by Presentation of the New AUDI E SUV Electric Concept
Exactly one year after launching the AUDI sub-brand for the Chinese market, Audi, together with its partner SAIC, is preparing to release its second series model. This comes just a few months after the start of sales of the E5 Sportback sedan in September.
Electric Off-Roader Concept
An electric off-roader concept, the AUDI E SUV, was presented at the auto show in Guangzhou, which is intended to form the basis for the 2026 series model. The car looks almost production-ready, inheriting the design language from the E5 sports sedan.
Key Model Characteristics
Exterior and Dimensions
Among the characteristic design features are wraparound light signatures, clean surface lines, and pronounced wheel arches. The electric vehicle has short overhangs, retractable door handles, and camera-based mirrors. The sculpted C-pillars create a unique silhouette.
The AUDI logo is now placed on the front. The concept’s length is 5,057 mm with a wheelbase of 3,060 mm, making it almost identical in size to the internal combustion engine Q7.
Interior and Technologies
The manufacturer did not show the interior, but it will likely be similar to the E5 Sportback’s interior with a massive 27-inch 4K display occupying most of the dashboard. The concept is also equipped with the AUDI 360 driver assistance system, developed specifically for Chinese road conditions.
Technical Features
The AUDI E SUV is built on the ADP platform shared with SAIC. Two electric motors with a combined output of 671 hp are paired with a quattro all-wheel-drive system. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes about 5 seconds.
The 800-volt battery with a capacity of 109 kWh provides a range of over 700 km according to the CLTC standard. In 10 minutes of fast charging, approximately 320 km of range can be replenished, which is slightly less than the more aerodynamic E5 Sportback with its 770 km on a single charge.
Extended Version of the A6 e-tron
Alongside the concept, an extended version of the A6L e-tron, specially developed for the Chinese market, was presented in Guangzhou. The model received an additional 132 mm of wheelbase and an updated front end with a black decorative element that connects the main headlights.
The interior is equipped with a special multimedia system and enhanced driver assistance systems. The car uses an 800-volt architecture with a 107 kWh battery, providing a range of 770 km.
Development Strategy in China
AUDI’s management describes this expansion as part of a large-scale business restructuring in China. CEO Gernot Döllner called it “the largest model initiative in the company’s history,” noting that five new localized models have already been launched in the second half of 2025.
Audi China President Johannes Roscheck emphasized the brand’s dual strategy, combining two types of powertrains and two partners to ensure long-term growth. In his opinion, “local innovations have now become part of our foundation,” as the company seeks to combine its internal combustion engine heritage with the gradual transition to electric vehicles.
The development plan is set until 2026, when several more new products are expected to join the portfolio of models specifically designed for China.
The presented models demonstrate the deep adaptation of the German brand to the requirements of the world’s largest auto market. Cooperation with local manufacturers allows not only a faster response to consumer needs but also the introduction of technologies specifically developed for local operating conditions. The emphasis on the development of autonomous driving systems optimized for the specifics of Chinese cities and highways is particularly indicative.
