Audi is set to unveil the highly anticipated sixth-generation A6 saloon and estate, marking a significant shift to electric power for one of their most iconic models. The A6 E-tron, which has already been showcased in concept form, is expected to closely resemble the striking show cars. This transition to electric power comes 30 years after the launch of the original A6, with its predecessor, the 100, dating all the way back to 1968.
The A6 E-tron will be Audi’s fifth pure-electric model, followed closely by electric successors to the A4, A8, and A3. The current combustion-engined A6 will undergo significant updates and will be rebranded as the A7 in the near future, resulting in the retirement of the luxury four-door coupe that currently bears that name.
Underneath its sleek exterior, the A6 E-tron will ride on the new Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture developed jointly by Audi and Porsche. This architecture is already being used for the Q6 E-tron and its Porsche Macan Electric counterpart. While full drivetrain details have not been released, it is expected that the specifications will align with those of the Q6 E-tron, which offers 396bhp and a 100kWh battery in its ’55’ trim. Additionally, the A6 E-tron will feature an 800V charging architecture, enabling faster charging times and reduced weight.
The A6 E-tron is also expected to offer a range of performance options, including dual-motor setups for the S6 and RS6 variants, as well as rear-driven models focused on efficiency. Acceleration times from 0-62mph will range from “well under” 4 seconds to 7 seconds. The Q6, which shares a similar battery pack with the A6, boasts a range of 435 miles and can gain 186 miles of range from just a 10-minute top-up. With its lower and sleeker body, the A6 is expected to surpass this headline range figure.
The A6 Avant E-tron, which has been spotted testing on German roads, features slim daytime running lights, a large front grille, cameras replacing rear-view mirrors, and redesigned rear lights with a light bar. The door handles are recessed into the bodywork, and the car rides on aerodynamically optimized alloy wheels. Despite its electric powertrain, the A6 Avant E-tron is said to offer comparable interior dimensions and load capacity to its combustion-engined predecessor.
One of the key benefits of the EV platform is the longer wheelbase, which allows for more legroom in both the front and rear seats. Audi’s design boss, Marc Lichte, stated that the A6 E-tron will have a sleeker and simpler design compared to its predecessor. This focus on sleekness and simplicity will also carry over to the upcoming A8 E-tron, which is expected to be based on the Grandsphere concept unveiled in 2021. Lichte also hinted at the possibility of an Audi Activesphere concept becoming an ‘Allroad 2.0’ version of the next Audi A7 in 2027.
Overall, Audi’s move towards electrification with the A6 E-tron represents a significant milestone for the brand, as they continue to expand their lineup of pure-electric models. With sleek design, advanced technology, and impressive performance, the A6 E-tron is poised to make a major impact in the electric vehicle market.
