Audi Introduces New Model Naming Strategy for Electric Cars
Audi is making significant changes to its model naming strategy as it expands its electric car lineup. The German automaker has decided to give combustion cars odd-numbered badges, while their electric vehicle (EV) counterparts will have even numbers. This new approach aims to create a clear and automatic differentiation between the two powertrain types.
One of the notable examples of this naming strategy is the upcoming A6 E-tron, which will be sold alongside an updated version of the current A6. The combustion-powered A6 will be rebranded as the A7. Similarly, the Q6 E-tron will serve as the electric alternative to the popular Q5, which will receive combustion drivetrains in its next generation.
Oliver Hoffmann, Audi’s technical boss, explained that the new naming strategy is intended to provide a clear structure for customers. By assigning even numbers to battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), Audi aims to emphasize its commitment to electric mobility. Hoffmann stated, “The A6 is a car which is in our core segment, and we will show that with the upcoming A6 E-tron. This is our main model in the C-segment, and the future is fully electric, so therefore we decided to give the even numbers to the BEV cars.”
This new system also allows Audi to streamline its branding and potentially drop the E-tron suffix used for electrified cars since 2009. The A6 E-tron and Q6 E-tron will be clearly identified as battery-electric vehicles without the need for additional badges or labels. Hoffmann added, “In the future, A6 will be clear as the battery-electric vehicle. It will be the A6 E-tron, like the Q6 E-tron, but if anyone says ‘this is the Q6’, you know it is the battery-electric vehicle. You don’t have to use the E-tron badge, or ICE badge.”
While the E-tron badge will still be present, Audi plans to use it more subtly, similar to how the TDI and TFSI badges are currently used to distinguish diesel and petrol models. This approach aligns with Audi’s goal of creating a clear naming structure that avoids cluttering the market with numerous badges indicating different powertrain types.
By implementing this new naming strategy, Audi aims to make it easier for customers to identify and understand its electric models. The company believes that a clear and intuitive naming structure will help streamline its product lineup and simplify the transition to electric mobility. With the increasing popularity of electric vehicles, Audi’s decision to prioritize EVs by assigning them even numbers is a strategic move that aligns with the industry’s shift towards sustainable transportation.
In conclusion, Audi’s new model naming strategy is a significant step towards establishing a clear distinction between combustion-powered cars and electric vehicles. By assigning even numbers to its electric models, Audi aims to create a structured and intuitive naming system that simplifies the identification of its EV lineup. This strategy also allows the company to potentially reduce its reliance on the E-tron badge, emphasizing its commitment to electric mobility. As Audi continues to expand its electric car offerings, this new naming approach will provide customers with a clear understanding of the powertrain type and facilitate the transition to sustainable transportation.