivity, climate control, front and rear reversing sensors, as well as a rear-view camera. A frunk and a trunk are also part of the package too for added practicality, not to mention electric windows and an optional lift system for its three-way adjustable suspension.
As for the big question on how much the EL1 costs, each will be retailing from €890,000 (RM 4.4 million). Do note too that E-Legend will also only be making 30 of these modernised EV Audi Quattros.
Having said that however, there will apparently be two further rally-inspired models to come from this German startup in the future too. So do watch this space!
PRESS RELEASE: ELEGEND AG i. G. lifted its veil and, at an exclusive evening event, provided not only insights into its founding structure but also a preview of the first final product. A supercar with a focus on curves called the EL1. The form should follow the function and the function interacting with the form should touch the heart of the driver. Following this guiding principle, a Bavarian high-tech company is currently taking shape. Staffed with experienced heart-and-soul automotive experts from the areas of design, technology and sales. The goal of ELEGEND AG is to transfer analog primal instincts of emotional driving into the modern world.
This is implemented with a unique platform based on a super-light and proven carbon monocoque. In its first stage of development, this automobile is powered by electric motors achieving 600 kilowatts (816 hp) and wears an extremely enchanting dress in the style of one of the unforgettable technical wonders of the legendary rally era. The specifications state a maximum vehicle weight of 1,680 kilograms. A range of 400 kilometers. A track capability of 2.8 seconds from a standstill to a speed of 100 km/h. At least 2 laps on the Nordschleife with record ambitions as well as the fast charging function on 150 KW DC systems. The supercar, which is limited to just 30 units, is dedicated entirely to the pleasurable pursuit of curves and thus ensures a unique position in the flourishing market for electrified supercars.
Following the current planning, the EL1 will be succeeded by two more icons of the same type with a limitation to 30 vehicles each. The result will be 3 x 30 legends with electric hearts. For the launch of the almost completely set up ELEGEND AG, supporters are still being sought. These can contribute in form of a share participation with a nominal value of 290.00 euros per share. A declaration of intent for the acquisition of shares can be found HERE.
Tradition and vision oblige. And now that the International Motor Show is welcoming its international audience in the state capital of Munich for the first time this fall, the EL1 will be warming the hearts of its future owners there as well.
The sales location in Beilngries is waiting to welcome you!
