Audi’s new Q6 E-tron SUV is set to revolutionize the brand’s interior designs with its ‘human-centric’ approach. The electric SUV, which will compete with the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, was unveiled at the 2023 Munich motor show and will be available for sale in February. This highly anticipated vehicle is the first to ride on Audi’s new PPE EV platform, allowing for a complete redesign of the digital interfaces.
The interior of the Q6 E-tron has been meticulously designed to meet the real-world needs of both the driver and passengers. Audi’s head of design, Marc Lichte, explains that by considering the interior as the center of customers’ lives and experiences, they have been able to create a vehicle that breaks away from the status quo and prioritizes functionality and user-friendliness.
One of the standout features of the Q6 E-tron is its spaciousness. With 526 liters of boot space (1529 liters with the rear seats folded down) and a 64-liter frunk for charging cables and small luggage, there is plenty of room for all your belongings. Additionally, the lack of a transmission tunnel allows for extra legroom and a comfortable middle seat.
The cockpit of the Q6 E-tron is dominated by digital displays. Each vehicle comes equipped with a curved, panoramic 14.5-inch display and an 11.9-inch digital cockpit. Front passengers also have their own screen, a 10.9-inch display integrated into the dashboard, which can be used for navigation and music selection. The softwrap materials used throughout the cockpit and center console are made from sustainable materials, further emphasizing Audi’s commitment to eco-friendly design.
The driver display and central infotainment screen are housed in a curved wraparound panel on top of the dashboard. An optional augmented reality head-up display enhances the driving experience, while a separate infotainment screen for the passenger can be shielded from the driver’s view to minimize distractions. The cabin is also adorned with an LED strip that serves multiple functions, including welcoming occupants, indicating when the indicators are on, and displaying the state of charge when the car is plugged in.
Audi has also introduced a new digital assistant in the Q6 E-tron, represented by an avatar on the digital display. This assistant can locate nearby chargers and adjust certain functions when summoned by the command “Hey Audi.” Over time, the assistant can learn from its users to offer personalized support, such as automatically setting the climate control.
Underneath its sleek exterior, the Q6 E-tron is powered by Audi’s new Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, which was co-developed with Porsche. This platform allows for a range of up to 372 miles (600km) and supports charging rates of up to 270kW thanks to its 800V technology. While full performance figures have yet to be released, the Audi A6 E-tron concept, which shares the same platform, boasts an impressive 463bhp and 590lb ft of torque.
The Q6 E-tron is just one of over 20 new models that Audi plans to launch by 2025. It will be followed by a coupé-SUV version known as the Sportback. Positioned between the Audi Q4 E-tron and the Q8 E-tron, the Q6 E-tron is expected to start around £60,000 and will be built at Audi’s historic Ingolstadt factory.
With its innovative interior design, impressive range, and cutting-edge technology, the Audi Q6 E-tron is set to make a significant impact in the premium electric car market. Audi’s commitment to creating a human-centric driving experience is evident in every aspect of this groundbreaking vehicle. Whether you’re a driver or a passenger, the Q6 E-tron offers a comfortable, intuitive, and sustainable journey into the future of electric mobility.