Whenever automakers bring out test mules, they usually use a different vehicle. They do this to either throw off spy photographers or see if a similar platform can be used for an upcoming vehicle. Since Audi and Porsche are part of the Volkswagen Auto Group, it's not surprising that Audi borrowed what looks to be a 718 Boxster for its latest test mule.

But why is Audi using a Porsche test mule in the first place? Well, the Ingolstadt-based automaker is reportedly looking to build an electric sports car that will be similar to the TT. That's right, the famed sports car, which sadly went away a few years ago, as Audi pivoted towards electric mobility. But with Audi looking to build an electric sports car of its own, it looked to the Porsche 718 Boxster for help.

Before you grab your pitchforks and say that Audi is desecrating the TT's heritage, the automaker has said that it will not carry the TT name. Instead, the upcoming electric sports car will be similar in size to the Audi TT.

As for the test mule that was spotted by our spies recently, the vehicle in question features widened fenders and high-voltage stickers placed all over the vehicle. This further indicates that the test mule may well indeed be Audi's attempt to build an electric sports car for the future.

Other details about the Audi test mule remain a mystery. However, it will most likely feature an 800V architecture to support fast DC charging, as well as power a pair of powerful electric motors. Since Porsche is already developing an electric version of the 718 Boxster/Cayman, Audi might collaborate with the Stuttgart-based brand to lower costs, while still making a unique product.

With our spies only catching a glimpse of a test mule, it looks like the prototype version of Audi's electric sports car may still be a long way away. Hopefully, our spy photographers will be able to get more pictures in the future.