Audi Backtracks on Petrol Engine Phase-Out – Performance Fans Rejoice

Well, well – looks like Audi's putting the brakes on its electric revolution. Autocar's latest scoop reveals the German marque has quietly binned its ambitious 2033 deadline to go fully electric. Seems those growling combustion engines aren't ready for the scrapheap just yet.  

Only last year, Audi bosses were singing a different tune – throwing serious cash at hybrid tech while keeping one eye on an all-EV future. The official line? "2033 means no more petrol Audis." Fast forward to today, and that rigid timeline's gone out the window faster than an RS6 at full chat.  

Here's the kicker: while EU lawmakers are still gunning for 2035 electrification targets, Audi's playing it smart. Why? Because the numbers tell an interesting story – EVs account for just 12% of their US sales, though globally that bumps up to a more respectable 30%. They're keeping pace with Mercedes but still eating BMW's dust.  

But let's talk about what really matters – the glorious RS badged beasts. Word is Audi Sport isn't about to neuter its performance lineup. We're talking about the legends – that bonkers twin-turbo V10 in the RS6, the cheeky inline-five from the TT RS. These aren't just engines, they're mechanical symphonies.  

Speaking of the TT... (and here's where petrolheads should lean in). CEO Döllner's playing coy about its potential comeback – R8 sibling in tow. His exact words? "Too soon to say, but don't rule out surprises." Translation: keep your garage space free, lads.  

The bottom line? While the Volkswagen Group's still pumping billions into EVs, Audi's wisely keeping its options open. For those who thought the combustion engine's obituary was written – not so fast. The four rings aren't done with petrol just yet, and frankly, neither are we.  

Now, about that rumoured RS5 with hybrid boost... but that's a story for another day.