Audi Unveils Pioneering New A6 and S6 E-Tron Sportback Electric Vehicles

Audi has expanded its E-tron electric vehicle lineup by introducing new models that diverge from the traditional SUV design. As a precursor to the A6 range, Audi is introducing electric iterations of its mid-sized sedan, offering both Sportback and Avant station wagon styles, along with efficiency-driven S6 variants.

Audi debuted the A6 E-tron concept at Auto Shanghai in 2021, with production nearing completion based on available supply chain information. The entrance, unaltered in its design, boasts slim headlights equipped with advanced adaptive matrix LED technology – though this feature is restricted to international markets due to regulatory requirements – flanked by a unique front grille featuring a distinctive fish-scale pattern and encased within a darkened mask-like surround. The futuristic vehicle features advanced digital OLED panels in its tail lamps, capable of transforming into a high-tech security communication display.

The United States is expected to receive three distinct versions of the latest Audi model: the A6 RWD Sportback, A6 quattro AWD Sportback, and the high-performance S6 Sportback. Although they won’t receive the advanced digital side-view mirrors that contribute to the car’s low drag coefficient of 0.21, US regulations necessitate traditional mirrors with high precision for safety reasons. According to Audi, the range of their car on a single charge spans over 700 kilometers, equivalent to approximately 435 miles; however, the US Environmental Protection Agency’s estimated range is likely to be significantly lower.

The S6 E-tron’s quickest model accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds when using launch control, a feat not far removed from Tesla’s impressive 2.9-second sprint to the same speed. The S6 reaches its peak performance at 543 horsepower and achieves a top speed of 149 mph.

The interior of the car offers exceptional comfort, featuring three displays that form a “digital stage,” in addition to a 10.9-inch front passenger screen with a privacy feature. Additionally, Audi offers a heads-up display for the driver, providing an even more comprehensive view of the road ahead.

The Audi A6 E-tron is built upon Volkswagen’s cutting-edge 800-volt Premium Platform Electrical (PPE), a modular architecture that will underpin not only this electric luxury sedan but also the forthcoming Audi Q6 E-tron and Porsche Macan EV models, allowing for economies of scale and future-proofing. All trims of the Audi A6 E-tron feature 100kWh battery packs, with 94.4kWh usable capacity, and support DC fast charging at up to 270kW, enabling a 10-80% recharge in just 21 minutes, as expected from Audi.

The Audi A6 E-Tron is set to launch in Europe later this September, with a subsequent arrival planned for the United States to ensure compliance with local regulations.