At last, the production model of Audi’s much-anticipated A6 e-tron electric sedan, and its Avant estate variant, have been unveiled. Originally previewed in 2022 through the A6 e-tron concept, the release of the new A6 had been temporarily set back due to complexities in developing the software for the underpinning PPE (Premium Platform Electric) structure. These same complications also delayed the launch of the Audi Q6 e-tron and Porsche Macan Electric. Ideally, the A6 e-tron should have been available for purchase by late 2023.
The question remains: was the delay worth it? The A6 e-tron will enter the market — with orders beginning in Ireland in September, albeit first deliveries potentially taking more time — boasting a maximum distance of 756km for the top-end battery version which outpaces the longest-range Q6 SUV by more than 120km, highlighting the limitations of larger, higher vehicles in the era of electric transport.
Far from being tall and cumbersome, the A6 e-tron prides itself on having an extremely aerodynamic body, sporting a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.21. In this regard, it follows the revered footsteps of the 1980s Audi 100, a vehicle whose streamlined shape and flush-fit side glass broadened the understanding of aerodynamic design among the general driving population.
The A6 e-tron enhances its aerodynamics with an expertly sculpted underbody, aerodynamic wheel styles, as well as an adjustable flap in the grille which permits the influx of cool air as required and can redirect this inflow onwards around the bodywork. It will also offer the ability to swap the standard side mirrors for rear-view cameras housed in slim, aerodynamic pods.
Similar to the Q6 e-tron SUV, the A6 e-tron’s LED headlights and brake lights can also be manipulated to display different patterns. However, beyond this novelty, Audi utilises this lighting system for heightened safety measures. Many Audi models already incorporate OLED rear lights that have the capacity to increase in brightness and intensity as a warning system for tailgating traffic. Additionally, the A6 e-tron’s brake lights can project specific alerts to help notify trailing vehicles about impending mishaps or obstructions on the road ahead.
On a technical note, the A6 e-tron saloon, despite its sleek and convenient tailgate, stands on the PPE platform. Prospective buyers will have the option to choose from several battery sizes – the largest variant being a 94.9kWh utilizable battery pack. This enables the saloon to achieve a significant 746km per charge, while the less aerodynamic Avant estate model maxes out at 720km for a single charge. The saloon versions that utilise dual-motor four-wheel drive technology can generate power up to 367hp (equivalent to 270kW), rendering the vehicle capable of a swift 5.4sec 0-100km/h acceleration time.
For those seeking more power, there will be a S6 quattro version. Its standout feature is a ‘Launch Control’ mode that provides an incredible 550hp (equalling 405kW), thus reaching 100km/h in a blazing 3.9 seconds. However, this incredible power does indeed compromise range as it reduces down to 675km.
Lastly, Audi also plans to launch two-wheel-drive A6 e-tron versions. These editions will be powered by a singular electric motor located at the rear, which positions these models, along with the current Q6, as Audi’s inaugural mainstream rear-drive versions since the 1970s. The company’s rear-drive R8 supercar is considered as an outlier rather than a mainstream model.
The A6 e-tron, a capacious electric vehicle from Audi, offers an impressive 800-volt electrical system that is capable of charging at a substantial 270kW, providing it can connect to a high-powered DC charging point. This suggests that theoretically, users could accrue an additional range of up to 310km in a ten-minute charging window. When using a charger of lesser power, the e-tron has the functionality to split the battery into two portions and charge both simultaneously at rates that reach 135kW. As standard, the vehicle will charge at 11kW using AC power, though a 22kW AC charging method will be introduced in the future.
Featuring a similar interior layout to the Q6, just positioned lower, the cabin of the A6 e-tron boasts a pair of grand, curved screens acting as the instrument and infotainment display, with the option of an additional third screen for the passenger. Other optional features include an air-suspension that automatically reduces the vehicle’s height by 20mm to enhance aerodynamics during lengthy motorway trips, an advanced head-up display, and an electronic glass roof with adjustable brightness.
The vehicle will enter the European market with a base price of €75,600, indicating an approximate price of €80,000 for the Irish market, comparable to competitor models such as BMW’s i5 and Mercedes-Benz’s EQE, but with a greater range. According to Audi’s new model naming scheme, which pairs even numbers with electric models (A6, Q6, Q8, the forthcoming A4), the A6 e-tron is a part of a larger fleet. This contrasts with the models that continue to use petrol, diesel and hybrid power, which are tagged with odd numbers. The introduction of the new A5 saloon and Avant estate signifies the initial step in this strategy, replacing the previous A4 model.
Speaking about the latest Audi A6 e-tron series, the Brand Director of Audi Ireland, Damien O’Sullivan expressed his excitement for the arrival of the second model series from the PPE Platform on Irish highways and Audi showrooms. Continuing to explore the limits of technology and styling, Audi presents a car with phenomenal aerodynamics and revolutionary power capabilities. With a substantial 700km range and rapid charging times, this model offers another alternative for Irish buyers looking to transition to electric vehicles or seeking to enhance their existing electric driving experience.