The A6 e-tron family is expanding: Audi is launching an entry-level variant with rear-wheel drive and a more affordable variant with quattro drive. The new drive variants are now available to order. The A6 Sportback e-tron costs 62,800 euros, and the A6 Avant e-tron 64,450 euros. The price for the A6 Sportback e-tron quattro1 is 79,800 euros, and for the A6 Avant e-tron quattro2 81,450 euros.

At its world premiere in July this year, the new A6 e-tron was presented in two versions: the Audi A6 e-tron performance34 with rear-wheel drive and a system output of 270 kW (with Launch Control 280 kW) and a sporty Audi S6 e-tron56 with quattro drive and an output of 370 kW (with Launch Control 405 kW). Two further variants are now available to order: a more affordable A6 e-tron with rear-wheel drive and a smaller battery, which has a total gross capacity of 83 kWh (75.8 kWh net), as well as another model with quattro all-wheel drive and a larger battery capacity of 100 kWh (94.9 kWh net).

The new A6 e-tron with rear-wheel drive (power consumption in kWh/100 km combined: 16.6-13.6; CO2 emissions in g/km combined: 0; CO2 class: A) has a system output of 210 kW (with Launch Control 240 kW) and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in six seconds. Thanks to the 800-volt technology and a maximum DC charging output of 225 kW as standard, short charging stops are possible with the Audi A6 e-tron. At a suitable charging station (High Power Charging, HPC), up to 260 kilometers can be recharged in just ten minutes for the Sportback and 245 kilometers for the Avant. The State of Charge (SoC) increases from 10 to 80 percent in 21 minutes. Intelligent, high-performance, and predictive thermal management makes this impressive charging performance possible. The total range is up to 627 kilometers for the A6 Sportback e-tron and up to 598 kilometers for the A6 Avant e-tron. The A6 Sportback e-tron is the most economical derivative within the A6 e-tron family.

The new, additional variant with quattro drive (power consumption in kWh/100 km combined: 17.5-14.7; CO2 emissions in g/km combined: 0; CO2 class: A) has a system output of 315 kW (with Launch Control 340 kW) and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. The A6 e-tron quattro12 can be recharged in just ten minutes at an HPC charging station with a maximum charging capacity of 270 kW, giving the Sportback a range of up to 290 kilometers and the Avant a range of 280 kilometers. Here, too, the State of Charge increases from 10 to 80 percent in just 21 minutes. The range is up to 716 kilometers (A6 Sportback e-tron quattro1 ) and up to 685 kilometers (A6 Avant e-tron quattro2 ).

Market launch and prices

The new variants are now available to order. Prices for the A6 e-tron start from 62,800 euros for the Sportback and 64,450 euros for the Avant. The A6 Sportback e-tron quattro1 costs 79,800 euros, the price for the A6 Avant e-tron quattro2 is 81,450 euros.

Article source:www.audi-mediacenter.com

1. Audi A6 Sportback e-tron quattro: Electric power consumption (combined): 16.5–14.7 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 0 g/km; CO2 class: A

2. Audi A6 Avant e-tron quattro: Electric power consumption (combined): 17.5–15.5 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 0 g/km; CO2 class: A

3. Audi A6 Sportback e-tron performance: Electric power consumption (combined): 15.9–14.0 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 0 g/km; CO2 class: A

4. Audi A6 Avant e-tron performance: Electric power consumption (combined): 17.0–14.8 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 0 g/km; CO2 class: A

5. Audi S6 Sportback e-tron: Electric power consumption (combined): 16.7–15.7 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 0 g/km; CO2 class: A

6. Audi S6 Avant e-tron: Electric power consumption (combined): 17.4–16.4 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 0 g/km; CO2 class: A

Flat hierarchies, clear responsibilities, faster decision-making processes: Audi is systematically restructuring its vehicle development in line with the principles of the matrix organization. With the internal presentation of the new collaboration model, Gernot Döllner and the project team have now laid the groundwork for the transformation of Product Line Management, Technical Development, and the associated interface partners at Audi. At the same time, the CEO announced the reorganization of other divisions.

The principle of Product Line Management has been established at Audi for many years and has been tried and tested in practice. The clear aim of the current matrix organization and Technical Development transformation projects was to focus development, decision-making, and management structures, thereby accelerating the overall development process at Audi. “Vorsprung durch Technik and strength in innovation are two fundamental pillars of our product promise. To continue living up to our claim, we must make Audi fit for the future again,” says Gernot Döllner, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG. Over the past six months, more than 200 experts from the pertaining areas have prepared various work packages relating to the transformation, analyzed processes and structures, and developed and optimized the new collaboration model.

