Audi will start working on the new compact EV after launching e-Tron Quattro; could be slightly larger than A3 sedan
Audi is focusing on its ambitious strategy to roll out a range of electric vehicles by 2025. While the Audi e-Tron Quattro will be the first model in the upcoming EV fleet, there will be an electric compact sedan as well that will directly challenge the Tesla Model 3. This sedan will be slightly larger than the current Audi A3 sedan.
The upcoming Audi electric compact sedan will be underpinned by Volkswagen’s Modular Electric Drive (MEB) platform, which will mark the German luxury car brand using the architecture for the first time. This electric compact sedan is expected to arrive in the market by 2020 and upon its launch in the IS market, it is likely to be priced at less than $50,000, equivalent to Rs. 32,04,625.
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Interestingly, Audi showcased e-tron Sportback concept at 2017 Auto Shanghai and it could inspire the upcoming Model 3 rival. The Audi electric compact sedan will be powered by twin electric motors combined with a battery pack and each motor delivering power to a single axle. Combined, the two motors will churn out a range topping 300 hp of power output. It will be able to run around 482 kilometers on a fully charged battery.
Currently the German luxury car manufacturer is preparing to launch the e-Tron Quattro in the market in 2018. It is based on the e-Tron Quattro concept displayed at the 2015 Frankfurt Auto Show. Based on the Audi MLB platform, this electric vehicle will arrive with similar proportions as the A6. Initial cars in Audi’s EV fleet include two mid-size crossovers and a premium compact model, which is believed to be the Tesla Model 3 rival.
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Audi’s strategy to roll out EV fleet is a part of its parent company Volkswagen’s EV dream that got a boost after the Dieselgate scandal came under light. To salvage its image, Volkswagen has cleared its ambition to emphasise on electric cars and to launch several EV models by 2025.
Audi e-Tron Sportback Concept Gallery
Source: Car and Driver