Development of the production version of the Audi A6 e-tron concept that debuted last year is well underway, as proven by the spy pictures showing a camouflaged prototype with a production body. The fully electric sedan is expected to debut sometime in 2023 as a 2024 model, but it won’t be a direct replacement to the ICE-powered A6 which will continue to exist.
The early prototype is not fitted with the production-spec lighting units but reveals a few design changes on both ends. At the front, it features a split-headlight design, similar to what we’ve seen in Audi’s electric SUVs like the Q4 e-tron and Q5 e-tron. The main headlight units are significantly longer than the ones found on the A6 e-tron Avant Concept which likely prepared us for the production version. A similar treatment has been spotted in the latest prototypes of the upcoming Q6 e-tron, hinting at a new styling direction from Audi. Other changes include the smaller and fully covered singleframe grille, making way for a larger central intake and discreet inlets on the front bumper.
See: New Audi A6 e-tron Avant Concept Is The Wagon Of Our Electric Dreams
In the profile, the aerodynamic silhouette of the concept that debuted in April 2021 appears to be carried over in the production version, with a sloping roofline and a short rear deck. Cost-cutting measures (or more practical solutions, take your pick) have resulted in conventional door handles and mirrors, although the fancy mirror-replacing cameras – already found in the e-tron SUV – could be an optional feature.
The rear end is also redesigned with larger and less futuristic taillights, and the demise of the black design feature above them in favor of a more conventional tailgate. Also, the rear bumper has a wider and more discreet diffuser among the reflectors. Overall the model looks more like the Audi A5 and A7 Sportbacks than the regular A6, with some angles reminiscent of the Tesla Model S rival.
See Also: 2023 Audi A6 L Facelift Nabbed In Disguise, Plays Spot The Differences
The prototype A6 e-tron tester above with the concept model pictured below
The Audi A6 e-tron will be sharing the PPE architecture with the Audi Q6 e-tron and the Porsche Macan, including dual-motor powertrain options. In the concept, the electric motors produced a combined 470 hp (350 kW / 476 PS) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque, with the energy sourced in a floor-mounted 100 kWh battery. This sounds quite promising in terms of performance but we expect the production version to offer more choices in terms of power outputs and battery capacities. It is also rumored that Audi is planning a fully electric RS6 successor with the wagon bodystyle that was previewed by the Audi A6 e-tron Avant Concept.
Rivals of the Audi A6 e-tron include the Mercedes-Benz EQE, and the upcoming BMW i5. Audi has decided to sell the electric sedan alongside the regular Audi A6 for a few years, with the ICE-powered alternative set to receive a facelift this year – similar to what Mercedes-Benz is doing with the EQE and the E-Class.
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