“We have already achieved a lot since last fall as part of the Audi Agenda. The implementation of the matrix organization now marks the start of a decisive stage,” Gernot Döllner said during an information event for the more than 10,000 employees directly involved. “I would like to thank the entire project team, who, together with our more than 200 experts, resolutely addressed uncomfortable topics. We also need this openness and transparency for the reorganization of other divisions. After all, the past few months have shown that the automotive industry is facing major challenges. Vehicle development is therefore only the first step. We must and will make Audi more efficient, more competitive, and more resilient for the future.”

The new organizational development guidelines, which will now be applied across all divisions, form the basis for the reorganization of other areas. The target vision: flat hierarchies and broad organizational structures, a reduction of interfaces, streamlining of committees, and the dedicated linking of responsibility and decision-making to defined roles.

For the new vehicle development structure, this means a clear separation of strategy, management, and implementation. To achieve this, Audi is bundling portfolio and product strategy in an organizational unit that reports directly to Gernot Döllner as Chairman of the Board of Management. Entrepreneurial responsibility and management of vehicle development for the respective projects will be assumed by the operational product lines. In the future, this will also include direct access to all business-relevant topics and greater scope for decision-making. Technical Development is responsible for the actual development work and holds explicit responsibility for the vehicles’ features, systems, and functions. To this end, Technical Development will align itself with the respective interfaces to the vehicle projects as efficiently as possible. At the same time, it will have an increased ability to act concerning the specification, design, and integration of software and electrical/electronic platforms.

The launch of the new collaboration model is planned for the beginning of 2025.

Articles source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

The new Audi A5 impressed numerous media representatives and many potential customers with its qualities at its world premiere. Now it is proving its qualities in the south of France: the model variants of the Audi A5 unfold their full potential on the winding roads of the Côte d'Azur.

The scenery is straight out of a James Bond movie: a narrow road winds through the French Maritime Alps between rugged, overgrown mountains. It leads through tunnels carved into the rock and features bends of all kinds, alternating between tight turns and long sweepers. The hinterland of Nice, France, offers the perfect setting to get to know the character of the new Audi A5 models. The roads of the Côte d'Azur are particularly challenging for the chassis and drivetrain of the new mid-size models based on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) due to their profile.

Powerful and partially electrified gasoline and diesel engines with MHEV plus

The new A5 model series marks the launch of the first engines with the new MHEV plus technology from Audi – a 48-volt mild-hybrid system with powertrain generator, belt starter alternator and lithium iron phosphate battery. The MHEV plus system raises the performance and efficiency of the new Audi A5 TDI and Audi S51, 2 models to a new level. While the systems ensure dynamics on the mountain passes at Saint-Paule-de-Vence thanks to the additional electric power of up to 18 kW (24 hp), they also excel in the city traffic of Nice with purely electric driving during stop-and-go. When decelerating, the powertrain generator feeds energy back into the compact lithium iron phosphate battery with up to 25 kW of regenerative braking.

A perfect symbiosis: thanks to the high charging capacity, there is usually enough power in the battery for the next rapid acceleration.

The MHEV plus system also offers numerous advantages in urban traffic. On the one hand, the electric support for the combustion engine significantly reduces fuel consumption, especially when driving slowly. On the other hand, the stored energy helps to supply systems that have high power draws with electricity, even when the combustion engine is not in operation - at traffic lights, for example. At a sufficient state of charge, the electrically powered air conditioning compressor, for example, continues to operate and keeps the interior at a comfortable temperature.

More dynamic chassis and steering design

The decisive factor for a driving experience that is true to the Audi DNA is not only the drive, but also the chassis. When developing the new Audi A5 and S51, 2 models, the driving characteristics typical of the brand were right at the top of the specifications. These characteristics include effortless and precise driving. The new Audi A5 should impress with its dynamic and agile handling, but also with its comfort. To achieve this, Audi has revised the chassis with a number of detailed improvements. For example, the steering has been mounted directly to the body and also uses a significantly stiffer torsion bar. These measures reduce the elasticity between the steering wheel and the wheel. As a result, the driver receives precise feedback from the road conditions in every situation.

When cornering, the Audi A5 family benefits from a more rear bias in the anti-roll stabilization and a stiffer connection to the rear axle, allowing it to be steered with agility. The integrated brake control system with brake torque vectoring enables a dynamic build-up of brake pressure. It also supports dynamic cornering through targeted braking interventions at the wheels on the inside of the corner.

The new Audi A5 rolls off the production line with dynamically tuned steel suspension as standard. Alternatively, S sports suspension (standard on the Audi S51, 2 ) and S sports suspension with electronic damper control are also available. Both optional variants lower the body by 20 millimeters. The optional adaptive S sports suspension with damper control offers a significantly wider spread between the individual driving modes that can be selected via the Audi drive select dynamic handling system. The dynamic mode is noticeably firmer and more dynamically tuned, while the comfort mode offers more reserves for a relaxed drive.

New operating concept with two interior displays

On entering the car, the new displays immediately catch the eye: the 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit and the 14.5-inch Audi MMI panoramic display in a curved design. Optionally, the 10.9-inch MMI passenger display complements the Digital Stage. Outstanding ergonomics and simple, driver-centered operation were key elements in the development of this concept.

