Audi is putting the finishing touches on its most affordable electric vehicle (EV), a sibling to the Volkswagen ID.3, and it's set to debut soon as the A2 e-tron. The new model will be an electric version of the A2, which was previously known for its aerodynamic design.
The A2 is making a comeback as an electric vehicle, and its unique look is expected to appeal to budget-conscious buyers looking for an affordable EV option. Unlike the Q4 e-tron, the A2 e-tron will have its own distinct design, setting it apart from other Audi models in the lineup.
Audi's entry-level EV has been spotted testing in public, with a design that appears similar to the outgoing A2. The company is taking a bold approach by introducing an electric version of a car that was previously only available as a gas-powered model.
According to senior company sources, the new model will likely be named the A2 e-tron upon launch. This name suggests that Audi is emphasizing the EV aspect of the vehicle, which is expected to appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
The A2 E-tron will go on sale next year as Audi's most affordable electric vehicle, starting at around £30,000 ($41,000). This price point makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers looking for a reliable and efficient EV.
Although initial plans called for the A2 E-tron to ride on Volkswagen's Scalable Systems Platform (SSP), the company has decided to use the same MEB platform as the ID.3 instead. This decision is likely driven by Audi's desire to create a cohesive lineup of electric vehicles.
Like the ID.3, the A2 E-tron will be available with 58 kWh or 79 kWh battery packs, delivering WLTP ranges of around 265 miles (426 km) and 373 miles (600 km). These range figures suggest that Audi is targeting buyers who want a reliable EV for daily driving.
Audi's engineers have stated that the A2 e-tron is aimed at filling the gap left by the BMW i3, which was discontinued in 2022. This move is likely driven by Audi's desire to create a more comprehensive lineup of electric vehicles and appeal to a wider range of buyers.
The latest spy shots from Baldauf show Audi's entry-level EV headed to the Arctic Circle in Sweden ahead of its debut later this year. This suggests that Audi is planning a robust marketing campaign to generate buzz around the A2 e-tron, which could help drive sales and establish it as a major player in the entry-level EV segment.
The entry-level EV segment is expected to gain significant traction in the coming years, with Audi's latest offering poised to capitalize on this trend.
