New Audi A6 E-Tron with Prices Starting at £69,900

In a bold move, Audi has decided to make the A6 a fully electric vehicle (EV), retiring the petrol and diesel versions of the A6. These traditional variants will be rebranded under the A7 name for the next generation, expected to launch next year. This marks a significant step in Audi’s shift towards electric mobility, positioning the A6 E-Tron as a trailblazer in the executive EV segment.

Sleek Design with Production-Ready Enhancements

The new Audi A6 E-Tron closely mirrors the concept first revealed three years ago, maintaining its sleek and muscular design. While there have been minor adjustments for production, including larger air intakes, full-size headlights, and additional ADAS sensors, the A6 retains its modern and elegant proportions.

Premium Platform Electric (PPE) Architecture

The A6 E-Tron is built on Audi’s advanced Premium Platform Electric (PPE), the same architecture used for the Q6 E-Tron. This platform supports 800V electrics, enabling faster charging and accommodating various battery sizes and powertrains.

Impressive Range and Performance

Audi has equipped the A6 E-Tron with a new 94.9kWh battery, providing the Sportback version with a remarkable 463-mile range, surpassing competitors like the BMW i5 (356 miles) and Mercedes EQE (429 miles). The Avant estate version offers a slightly lower range of 437 miles, due to its less aerodynamic shape.

Battery and Charging Capabilities

The A6 E-Tron features an innovative lithium-ion battery with nickel-manganese-cobalt chemistry, delivering a 30% improvement in energy density compared to older models like the Q8 E-Tron. Audi will also introduce a smaller 79kWh battery shortly after the launch, catering to drivers seeking different range options.

When it comes to charging, the A6 E-Tron supports 11kW AC charging through two ports located on either side of the car. The driver’s side port can handle up to 270kW of DC fast charging, enabling quick top-ups. An upgrade to 22kW AC charging is also expected later in the car’s life cycle.

Powertrain Options: Performance and S6 Models

Two powertrain options will be available at launch:

Performance model: Powered by a rear-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor, it delivers 362bhp, allowing the A6 to sprint from 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds.

S6 model: Priced from £97,500, the S6 adds an asynchronous motor on the front axle, giving it four-wheel drive and a total output of 496bhp. In boost mode, power is temporarily increased to 543bhp, shaving the 0-62mph time down to 3.9 seconds.

The top speed is limited to 130mph for the Performance model and 149mph for the S6. The S6 offers a range of 406 miles for the saloon and 388 miles for the estate.

RS6 E-Tron Coming Soon

Audi has also confirmed that the RS6 will be reimagined as a pure electric vehicle, offering even higher performance than the current 621bhp V8 model. This high-performance version will further expand Audi’s electric portfolio, appealing to performance enthusiasts.

Enhanced Driving Comfort and Advanced Features

The new A6 E-Tron promises exceptional comfort, with adaptive air suspension available on the S6 model for a smoother ride. High-end models can adjust their ride height on the go to optimize aerodynamics and improve range. When parked, the suspension lifts to make entry easier.

Inside, the cabin mirrors the design of the new Audi A5 and Q6 E-Tron, featuring a large, high-resolution OLED screen as the central focal point. This display is divided into an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen. For added convenience, a 10.9-inch passenger display is available as an option.

UK Deliveries Begin February 2024

The first deliveries of the Audi A6 E-Tron in the UK are expected to commence in February 2024, marking the arrival of Audi’s latest innovation in the luxury electric car market.

NEW Audi A6 e-tron revealed! – FULL details on radical new EV | What Car?