Audi’s Q6 e-tron, its third electric vehicle (EV) for the Indian market, is set to be launched by the end of 2024. Significantly, the Q6 e-tron will be locally assembled at the Skoda Auto-Volkswagen India (SAVWIPL) plant in Aurangabad using Completely Knocked Down (CKD) kits.
This move marks Audi’s first foray into local assembly for an EV in India, potentially enabling a competitive price point around Rs 85 lakh (ex-showroom). This strategic milestone aligns with Audi’s broader India strategy, positioning the Q6 e-tron below the Q8 e-tron (Rs 1.15 crore) and above the Q4 e-tron, which is available internationally but not yet in India. The Q6 e-tron has been spotted undergoing testing in India, evaluated by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) ahead of production.
Currently, there are no direct competitors in India for this segment. Smaller luxury EVs such as the BMW iX1, Mercedes EQA, EQB, and Volvo XC40 and C40 Recharge are priced between Rs 55 lakh to 75 lakh, whereas larger electric SUVs like the Q8 e-tron, Mercedes EQE SUV, and BMW iX are priced above Rs 1 crore.
Specifications and Variants
Audi has unveiled two versions of the Q6 e-tron: a 285kW (388hp) dual-motor Quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant with a 100kWh battery offering a WLTP-certified range of 625km, and a 240kW (326hp) single-motor two-wheel-drive (2WD) variant with a certified range of 641km from the same battery. There are also rumors of a variant with a smaller 80kWh battery. However, given the limited demand for lower-spec models in India, the higher-spec 285kW Quattro variant is expected to be launched.
Future Derivatives
Following the Q6 e-tron, Audi plans to introduce more derivatives. Early in 2025, the sportier SQ6 e-tron is expected, priced around Rs 1.1 crore. This model will feature a 516hp dual-motor powertrain, stiffer suspension for enhanced handling, and a WLTP range of 598km. Additionally, an RS Q6 e-tron with over 600hp, utilizing a dual-permanent magnet synchronous motor setup from the Porsche Macan Turbo, is rumored but not confirmed for India.
Another anticipated model is the Q6 Sportback e-tron, a coupé SUV variant, which is expected to offer a longer range due to its more aerodynamic design. Lastly, the Q6 e-tron’s PPE platform will support the development of the A6 e-tron sedan, which is expected to debut in India by late 2025, using the same powertrains as the Q6 but potentially offering greater range thanks to its aerodynamic profile.
This A6 e-tron is not a replacement for the current petrol A6 sedan. According to Audi’s new model nomenclature, which designates even numbers for EVs and odd numbers for internal combustion engine (ICE) models, the next-gen A6 petrol model will be rebranded as the Audi A7.
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