Audi is expanding its A6 family to include an electric variant, which was recently spotted in prototype form. Known as the A6 E-Tron, this electric model was first unveiled as a concept in 2021. Audi followed up with an A6 Avant E-Tron concept last year, and prototypes for the wagon version are currently undergoing testing. The production model of the A6 E-Tron, initially scheduled for release in 2023, has been delayed and is now expected in 2024 as a 2025 model in the U.S. It will compete against the Mercedes-Benz EQE sedan and high-end versions of the Tesla Model S hatchback.
Based on the spy shots and video, the production version of the A6 E-Tron closely resembles the concept. The concept car measured the same length as the gas-powered A6, and the production model is expected to be of a similar size. However, there will be some differences, such as slightly more ground clearance and actual side mirrors instead of camera stalks. The LED light bar that formed the taillights on the concept is hidden beneath camouflage gear on the prototype. The headlights of the prototype feature a twin element design, differing from the thin slits at the top of the concept’s headlights. A similar headlight design will also be used for the related Q6 E-Tron SUV, set to debut soon.
The A6 E-Tron and Q6 E-Tron will be among the first vehicles built on Volkswagen Group’s PPE modular EV platform, developed primarily by Audi and Porsche. The first Porsche on this platform will be the electric Macan, which has also experienced launch delays, now expected in early 2024. Audi has confirmed that the A6 E-Tron will be available in single-motor rear-wheel drive and dual-motor all-wheel-drive configurations. The concept version featured a dual-motor setup with 469 horsepower. Additionally, the concept had a 100-kWh battery, providing over 300 miles of range and capable of charging from 5-80% in under 25 minutes due to 800-volt technology. Audi is also working on a sporty S6 E-Tron and may offer a high-performance RS 6 E-Tron in the future.
Despite the upcoming launch of the A6 E-Tron, the current gas-powered model will remain available for a few years, potentially with an A7 badge. Audi is planning a new naming strategy, where electric models will have even numbers in their names, while internal-combustion models will have odd numbers.
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In conclusion, Audi’s A6 family is set to expand with the introduction of the A6 E-Tron, an electric variant that will closely resemble the concept version. With the use of Volkswagen Group’s PPE modular EV platform and Audi’s focus on performance and range, the A6 E-Tron is expected to be a strong competitor in the luxury electric sedan market.
