Audi is preparing for its biggest model offensive, with more than 20 new models launched by 2025. More than half of them will be fully electric, as the brand with the four rings aims to become a leading supplier of connected, all-electric premium mobility. One of the most anticipated models in this lineup is the Audi Q6 e-tron, which will be the first to use a new technology platform developed jointly with Porsche.
The Audi Q6 e-tron is expected to debut in late 2023 and go on sale in 2024. It will be available in two body styles: SUV and Sportback. The SUV version will have a more conventional wagon-like shape, while the Sportback version will have a coupe-like sloping roofline. Both versions will feature a modern and elegant design, with slim Matrix LED headlights, a faux Singleframe grille that hides many sensors for driver assistance systems, and LED rear lights connected by a narrow light strip.
The Q6 e-tron will also feature split headlamps, which are divided into an upper wedge-shaped part and a lower rectangular part. These could be Digital Matrix LED headlights that can project symbols on the road. The Q6 e-tron will have a large enclosed Singleframe grille in silver between the headlights and a functional air intake below it for cooling purposes.
The Audi Q6 e-tron will be based on the new Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture designed specifically for electric vehicles. The PPE platform has an 800-volt electrical system, which allows for faster charging and higher efficiency than the current 400-volt system used by Audi's existing EVs. The PPE platform also enables various configurations of battery size and powertrain layout.
The Audi Q6 e-tron electric SUV will have powerful and efficient electric motors on both axles, providing all-wheel drive capability. The exact specifications are not yet revealed, but different variants will likely have different performance levels. For instance, Porsche has confirmed that its electric Macan model, which shares the PPE platform with the Q6 e-tron, will have a flagship version with 450 kW (603 hp), 1,000 Nm (738 lb-ft) of torque, and a battery capacity of over 100 kWh.
The Q6 e-tron's battery pack will be located under the vehicle's floor, lowering its center of gravity and improving its handling. The battery pack will also have an innovative charge management system that can optimize its performance and lifespan. The Audi Q6 e-tron is expected to have a range of over 600 km (373 miles) on a single charge.
The interior of the Q6 e-tron will be spacious and luxurious, with a floor-mounted battery providing more room for passengers and cargo. The Q6 e-tron will have a similar interior space as the larger Audi Q7, despite having a smaller footprint than the Audi Q5. The Q6 e-tron will also feature a brand new interior design, with a tablet-style touchscreen infotainment system that sticks out from the dashboard. The screen looks large and high-resolution and will likely run on Audi's latest MMI software.
The Audi Q6 e-tron will also have a digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel, which could be an OLED display with customizable graphics. The steering wheel itself will have a flat-bottom design and multifunction buttons. The center console will have a minimalist layout, with only a few physical controls for climate settings and driving modes. There will also be a wireless charging pad for smartphones and cup holders.
The Audi Q6 e-tron electric SUV will offer seating for up to five passengers, with comfortable and supportive seats upholstered in premium materials. The rear seats will have ample legroom and headroom, thanks to the wide quarter glass windows that let in more natural light. The rear seats will also have their own climate vents and USB ports. The Q6 e-tron will have a generous cargo capacity, which could be further expanded by folding down the rear seats.
The Audi Q6 e-tron will have many advanced features and technologies to enhance its safety, comfort, convenience, and entertainment. Some of these features may include:
- A panoramic sunroof that extends over both rows of seats
- A Bang & Olufsen sound system with 3D surround sound
- A head-up display that projects critical information on the windshield
- A wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- A navigation system with real-time traffic updates
- An ambient lighting system with multiple color options
- A 360-degree camera system with parking assist
- A blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert
- A lane keep assist with adaptive cruise control
- A collision avoidance system with automatic emergency braking
The Q6 e-tron will also feature Audi's E³ 1.2 software platform, which CARIAD develops, the Group's own software and technology company. The E³ 1.2 platform will enable various functions, including a new unified infotainment system and over-the-air updates for Audi and Porsche vehicles. The E³ 1.2 platform will also optimize the harmonization of the hardware with the vehicle software from CARIAD, facilitating the deployment of new services even after vehicle production has begun.
The Q6 e-tron will be one of the first models to benefit from CARIAD's long-term vision of creating a complete digital ecosystem for customers, offering them a wide range of software-based services throughout the product lifecycle. These services could include personalized features, data-based business models, new mobility services and automated driving (Level 4). CARIAD is also working on a standardized E³ software architecture that will form the basis of a new unified, scalable software platform and end-to-end electronic architecture for all Group brands by 2025.
The Q6 e-tron will be produced at Audi's headquarters in Ingolstadt, Germany, where electric car production will start for the first time. The plant will also have its own battery assembly facility, underlining Audi's commitment to electric mobility. The Audi Q6 e-tron will be one of more than ten fully electric models that Audi plans to launch by 2025, covering all major segments from compact cars to luxury sedans.
