Audi is planning to launch an affordable electric vehicle by 2026, posing a potential threat to BMW's market share.
In a significant move towards expanding its zero-emission offerings, Audi has announced plans to introduce a new entry-level electric vehicle (EV). The upcoming model, tentatively known as the Audi Q6 e-tron, is scheduled to go on sale as early as next year, with a production version set for 2027.
Last year, Audi sold 1.67 million cars compared to BMW's 2.2 million units worldwide. To close the gap, Audi is introducing a new design language with the Concept C, a fully electric vehicle. The new entry-level EV will be a direct rival to the BMW iX1, according to reports.
The base version of the new EV in Germany will cost less than €46,150, making it an affordable option for many. It will be manufactured at Audi's home in Ingolstadt, where the production of the A1 and Q2 is set to end in 2026. The new EV is expected to indirectly replace these two combustion-engine models.
The BMW iX1 shares its platform with gasoline, diesel, and plug-in hybrid X1 models, while the Audi EV will use a dedicated EV platform (MEB). The iX1 is rumoured to deliver at least 373 miles (600 kilometers) of WLTP range from new battery tech with round cells.
CEO Gernot Döllner described the new EV as a "wonderful, unique, independent concept." He also hinted that the new model could revive the "A2" nameplate previously used for a quirky aluminum-bodied hatchback. However, the exact name of the model beyond the Audi Q6 e-tron is yet to be confirmed.
The body style of the new Audi EV is not yet confirmed, but reports suggest it will be positioned somewhere between a hatchback and an SUV. An equivalent sedan, the i2 Gran Coupe, codenamed "NB8," may follow the same year as the i1.
Audi aims for two million annual sales in the long term, and wider availability of a more affordable EV would improve its chances. The new EV is being compared to the 1 Series-rivaling A3.
Meanwhile, BMW plans to go a size below the iX1 later this decade with the i1, expected in 2028. However, the details about this model are still under wraps. The i1 is internally known as "NB0" and is believed to be a rear-wheel-drive hatchback featuring Neue Klasse know-how.
As for the pricing in the United States, it is yet to be confirmed. Regarding a relationship with the Skoda Elroq, there is no direct evidence or mention of a connection or shared platform between Audi's new lighter electric model and the Skoda Elroq in the provided information.
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