ELegend EL1: Audi Quattro revived as 805bhp EV
German firm ELegend has recreated the iconic Audi Sport Quattro for the electric age, with production starting next year
In the electric era, some manufacturers are taking inspiration from models of the past to capture the desirability and character that’s missing from most new EVs. Bavarian firm ELegend is the latest to head down the retro route with this: the EL1. Designed from the ground up as an all-electric homage to the Audi Sport Quattro, the EL1 is limited to just 30 units and packs supercar-grade materials and EV technology underneath its evocative bodyshell.
The proportions are unmistakably Quattro, even if the EL1 isn’t quite as stubby as the infamous short-wheelbase homologation special from 1984. Triple bonnet vents and swollen wheel arches serve as nods to the original, but the ELegend is underpinned by a thoroughly modern chassis construction.
At its core is a carbonfibre monocoque, with aluminium subframes and double wishbone suspension front and rear. It’s no lightweight at 1790kg, but with a dual electric motor setup rated at 805bhp, the EL1 launches from 0-62mph in just 2.8sec, with 124mph flashing by just 4.7sec later. The powertrain will be tuned for a top speed of 186mph, and 360mm four-pot brakes take care of shedding all that speed.
The motors draw power from an 80kWh T-shaped battery pack mounted in the central tunnel and spanning behind the front seats. The EL1 claims 249 miles of range (WLTP), but expect that to deplete rapidly when using its performance to the full (ELegend claims that two laps of the Nürburging can be completed with no loss of power). Still, the EL1 does offer 200kW DC charging capability to quickly replenish the cells.
Two driving modes, Standard and Sport, can be selected to change the dynamic character of the car, working in tandem with three switchable damper presets. The EL1 is equipped with a full suite of luxuries including bluetooth connectivity, navigation, a parking camera and electric windows. Exposed carbon and high-end material finishes will feature throughout the cabin, and as ever, a wide scope of customisation possibilities are expected given the EL1’s extremely limited production run. Each will be hand built for an asking price of 890,000 euros (c£760,000) excluding taxes.
