Last summer, I had the opportunity to test drive the new Audi Q6 e-tron in the Faroe Islands. While the initial drive provided a glimpse of what to expect, detailed information and technological advancements were not readily available. However, after exploring these aspects further in Munich, it is evident that the latest EV offering from Audi, the Q6 e-tron, is a robust all-electric SUV that focuses on enhancing efficiencies across the drivetrain and introducing some significant technological enhancements.
The Q6 e-tron represents Audi’s first vehicle built on the new Premium Platform Electric (PPE) platform, which it shares with the fully electric Porsche Macan. Unlike previous Audi EVs, this model will be predominantly produced in-house, in contrast to the Porsche-sourced e-tron GT and the VW-sourced Q4 e-tron.
Equipped with a 100 kWh lithium-ion battery pack (with 94.9 kWh usable capacity), the Q6 e-tron also offers a smaller 83 kWh option in certain markets. The modular design of the battery pack, featuring 12 modules for the 100 kWh version and 10 modules for the 83 kWh variant, enables Audi to streamline production and achieve consistent weight distribution while saving costs.
Initial models in the U.S. will feature two electric motors powering the front and rear axles, with a potential single-motor rear-wheel-drive version expected to join the lineup later. The innovative motor design, varying stator length rather than diameter, simplifies production and reduces costs. The Q6 e-tron Quattro delivers a combined power output of 422 horsepower (456 hp in launch mode), offering spirited acceleration with a 0-60 mph time of 5.0 seconds. The SQ6 model increases the output to 483 hp (510 hp in launch mode) and accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 4.2 seconds.
Efficiency remains a key focus for Audi, with the rear motor engaging first during acceleration, followed by the front motor. Regenerative braking is also optimized to enable one-pedal driving, with up to 95% of braking capacity achieved without physical brake pad usage.
To maintain optimal performance and longevity, Audi includes advanced cooling systems for the motors and battery pack, reducing the reliance on rare-earth elements and enhancing overall efficiency. The estimated range of the Q6 e-tron Quattro surpasses 300 miles on a single charge, outperforming the Q4 e-tron’s 265-mile range and matching or exceeding the Q8 e-tron’s 300-mile rating.
In terms of charging capability, the Q6 e-tron supports DC fast-charging up to 270 kW, allowing for rapid charging from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes. The incorporation of cutting-edge charging technology, including bank charging on 400-volt systems, ensures efficient and convenient charging options for owners.
While the 2025 Audi Q6 e-tron does not introduce groundbreaking innovations, it represents a significant step forward in electric vehicle technology by incorporating numerous incremental improvements across the drivetrain. The focus on efficiency, both in terms of range and cost, positions the Q6 e-tron as a compelling option in the electric SUV market. Although U.S. pricing details are pending, the European pricing for the Q6 e-tron Quattro and SQ6 e-tron starts at 74,700 Euros and 93,800 Euros, respectively, with availability scheduled for this summer in Europe and late 2024 in the United States.
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