This is the new Audi we’ve been waiting for: The Audi Q6 e-tron is special as it is the first production model from the German car maker that is based on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) chassis. The Q6 is an electric SUV (sport utility vehicle) that, say the company, embodies the next step in the brand’s transformation into a provider of premium electric cars.
This new model, styled with the ‘e-tron’ logo, is defined we learn not only by impressive driving and charging performance, but also by increased efficiency and an electric range of up to 381 miles. Available to order now, two model variants with all-wheel drive will be available, followed by particularly efficient models with rear-wheel drive only designed especially for range, which will also mark the entry level into the Q6 e-tron series. The Q6 e-tron quattro accelerates from 0-62 mph in 5.9 seconds while the sporty SQ6 e-tron takes just 4.3 seconds (with launch control too). The vehicles’ top speeds are 130mph and 142mph respectively.
On The Outside
The Audi Q6 e-tron is positioned squarely in the premium mid-size segment, offering maximum space, comfort, and suitability for everyday use. There’s lots of legroom in the back, the cabin having sufficient space for five passengers and luggage. So far, so typically SUV. The ratio of a long wheelbase to very short overhangs forms the basis for the familiar, powerful, dynamic package seen in the exterior of all of Audi's Q models. It’s a striking SUV with an impressive and sporty appearance. Soft curves interplay with the creases and edges, lending dynamism to the looks even when stationary, the hallmark of good automotive design.
The upright front features a completely closed ‘Singleframe’ where the grille once was and a mask in either ‘selenite silver’ or gloss black which surrounds the three-dimensionally shaped ‘Singleframe’ and the side air intakes. The high-positioned digital daytime running lights give the Q6 e-tron a very distinctive appearance.
The cabin (or ‘greenhouse’ as Audi insist on calling it for reasons known only to themselves) is stretched low and taut over the body. It is slightly tapered towards the rear, and the gently sloping D-pillars flow elegantly into the bodywork’s haunches: It looks good. The opening between the D-pillar and the roof gives the vehicle a more powerful appearance, making the cabin appear longer. A prominent line running from the rear lights to the rear doors emphasises the upper section of the ‘quattro blisters’, the contours of the body on which the gently sloping D-pillars are supported.
With the second generation of digital OLED rear lights, the Audi Q6 e-tron takes lighting design, functionality, and therefore road safety to a new level. These new lights not only shape the appearance, but also increases the range of functions. The technology, which is debuting in this model, also sets new standards in terms of individualization: With a total of up to eight digital light signatures.
On The Inside
The interior of the Audi Q6 e-tron is oriented more towards the needs of the user than ever. The three-dimensional and high-contrast design of the interior deliberately places elements in the foreground or background, creating a spatial architecture that is tailored to the occupants in terms of design and ergonomics. It’s a spacious vehicle.
The Audi MMI (Multi-Media Interface) panoramic display and the MMI passenger display form a visually clear digital dashboard stage. The “soft wrap” look extends from the doors across the entire cockpit to the centre console, creating a homogeneous and enveloping feeling of space. High-quality materials, some of which are recycled, can be found in the seats. The materials used were selected from a functional point of view and, at the same time, ensured a clear design differentiation between the various vehicle areas in the interior. For example, comfort-oriented areas are designed with generous surfaces and soft materials. In contrast, the precisely designed control areas in high-quality, high-gloss black emphasise the clarity of interaction with the vehicle.
The vehicle has a generous feeling of space and roominess and appears to be very practical by design. The interior offers plenty of storage space and compartments. The increased comfort of the middle seat in the rear is typical of an electric car without a centre tunnel. At the back, the boot (trunk) offers 526 litres of storage space. If the rear seat bench is folded down, the storage space increases to up to 1,529 litres. The rear seats can be folded down separately (40:20:40). There’s also a further 64 litres of storage optionally available in the ‘frunk’ (front trunk) under the front bonnet (hood), providing a convenient place to stow smaller travel bags, for example.
The Audi Q6 e-tron model series has a fully connected and digital interior based on new electronic architecture. Made up by the Audi MMI panoramic display and the MMI passenger display, the so-called Digital Stage is a key feature of the interior. The clearly grouped displays are perfectly integrated into the design concept and again help to give the interior a generous and airy feeling of space.
The slim, free-standing Audi MMI panoramic display has a curved design and OLED technology and consists of the 11.9 inch Audi virtual cockpit and the 14.5 inch MMI touch display. The driver's area is designed as a curve, and the display, with its concave shape, is oriented towards the driver. The ambient lighting makes the curved display seem to float at night and creates a visually appealing setting. Especially for the front passenger, Audi complements the digital stage with the 10.9 inch MMI front passenger display with Active Privacy Mode, which prevents it from distracting the driver while on the move. This allows the front passenger to stream films/video content, assist with navigation or even find an EV charging station.
With the Augmented Reality Head-Up Display, another central element of the digital stage, Audi is taking a major step forward in display technology and it is very effective indeed. The display reflects a large tilted image plane across the windscreen towards the driver and shows relevant information such as speed, traffic signs, assistance, and navigation symbols. The image plane is tilted forward to enhance the augmented reality impression. The focus of the human eye moves with it. This process and the far virtual distance of the image create the impression that the elements shown are floating up to 200 metres (656 ft) away. Amazing. The information can be understood quickly without irritating or distracting the person driving.
Electric Power
Thanks to 800-volt technology and a maximum charging capacity of 270kW as standard, short charging stops are possible with the Audi Q6 e-tron. Up to 158 miles can be recharged in just 10 minutes at a high power charging station on the quattro power-train. The state-of-charge increases from 10 to 80 percent in around 21 minutes. Equipped with Plug & Charge, the vehicle authorizes itself at compatible charging stations when the charging cable is plugged in and commences the charging process. Charging is also fully automatic. If a charging station works with 400-volt technology, the Audi Q6 e-tron can, for the first time, enable bank charging. The 800-volt battery is automatically divided into two batteries at equal voltage, which can then be charged in parallel with up to 150 kW. Depending on the state of charge, both halves of the battery are first equalized and then charged simultaneously. EV technology marches on.
On The Road
Relating to the driver assistance systems of the new Q6 e-tron, Audi provides a wide range of functions that significantly improve everyday driving and road safety for all road users. There’s a ‘parking system plus’ with 360° display, swerve assist and turn assist, top-view camera, traffic-sign-based speed limiter, adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking in front and rear, camera-based traffic sign recognition, intersection assist, lane departure warning,(pauses for breath) lane change assistant and exit warning system, rear cross traffic assist, rear turn assist, and advanced driver attention and fatigue monitor system are all on board as standard from launch. Audi are clearly taking modern day safety seriously.
If interested in this model or indeed any current Audi vehicle, large or small, please get in touch with us here at MHH International and enquire about our VAT-free export service from the UK to Kenya, New Zealand, Ireland, the Caribbean and other global destinations. We’re just an email away.
