Audi unveils its new A6 e-tron range, marking the switch to electric power for its flagship model. Available as a Sportback sedan and Avant station wagon, this new generation promises record range and performance worthy of the brand’s reputation.
An electric revolution for the A6
German automaker Audi takes a major step forward in its transition to electromobility with the launch of the A6 e-tron. This development is part of the brand’s global strategy to electrify its peer models. The A6, spearheading this new era, has been completely reinvented, while retaining the DNA that has made it such a success.
Based on the PPE (Premium Platform Electric) platform, the new A6 e-tron boasts a renewed design, cutting-edge technology and a range that exceeds 700 kilometers in the WLTP cycle. This technical feat positions the model as a serious contender in the premium electric sedan segment.
A progressive, aerodynamic design
L’A6 e-tron retains the elegant proportions of its predecessor while adopting a resolutely forward-looking styling language. With dimensions of 4,928 mm long, 1,923 mm wide and 1,487 mm high, the vehicle makes its presence felt on the road.
The emphasis on aerodynamics is obvious, with a remarkable drag coefficient of 0.21 Cx for the Sportback version and 0.24 Cx for the Avant. This performance is achieved thanks to a flattened front grille, an optimized lower air intake and the option of camera mirrors.
The lighting signature, a key element of Audi design, receives particular attention. At the front, matrix LED headlamps incorporate tapering daytime running lights, while at the rear, an imposing OLED strip allows for unprecedented lighting customization. For the first time in the brand’s history, the Audi logo is also illuminated.
A high-tech, refined interior
The interior of theA6 e-tron is distinguished by its high level of digitalization. The driver’s station is based around a curved interface featuring an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch multimedia screen. As an option, an additional 10.9-inch screen can be installed on the passenger side, capable of streaming content visible only to the occupant.
The interior ambience is refined, with a selection of noble materials and top-of-the-range finishes. The sports steering wheel incorporates controls grouped into touch-sensitive panels, while the streamlined center console relegates the gear selector to a simple switch. An innovative panoramic roof with variable opacity completes the luxurious atmosphere.
High-performance electric powertrains
The PPE platform enables the integration of an 800 V electric architecture, allowing ultra-fast recharging of up to 270 kW. This technology is crucial for fully exploiting the 100 kWh battery (94.9 kWh useful) fitted to the A6 e-tron.
At launch, two engines will be offered:
- L’Audi A6 e-tron performance 362 hp (270 kW) rear-wheel drive
- L’Audi S6 e-tron 496 hp (405 kW) with quattro all-wheel drive
Both versions boast an impressive range of up to 720 km in the WLTP cycle.
Thereafter, the range will be extended by entry-level versions developing 281 hp (210 kW) with rear-wheel drive and 422 hp (315 kW) with all-wheel drive. All variants will benefit from the same battery pack, optimized for recharging on the 400 V grid and featuring predictive temperature management.
Optimized roadholding
To deliver a driving experience worthy of Audi’s reputation, the A6 e-tron can be equipped with adaptive suspension as standard, or with air suspension as an option. The latter allows the ride height and damping firmness to be adjusted according to the driving modes selected.
Pricing and availability
Reservations for theA6 e-tron and the S6 e-tron will open in September 2024, with deliveries scheduled for late 2024 or early 2025. The price scale is as follows:
- A6 e-tron Sportback Performance: from €81,000
- A6 e-tron Avant Performance: from €83,500
- S6 e-tron Sportback: from €104,500
- S6 e-tron Avant: from €107,000
RS6 e-tron in the works
High-performance enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the RS6 e-tron. Although official information is still scarce, spy photos suggest a launch in 2025. This sporty variant could develop power in excess of 700 hp, promising electrifying sensations.
L’Audi A6 e-tron marks a major turning point in the history of the brand with the rings. By combining the characteristic elegance of the A6 with the advantages of electric propulsion, Audi is demonstrating its ability to innovate while preserving the essence of its iconic models. This new range promises to be a formidable contender in the premium electric sedan market, combining record range, high performance and cutting-edge technology.
