by Sales Start of the Audi E5 Sportback in China
The new electric Audi E5 Sportback, available exclusively in China, starts at a price of 235,900 yuan (approximately $33,100). The car is offered with two battery options: 76 kWh and 100 kWh. The most powerful version with dual motors producing 776 hp costs from $45,000.
Model Popularity and Pre-Orders
Audi recently launched a separate electric vehicle brand in China called AUDI (in capital letters), and this move is already demonstrating success. When pre-orders for the E5 opened on August 18th, over 10,000 reservations were received within half an hour. Such figures are rare for large manufacturers with a long history but are common among Chinese startups. These numbers create a FOMO (fear of missing out) effect, showing how many people are already interested in this electric vehicle with German roots.
Pre-orders are not final and binding, so it is likely that some customers will cancel them by the time the car is delivered.
Technical Specifications and Trims
The base Pioneer variant with a 76 kWh battery and a rear motor producing 295 hp offers a claimed range of 618 km. Other versions include the rear-wheel drive Pioneer Plus with 402 hp and a 100 kWh battery starting at 269,900 yuan ($38,000), as well as a dual-motor variant with 518 hp and an 83 kWh battery at the same price. The flagship Flagship Quattro version is equipped with a 100 kWh battery, dual motors producing 776 hp, and a range of 647 km; its price starts at 319,900 yuan ($45,000).
Interior and Features
The interior of the AUDI E5 Sportback is significantly different from Western Audi models and more reminiscent of other Chinese electric vehicles. It is equipped with a 59-inch screen that spans across the entire dashboard, digital rearview mirrors, soft materials such as leather and alcantara, as well as wireless phone chargers.
Interestingly, the Chinese market continues to dictate trends in the world of electric vehicles, and Audi, by adapting to local preferences, demonstrates flexibility in its strategy. The E5 Sportback model combines affordability, technological innovation, and style, making it attractive to the mass consumer. The success of the pre-orders may indicate growing competition between traditional automakers and new players in the electric vehicle market.
