The Audi A2 is back, not in the form of a production vehicle, but as a one-off EV conversion from the automaker’s apprentice programme. The A2 e-tron reimagines the brand’s innovative modern classic with new styling cues and a fully electric powertrain, in time for the 25th anniversary of the original.
The model was presented on Audi AG’s social media channels, without any information on the EV underpinnings. The proportions and greenhouse are carried over from the original A2, combined with a few redesigned bits for a modern look.
More: Audi Q6 And SQ6 Sportback E-Trons Bow With Sleek Styling And Up To 510 HP
At the front, the A2 e-Tron is distinguished by the slimmer LED headlights, an illuminated Audi badge on the covered grille, and a cleaner bumper design. The profile has been enhanced with the omission of door handles, mirror-replacing cameras, wide fender extensions, and a new set of aero-optimized alloy wheels.
The tail has also been updated with modern graphics for the taillights, a cleaner design for the tailgate, and a transparent rear spoiler with an integrated brake light. The limited footage of the interior reveals that the A2 e-tron has been retrofitted with Audi Sport bucket seats.
Audi A2 E-tron
Audi A2
The automaker congratulated the trainees, students, and supervisors involved with the conversion. Audi’s apprentices have been responsible for cool projects in recent years, including the RS6 GTO in 2020, and the reborn NSU Prinz electromod in 2023.
Never Reached Its True Sales Potential
The Audi A2 appeared in late 1999, although its design – signed off by Luc Donckerwolke – is based on the 1997 Audi Al2 Concept. The 3,826 mm (150.6 inches) long subcompact hatchback with the MPV-like shape was focused on efficiency, featuring an aerodynamic shape (0.25-0.29 cd), frugal powertrains, and extensive use of aluminum in its construction.
While the model was generally praised in reviews, its steep pricing and quirky design resulted in slow demand. When production ended in 2005, only 176,377 units of the A2 had rolled off the assembly line, making it a sales flop.
2010’s more conventional Polo-based Audi A1 supermini served as an indirect replacement for the A2. The 2011 Audi A2 Concept and the more recent 2019 Audi AI:ME Concept were closer to the original model in styling, but didn’t result in a production vehicle.
While the ICE-powered A1 and Q2 will soon be dropped from the lineup, Audi is reportedly working on a new entry-level EV, which is expected to debut in 2027. The model will most likely use an odd number for its name, with the A2 moniker deemed possible.