Audi A6 E-Tron: The Radical Electric Car with a 463-Mile Range
Introduction
The new Audi A6 is now available for order, with prices starting at £69,900 for the saloon version and £71,700 for the estate. This executive car is exclusively electric, offering competition to the BMW i5 and Mercedes EQE with its impressive range of up to 543bhp and 463 miles.
Transition to Electric Power
Audi has made the bold move to transition one of its most important models, the A6, to solely electric power. This sets it apart from its primary rivals, the combustion-engined E-Class and 5 Series. As a result, the outgoing petrol and diesel A6 will be renamed the A7 for its next generation, which will be released next year.
Design and Features
The new A6 E-Tron retains the sleek and muscular proportions of the concept car that was unveiled three years ago. The front end has been slightly restyled with larger air intakes, full-size headlights, and ADAS sensors. The saloon version follows the Q6 E-Tron onto the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, which offers 800V electrics and a range of battery packs and powertrains.
Impressive Range
The range-topping Sportback model boasts an official range of over 463 miles, surpassing the figures of its competitors, the i5 (356 miles) and EQE (429 miles). The estate version, known as the A6 E-Tron Avant, has a claimed range of 437 miles due to its less aerodynamic shape.
Efficient Battery Technology
The A6 E-Tron is equipped with a new and more efficient 94.9kWh battery, specifically designed for the PPE platform. This battery consists of 12 modules and 180 cells. Audi also plans to introduce a 10-module 79kWh battery shortly after the A6’s launch. Both batteries utilize a new lithium-ion nickel-manganese-cobalt makeup, resulting in a 30% improvement in cell density compared to previous models.
Charging Capabilities
The A6 can be charged at 11kW on a domestic AC supply through its charging ports located on the rear haunches. The driver’s side port can also handle DC charging at rates of up to 270kW. Audi has plans to upgrade the AC charging to 22kW later in the car’s life cycle.
Powertrain Options
The A6 E-Tron offers two powertrain options. The Performance model features a rear-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor with 362bhp, achieving a 0-62mph time of 5.4 seconds. The S6 model, priced from £97,500, adds an asynchronous motor on the front axle, providing four-wheel drive and a combined output of 496bhp. With the launch control function, the S6 can temporarily boost its power to 543bhp, reducing its 0-62mph time to 3.9 seconds.
Comfort and Technology
The new A6 is designed for “first-class” comfort, with the Performance model equipped with traditional steel springs and the S6 featuring adaptive air suspension. Top-spec models adjust their ride height to enhance aerodynamic performance and range. Inside, the A6 features a large OLED screen divided into an 11.9in instrument panel and a 14.5in infotainment touchscreen. An optional 10.9in passenger display is also available.
Conclusion
The Audi A6 E-Tron offers a radical electric car option in the executive car segment. With its impressive range, efficient battery technology, and luxurious features, it is set to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle market. UK deliveries are scheduled to begin in February.
