Audi A6 e-tron

PPE will be used following Q6

Audi Japan unveiled the new generation fully electric model, the A6 e-tron, for the first time in Japan, and began selling it at authorized Audi dealerships nationwide on the same day. As the first fully electric A6 model, it symbolizes Audi’s EV strategy in Japan as well. In recent years, Audi has been promoting its electrification plan, which positioned odd-numbered models as internal combustion engine vehicles (ICE) and even-numbered models as fully electric vehicles (BEV), but this was reversed earlier this year. In Europe, an MHEV version of the A6, which is equipped with an internal combustion engine, is already in the lineup.

Following on from the Q6 e-tron, which was just introduced in Japan in April, the A6 adopts the PPE (Premium Platform Electric) EV-specific architecture jointly developed with Porsche. Two body styles are available: the basic RWD five-door hatchback A6 Sportback e-tron (maximum output 280kW (381PS, with launch control), maximum torque 565Nm), and the RWD station wagon A6 Avant e-tron. Each body style will also be available with a high-performance AWD model, the S6 e-tron (maximum output 405kW (551PS, with launch control), maximum torque 580Nm), for a total of four grades.

Maximum range of 846km

Of particular note is the range, which can be achieved by selecting the Range Plus package (air suspension, virtual exterior mirrors, etc.) for the most standard model, the A6 Sportback e-tron Performance, and reaching a maximum of 846 km (WLTP). This is due in part to the 100 kWh lithium-ion battery installed in all models, but also to the excellent power consumption rate of 127 Wh/km (7.8 km/kWh) for a mid-size saloon with a length of 5 m. Incidentally, the most basic model in the lineup, the A6 Sportback e-tron Performance, has a standard range of 769 km (WLTP), while the Avant achieves 734 km. Meanwhile, the S6 e-tron, equipped with a quattro system that drives all four wheels with two motors at the front and rear, has a range of 726 km for the Sportback and 706 km for the Avant.

It supports fast charging of up to 135kW. Just 10 minutes of charging can provide a driving range of up to 310km, and charging from 10 to 80% can be completed in about 35 minutes. It also has a powerful regenerative braking function of up to 220kW, which covers approximately 95% of braking.

Thoroughly refined aerodynamics

The exterior design of the new A6 e-tron combines elegance and sportiness while thoroughly refining aerodynamics, as can be seen from the specs of a Cd value of 0.21 (Avant = 0.24). Aerodynamic performance of course contributes to the cruising range. The body size of the Sportback is 4930mm in length, 1925mm in width, 1470mm in height (air suspension specification, Avant = 1510mm), and a wheelbase of 2950mm.

The wide and smooth front face features a single-frame grille that symbolizes the identity of the e-tron family. The daytime running lights and wide grille assert its advanced nature. The Avant’s steeply sloping D-pillars and flat roofline give it a sporty appearance despite being a wagon. On the other hand, the Avant’s luggage capacity is 502-1422L (Sportback: 502-1330L) and it is also equipped with a 27L frunk (front trunk), so it is not neglecting practicality.

The interior features an “MMI Panoramic Display” that combines an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit with a 14.5-inch MMI touch display. Other options include an AR head-up display that minimizes eye movement and a 10.9-inch passenger display in front of the passenger seat.

As BEV technology continues to evolve, range is one key indicator. The A6 e-tron, with its outstanding range figures, may be setting a new standard for electric grand tourers as a luxury BEV in the premium E segment.