BMW, Mercedes and Audi have been serving the Chinese market with special products for decades. Typically, these vehicles have a longer wheelbase as local customers prefer the increased rear legroom compared to the regular models sold worldwide. In many cases, they also have nicer interiors with better materials and amenities.
Recently, Audi went a step further and responded to local trends by setting up its own company with the help of SAIC. The aim is to appeal to “young, technology-savvy customers” with high-end electric vehicles. The name of the new brand is – wait for it – AUDI. Written in capital letters but without the iconic four rings, the new brand launched its first car a few months ago. The E5 Sportback showed the way, and now there is a second model, albeit still in concept form.
AUDI shows the E-SUV concept as a near-production model and gives an outlook on a “large premium SUV”. How large? It is 199 inches (5,057 millimeters) long, 80.3 inches (2,042 mm) wide, and 70.3 inches (1,786 mm) high. Thanks to a bespoke EV platform, Audi, er, AUDI was able to extend the wheelbase to 120.4 inches (3060 mm).
It’s about the same size as the BMW iX. However, by the time it hits showrooms, the Audi E SUV will likely compete with the iX5. Munich hasn’t said whether next year’s new electric model will have an extended wheelbase for China. The reason we bring this up is because the wheelbase of the current X5 has been lengthened for the G18. From 2027, a fully electric iX7 will also complement the range.
Like the E5 Sportback, this new SUV doesn’t really look like an Audi, and that’s because it isn’t one. It’s an AUDI, complete with huge 23-inch wheels, a roof-mounted LiDAR, and side cameras that replace traditional mirrors. Another difference from international models is that the headlights and taillights look as if they blend into the body.
The China-only design hides a large 109 kWh battery with enough energy for over 435 miles (700 kilometers). However, this number is based on the CLTC test cycle, which is known to be more generous than WLTP and EPA. The AUDI E SUV also benefits from an 800-volt architecture, which enables a range of around 200 miles (320 kilometers) after just 10 minutes of charging.
As far as performance goes, there’s plenty. The dual motors deliver a combined 671 hp to a Quattro all-wheel drive system. Despite its size and likely considerable weight, this silent luxury barge only needs about five seconds to reach a speed of 62 mph (100 km/h).
AUDI will offer the new electric SUV for sale in China next year.