The curved panoramic display is designed so that it can be reached and operated effortlessly.

The new Audi A5 models feature the Audi assistant, a voice assistant that understands natural language and also learns independently. The driver activates the assistant via the voice command "Hey Audi" or via a button on the steering wheel. This can be used to execute various vehicle functions, start navigation, or request general knowledge. If the Audi assistant cannot answer the question, the AI-chatbot ChatGPT, provided via Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, is used, which accesses millions of data records and provides answers. This is seamless for drivers, as all functions are integrated into the Audi assistant.

The head-up display (HUD) in the new Audi A5 models was also newly developed. Thanks to the maximum utilization of the installation space and the adapted display technology, the visible image area is more than 85 percent larger than before and the display is even more precise. In addition, the HUD is now configurable and displays additional content on request. The HUD displays information such as speed, assistance systems, navigation instructions and media data in a clear way. The newly designed steering wheel controls allow users to scroll through lists and make direct selections without taking their eyes off the road. Calls can also be received and made via the HUD. Depending on the model and equipment, there are further display modes.

Audi offers the optional Bang & Olufsen Premium sound system with 3D sound and headrest speakers for all those who like to enjoy music in the car. This impresses with maximum acoustic precision and a natural sound. A total of 20 loudspeakers and two amplifiers with 810 watts of power provide a unique audio experience. Four loudspeakers are integrated into the front headrests of the optional sports seats. They enhance the personal surround sound experience and provide an immersive sound experience. They also create a much more balanced sound between the front and rear rows of seats. The acoustics when making phone calls also benefit from the headrest speakers, because phone calls cannot audibly penetrate to the outside of the car and the occupants in the front seats can conduct personal phone calls. Navigation prompts can also be transmitted directly to the driver's headrest upon request, so no one in the other seats will be disturbed.

New standards in digital light

In the class of the new A5 models, Audi is underlining its leading role in the chapters of lighting design and lighting technology. At the front, the Audi A5 family offers digital, optionally customizable daytime running lights with LED technology and, at the rear, second-generation digital OLED rear lights. With around 60 segments per digital OLED panel, they are increasingly developing into a display at the rear of the vehicle on the A5. This enables car-to-x communication and increases safety on the road. This includes, for example, the new communication light, which warns other road users during automated parking and in the event of an accident or hazard by means of a specific light symbol within the digital light signature.

The dynamic lighting effects when unlocking and leaving the vehicle reflect the aesthetics of movement as part of the Audi DNA. The same is true of the active digital light signature, which sets the light in the headlights and rear lights in motion in an unprecedented way. The headlights and rear lights are three-dimensionally drawn and offer optional digital light signatures, bringing the physical and digital worlds together.

Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

1. Audi S5 Sedan TFSI: Fuel consumption (combined): 7.8–7.4 l/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 178–169 g/km; CO2 class: G–F

2. Audi S5 Avant TFSI: Fuel consumption (combined): 8.0–7.6 l/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 182–171 g/km; CO2 classes: G–F

The renowned European consumer protection organization Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) has awarded the Audi Q6 e-tron the top rating of “five stars”. The vehicle was assessed in the categories “protection of adult occupants”, “child safety”, “protection of vulnerable road users”, and “assistance systems available as standard” and achieved excellent results in all test categories.

The testers from Euro NCAP rated the “protection of adult occupants” at 91 percent, which is almost full marks and offers optimal protection. For the first time in an Audi model, “post-crash functions” (including rescue data sheets for emergency services and e-call) were assessed, with the Audi Q6 e-tron scoring very well.

With a rating of 92 percent in the child safety category, the Audi Q6 e-tron model family is currently “Best in Class” among all vehicles tested so far in 2023 and 2024. Features that go beyond requirements and consumer protection also contribute to this. For example, the Q6 e-tron is one of the few models in the vehicle segment to have three “i-Size seats”, two in the rear and one in the front passenger seat. “i-Size” is a European safety standard for child seats that was introduced in 2013 and ensures unrestricted compatibility between child seat and vehicle. The front passenger seat in the Q6 e-tron is equipped with automatic deactivation of the front passenger airbag for rear-facing child seats; the car virtually “comprehends” when it must turn them off. The restraint systems have been further improved for use with child seats and offer optimal protection for children of all sizes.

Vehicle safety is a top priority at Audi, where 220 experts carry out more than 1,000 complex crash tests as well as around 20,000 virtual accident simulations every year and are constantly working on new safety functions.

The NCAP test results apply not only to the Audi Q6 SUV e-tron presented in March, but also to the Sportback variant, which will be launched on the market in 2025, and the respective S models. On October 14, Audi will present the Sportback version of the Q6 e-tron family to the world for the first time at the 2024 Paris Motor Show.

Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com