The story of the Audi A6 begins in 1994, when the model underwent a name change from Audi 100 to Audi A6. Over the years, there have been six generations, with the latest being a fully electric model. Now named the Audi A6 e-tron, it marks the start of a new electric era at Audi. The A6 is set to compete against the Mercedes-Benz EQE, BMW i5, and NIO ET7.
This comes with the launch of an entirely new series of electric vehicles. Built on the advanced PPE platform, the Audi A6 e-tron enters the upper segment of mid-size electric cars, focusing on long range, high efficiency, and rapid charging.
Various Models and the New S6
Four different versions will be introduced at launch. The A6 e-tron includes both a station wagon, known as Avant, and a Sportback sedan.
For those seeking higher performance, Audi will also offer S6 e-tron versions of both models.
Efficiency at its Best
Efficiency is a key feature throughout the design. The Sportback version boasts the lowest drag coefficient in the entire Volkswagen Group, with a Cd value of 0.21.
The Avant version has a Cd value of 0.24. This low drag is achieved through smooth design lines and electronic air intakes that can direct cooling air to the battery or brakes as needed. The undercarriage is also designed with fins to optimize airflow under the vehicle.
At launch, the A6 e-tron comes with a 100 kWh battery. This gives the A6 Sportback e-tron performance a range of over 750 kilometers (WLTP), while the Avant version has a range of 720 kilometers. A 270 kW motor drives the rear wheels, enabling the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h.
For those seeking even more performance, the S6 Sportback e-tron and S6 Avant e-tron will be available. These models feature all-wheel drive and a total power output of 370 kW, which can be increased to 405 kW in boost mode. The S6 models can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, with a top speed of 240 km/h and a range of 670 and 640 kilometers (WLTP) respectively.
The PPE platform, also used in the Q6 e-tron, is based on an 800-volt architecture and can fast charge at up to 270 kW. This allows the battery to be charged from 10 to 80 percent in 21 minutes, and in just ten minutes, you can gain 310 kilometers of range.
Spacious Interior
The Audi A6 e-tron Avant measures 4.93 meters in length, with a wheelbase of 2.95 meters, a height of 1.57 meters, and a width of 1.92 meters. The trunk has a capacity of 502 liters, which can be expanded to 1,422 liters with the seats folded down. The Sportback version offers the same trunk volume.
At the front, there is a “frunk” with a capacity of 27 liters, which can be opened with a hand gesture without touching the hood. A tow hitch is also available, with a towing capacity of up to 2.1 tons.
The interior follows Audi’s new design language, introduced earlier with the Q6 e-tron and also in the new Audi A5. It focuses on driver comfort and is more user-friendly than ever before.
Audi offers a panoramic display with an 11.9” driver’s screen and a 14.5” infotainment screen. As an option, a 10.9” screen can be added on the passenger side. The infotainment system uses Android Automotive OS and includes an app store with access to various apps in categories such as music, video, games, and productivity.
An improved route planner makes the A6 e-tron easier to use on long trips with charging stops, and the system supports Plug & Charge to simplify the charging process.
Voice control has been significantly improved compared to previous Audi models and now includes Audi Assistant, which can control many of the car’s functions. The Bang & Olufsen sound system with 20 speakers, four of which are integrated into the front seat headrests, provides the driver with personalized surround sound and the ability to receive personal navigation messages and conduct one-on-one phone calls.
The new Audi A6 e-tron can be ordered starting in September, with a new fully electric RS6 model to follow later.
