Audi is putting its production-ready Q6 e-tron through its paces at its KALT1 testing grounds in the Swedish part of Lapland, subjecting the electric vehicle to extreme weather testing. Built on the new Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, the Q6 e-tron is expected to be slightly smaller than the current Q8 e-tron and will be available in both SUV and Sportback versions. The PPE platform will also underpin the electric Porsche Macan.
Originally slated for launch last year, the Q6 e-tron’s debut was pushed back due to software issues plaguing the Volkswagen Group. However, the wait may be worth it, as the Q6 e-tron is set to bring significant improvements to electric Audis. The PPE architecture supports up to 350 kW DC charging, promising a charging time of just 25 minutes from 5% to 80% state of charge (SoC), which translates to 300 km of range in under 10 minutes.
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The Q6 e-tron’s smaller size means it will compete with the likes of the Tesla Model Y and BMW iX3 in the crowded B segment of crossover/SUV electric vehicles. Nissan’s Ariya may also be considered a competitor once production issues are resolved. With a decent battery pack, the Q6 e-tron could potentially offer a range of up to 600 km, similar to its larger sibling, the Q8 e-tron 55 quattro.
The Q6 e-tron sports a split-headlight design with the daytime running light (DRL) LEDs positioned high above the driving lights, a trend started by BMW’s i7. The official photos released by Audi reveal visible differences between the production-ready version and a leaked version from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT).
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The Q6 e-tron’s announcement is expected in the coming months, with Audi planning to release at least 10 new EV models by 2025. The company’s ambitious plans reflect the relentless pace of progress in the electric car industry, and failure to keep up would risk Audi becoming insignificant. The Q6 e-tron, along with its PPE platform and improved charging capabilities, may be just what the company needs to stay ahead of the curve.
