During a challenging period for Volkswagen in 2017, as the company grappled with the fallout from the Dieselgate emissions scandal and pivoted towards its electric ID. family of vehicles, a clandestine project was unfolding within its design studios. This ambitious endeavor involved the conceptualization of a captivating electric sports car, a venture that, despite its innovative spirit, ultimately remained a mere vision on the drawing board. Newly surfaced design sketches offer a rare glimpse into what could have been a bold departure for the German automaker, showcasing a dynamic and aesthetically striking interpretation of an electric performance vehicle.
The previously unseen conceptual drawings, recently shared by Štěpán Řehák, Volkswagen's Spokesperson for Design & Concept Cars, on LinkedIn, highlight a truly exciting proposal. Penned by talented designer Tibor Juhasz, this electric sports coupe was conceived to utilize the Volkswagen Group's adaptable MEB platform. Crucially, the design paid tribute to the original Volkswagen SP2, a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe from the 1970s that was developed and built in Brazil. Juhasz's modern rendition aimed to echo the classic vehicle's essence while integrating contemporary electric powertrain technology, presumably with a rear-mounted electric motor, reflecting the configuration of most MEB-based vehicles.
Tibor Juhasz articulated his creative intent for the SP2 concept, developed in 2017, emphasizing a design philosophy that looked towards an electric future while honoring historical design principles. His objective was to advance automotive design without abandoning the core values that define a brand's heritage, striving to infuse the concept with emotion, energy, and a forward-thinking vision. This approach sought to create a vehicle that would not only be relevant for its time but also resonate with enthusiasts for years to come. The sleek lines and robust wheel arches depicted in the sketches suggest a powerful and agile machine, designed to captivate a discerning audience.
However, despite its compelling design and the palpable enthusiasm it generated internally, this compelling electric sports car never progressed beyond the conceptual stage. Volkswagen's strategic focus at the time was firmly directed towards the mass production of electric vehicles aimed at a broader market, such as the ID.3, ID.4, ID.5, and ID.7. While the company did introduce more niche electric offerings like the ID. Buzz, the decision was made not to proceed with the electric sports car, indicating a prioritization of volume and practicality over specialized performance models. This decision aligns with the company's broader transition strategy post-Dieselgate, which centered on re-establishing trust and leadership in the burgeoning EV market through accessible and versatile models.
The cancellation of this electric sports car concept is not an isolated incident in Volkswagen's history of visionary yet unproduced vehicles. Preceding this, other promising concepts like the 2009 BlueSport, a mid-engine roadster, and the 2005 EcoRacer, both diesel-powered, also never saw production. Even the distinctive 2014 XL Sport, which featured a Ducati Superleggera V-twin engine, ultimately remained a concept. However, none of these quite match the allure of the legendary W12 concept. As the automotive industry shifts decisively towards electric propulsion, with impending combustion engine bans in various regions, the possibility of a dedicated electric sports car from Volkswagen remains a topic of speculation among enthusiasts. While Volkswagen has committed to carrying its iconic GTI and R badges into the electric era, a truly standalone electric sports model, akin to this never-realized two-door concept, holds the potential for a far more impactful statement on performance and design. Such a vehicle, though unlikely to achieve high sales volumes, could significantly enhance Volkswagen's brand perception and inject a much-needed dose of excitement, much like Audi’s approach with its renewed focus on dynamic models.