In a remarkable demonstration of engineering prowess and creative design, a group of apprentices at Audi's Neckarsulm facility has crafted the stunning GT50 concept car. This special project serves as a fitting homage to the German automaker's legendary five-cylinder engine, which will mark its golden jubilee next year, five decades after its inaugural appearance in the 1976 Audi 100.
The Audi GT50 is the culmination of six months of dedicated effort by fourteen apprentices, working under the expert guidance of their instructors and Timo Engler, the Head of Automotive Technology, Logistics, and Business Management Training in Neckarsulm. The concept car, while outwardly bearing little resemblance to its origins, is structurally derived from a standard RS3 sedan. The apprentices meticulously dismantled the donor vehicle, removing all original body panels, including the hood, doors, windows, and trunk lid, to make way for a completely redesigned exterior.
The new angular bodywork of the GT50 is meticulously constructed from lightweight glass fiber-reinforced plastic, a departure from conventional sheet metal or carbon fiber. This choice of material contributes to the vehicle's agility and performance. At the rear, the GT50 boasts a prominent diffuser and a large spoiler, elements designed to optimize aerodynamic efficiency and enhance its racing-inspired aesthetic. Intriguingly, the roof panel of the concept car was repurposed from an Audi 80, adding a touch of historical continuity to this modern creation.
The design of the GT50 concept draws significant inspiration from Audi's illustrious racing heritage, with unmistakable references to iconic models such as the Audi 90 Quattro IMSA GTO. Audi itself has acknowledged the strong visual and thematic connection, suggesting that a contemporary interpretation of the 90 Quattro would likely bear a striking resemblance to the GT50. This design philosophy bridges the gap between past glories and future innovation.
Inside the cabin, the transformation is equally dramatic. The RS3's interior was completely stripped out and reconfigured with high-performance racing equipment. A particularly noteworthy accomplishment by the apprentices was the fabrication of a custom, handmade roll bar, a task that demanded two weeks of meticulous craftsmanship. Under the hood, the GT50 is powered by Audi's renowned 2.5-liter TFSI five-cylinder engine. Although official performance figures have not been released for this concept, if the engine retains its stock specifications, it would deliver an impressive output of approximately 394 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque.
The GT50 concept is not an isolated incident but rather the latest in a series of groundbreaking projects undertaken by Audi's apprentices. Previous notable creations from the Neckarsulm team include the RS6 GTO from 2020 and an electrified NSU Prinz. These projects consistently highlight the apprentices' exceptional talent, passion, and collaborative spirit, qualities highly valued by Audi board member Xavier Ros, who oversees human resources. This ongoing tradition of innovative concept development underscores Audi's commitment to nurturing future talent and pushing the boundaries of automotive design and engineering.
