Audi debuts A6 e-tron concept at Shanghai Auto Show
Audi has released a series of concept images for a new A6 e-tron model which boasts nearly 435 miles of range and a 0-62mph capability of less than four seconds.
The fully electric Sportback was debuted at the Shanghai Auto Show 2021 as Audi steps up the pace on its commitment of producing 20 pure-electric models by 2025.
It will complete with a 100kWh battery which Audi says will be able to charge from 5 to 80% in less than 25 minutes. According to the manufacturer, this will be made possible through a “completely new technology architecture” as well as its Premium Platform Electric (PPE) that is being developed under its leadership with Porsche AG.
The models will begin production in 2023, but while the images released are only conceptual, Audi has confirmed they are a close representation on what the finished product will look like.
As well as advanced models being able to achieve 0-62mph in less than four seconds, and with entry models also able to reach the same speed in under seven seconds, the A6 e-tron concept’s two electric motors are also capable of delivering a total output of 350 kW and a torque of 800 Newton meters.
While Audi has designed this to be everything like a sports car, it claims its extensive range and fast-charging capabilities makes it suitable as an everyday-electric vehicle.
With new technology developed by the PPE platform, just 10 minutes are enough to charge the battery to a level sufficient to power the car more than 186 miles. Audi also claims that in less than 25 minutes, you can charge the A6 e-tron concept’s 100 kWh battery from 5 to 80%.
First look
The A6 e-tron sits at just over 16 feet long, making it the same size as the current A6/A7 models, but Audi insists this is where the similarities stop.
In order to make it easily distinguishable from its petrol and diesel counterparts, the A6 e-tron is fitted with a large enclosed singleframe grille and flat headlight bezels that extend into the sides of the front end.
It claims this new model was practically “conceived in a wind-tunnel” and that can be seen with its sleek, ultra-aerodynamic aesthetic. In fact, aerodynamics are at the heart of this concept, as by achieving minimum drag this translates into lower energy consumption and therefore extended range.
Large 22-inch wheels and short overhangs, a flat cabin, and a wide coupe roof arch give help it achieve the look and feel of a sports car that Audi has specifically targeted.
One of the key engineering features of this vehicle and as a result of Audi’s PPE platform is is a battery module between the axles that holds around 100 kWh of energy in the A6 e-tron, giving the vehicle a relatively flat surface and allowing for high ground clearance with a low ride height.
The development of the PPE platform means Audi can expand the range of electric vehicles in its portfolio, beyond SUV’s and into Sportback models such as the A6 e-tron concept. This is summarised by Audi, which said in a statement: “In a nutshell, the PPE will ensure that the company’s rapid transformation toward electric mobility via volume and variety will become yet another Audi success story.”
