The Audi A6 Avant E-tron, the long-awaited electric version of the Audi A6 E-Tron, is set to be revealed this year, promising up to 700 km of range, ultra-fast charging and a stylish design. which risks capsizing the hearts of fans.
The transition to electric could take on a new dimension with the imminent arrival of the Audi A6 Avant E-tron. This model, which finalizes its latest developments and begins to run almost without camouflage, is preparing to compete with the future BMW i5 Touring.
A design very close to the concept
The prototype of the new A6 Avant E-tron, seen on German roads, reveals a design language very inspired by the A6 Avant E-tron Concept unveiled in 2022. The vehicle sports fine daytime running lights, a large front grille, cameras replacing traditional mirrors and redesigned taillights with a light bar still hidden. Door handles integrated into the body and new, aerodynamically optimized rims complete the silhouette. Obviously, we will have to wait for the real announcement to judge the success or not of its aesthetics, but in any case, it will be one of the first models from the manufacturer to present the new stylistic language of the brand and will be among the first premium station wagons electric on the market.
Audi designer Phillipp Römers said: “We have a long tradition of very sporty and very emotional breaks. It’s a tradition that is really in our roots and that we want to continue, so for us as designers it’s always fantastic to work on this type of bodywork, because it’s the perfect combination between utility and expressive design “.
A PPE platform that opens up the field of possibilities
Although Audi has not yet disclosed powertrain details, the A6 Avant E-tron is expected to be based on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE), developed in partnership with Porsche. This platform will also be used for the new Porsche Macan EV and the Audi Q6 E-tron. The A6’s specifications are expected to be similar to the PPE-based Q6 E-tron, offering a 100 kWh battery to power a 396 hp motor, (in the 55 version), with an 800 V charging architecture for faster charging.
The range will feature performance-oriented dual-motor configurations and autonomy-oriented rear-wheel drive variants, with 0-100km/h times below 4 seconds. An electric successor to the Audi RS6 Avant could offer more than 600 hp, as suggested by the technically similar Porsche Macan EV.
Above all, the PPE platform makes it possible to integrate a battery of around 100 kWh, offering a claimed range of 700 km. It can charge at a rate of 270 kW, gaining 300 km of range in just 10 minutes of charging.
Space on board
The Audi A6 Avant E-tron will measure, according to our information, 4.96 m long, 1.96 m wide and 1.44 m high, which gives approximately the same dimensions as its thermal predecessor.
Audi design chief Marc Lichte said the A6 E-tron “will be launched three years after theE-tron GT and its design will be cleaner, simpler and very close to the concept car”.
In addition, because the battery is placed flat and arranged through the chassis, the A6 Avant E-tron is expected to offer interior dimensions and cargo capacity largely comparable to the current A6, with even, according to the company’s claims, product marketing manager, Niko Martens: “more room to maneuver and flexibility, not only in the trunk but also at the front for a possible frunk”. Also, the size of the wheelbase suggests more legroom, especially in the rear.
The start of an all-electric range?
Audi has confirmed that the PPE platform will also be used in the segments immediately below and above the A6, meaning that the Audi A4 and Audi A8 can also be based on this platform. Audi plans to launch the new A8, also this year, which will be very close to the Grandsphere concept of 2021. Marc Lichte also suggested that the new Audi Activesphere concept could become an Allroad 2.0 version of the next Audi A7 in 2027.
Finally, note that the flexibility of the PPE platform could allow the manufacturer to apply it to a whole range of vehicles that goes beyond the SUV.
“Electric vehicles will now also be attractive to customers who prefer automotive concepts beyond the SUV segment” adds Niko Martens. However, no word yet on the electric successors to the Audi TT and Audi R8.
Source : Coach
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