Audi Nuvolari unveiled as 1,001bhp hybrid supercar, limited to 499 units

The Audi Nuvolari combines a twin-turbo V8 with three electric motors to become the fastest and most powerful road car in the brand's history.

Audi has unveiled the Nuvolari, an all-new limited-production supercar that serves as the brand’s new performance halo. Limited to just 499 units worldwide, the Nuvolari is Audi’s first production supercar to feature a high-performance plug-in hybrid powertrain and incorporates technologies inspired by the company’s Formula 1 programme.

Named after legendary Italian racing driver Tazio Nuvolari, the new model is set to become the most powerful and fastest production vehicle ever to wear the four-ring badge. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the first half of 2027.

Audi Nuvolari powertrain and performance

At the heart of the Nuvolari is a plug-in hybrid setup that combines a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine with three axial-flux electric motors and a 7.3kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The V8 alone produces 800bhp and 730Nm of torque, while the hybrid system delivers a combined output of 1,001bhp (736kW).

Two electric motors are mounted on the front axle, while a third sits between the V8 engine and the transmission. Power is sent to all four wheels through Audi’s latest-generation quattro all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

Audi claims the Nuvolari can accelerate from 0-100kmph in just 2.6 seconds and from 0-200kmph in 6.8 seconds. Top speed is rated at more than 350kmph, making it the fastest road-going Audi ever built.

Formula 1-inspired technology

The Nuvolari introduces several technologies derived from Formula 1. Among the highlights is the new ‘quattro predictive ride’ system, which continuously analyses vehicle dynamics using sensor data such as steering angle, yaw rate, acceleration and available grip levels.

The system proactively adjusts torque distribution, braking intervention and aerodynamic settings to maximise traction, stability and cornering performance. The front-axle electric motors also enable advanced torque vectoring for enhanced agility.

Drivers can choose between four driving modes – E-Hybrid, Balanced, Dynamic and Dynamic+ – while a dedicated Track Mode offers adjustable traction control settings tailored for varying grip conditions.

Lightweight construction and active aerodynamics

Audi has paired its Space Frame architecture with a carbon-fibre exterior for the first time in a production vehicle. Nearly all exterior panels are made from carbon-fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP), helping reduce weight while increasing torsional rigidity.

Aerodynamics play a crucial role in the Nuvolari’s performance. The car features an active aerodynamic package that includes a deployable rear wing with Closed, Low Downforce and High Downforce settings. In its most aggressive configuration, the system can generate more than 400kg of downforce.

The rear wing also incorporates a Formula 1-style Drag Reduction System (DRS), allowing drivers to reduce drag and maximise straight-line speed when conditions permit.

High-performance braking and energy recovery

The Nuvolari employs a brake-by-wire system that seamlessly blends regenerative and hydraulic braking. Audi says the setup can achieve purely electric deceleration of up to 0.3g under suitable conditions.

The new Audi Ceramic Pro braking system features 420mm front discs clamped by 10-piston calipers and 410mm rear discs paired with four-piston calipers. Audi claims the system can absorb up to 2.8 megawatts of energy during heavy braking, delivering performance comparable to a modern Formula 1 car.

Design and interior

The Nuvolari is the first production model to showcase Audi’s new design philosophy. The mid-engined supercar features clean surfaces, integrated aerodynamic elements and a distinctive stance. The launch specification is finished in a new Titanium paint shade, complemented by exposed carbon-fibre accents.

Inside, the cabin adopts a driver-focused layout with a minimalist dashboard, physical controls for key functions and lightweight carbon-fibre bucket seats. Audi says the interior prioritises driving engagement while maintaining a high level of craftsmanship through extensive use of anodised aluminium and premium materials.

With 1,001bhp, a top speed exceeding 350kmph and extensive Formula 1-derived technology, the Audi Nuvolari marks a new chapter for the German marque and establishes itself as the most extreme road car Audi has ever produced.

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