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Here’s what we know about the first-ever A4 e-tron.
The fourth-generation Audi A4 has been around for quite some time, but the understated compact luxury sedan will soon be replaced by a revolutionary electric vehicle aimed directly at the Tesla Model 3 and BMW i4.
Per Autocar, the newcomer will arrive towards the end of 2025 and be sold alongside a heavily revised version of the existing A4. However, the ICE-powered model will adopt the A5 badge under Audi’s new naming convention, with even numbers reserved for EVs.
The report suggests the new A4 will be distinct from its gas-powered sibling, borrowing styling cues from the upcoming Q6 and A6 e-tron electric vehicles. Like these models, the electric A4 will be underpinned by the sophisticated PPE (Premium Platform Electric) architecture co-developed by Porsche and Audi.
The so-called A4 e-tron, like the rest of Audi’s electric range, will distinguish itself with sleek and elegant styling aided by short overhangs and sporty bodywork. This will give customers visual cues to tell the A4 apart from its combustion-powered sibling.
According to Oliver Hoffman, head of the Technical Development division, Audi designers are satisfied with the switch to the new platform, which has ideal proportions. A sedan and wagon will be offered, although we expect only the sedan will come to America.
The next-generation e-tron vehicles will introduce various innovative features, such as a new battery pack positioned between the axles. This will reportedly have a usable capacity of 100 kWh, which should provide Ingolstadt’s EVs with generous range figures. The A4 e-tron will receive 800-volt charging capabilities as standard, with a maximum charging speed of 270 kW.
By comparison, when plugged into a fast charger, the Q4 e-tron has a charging speed of 150 kW.
Audi’s electric A4 will glean 155 miles of range in 10 minutes. Given that the A6 e-tron concept has a claimed range of 435 miles (on the WLTP cycle), we estimate the A4 e-tron could travel 350 – 370 miles on a single charge. If so, the Audi will surpass the Model 3 in the all-important range race.
The battery, a nickel-manganese-cobalt item, comprises 15 individual cells that have been cleverly arranged to maximize floor plan and interior space while improving energy density. Electronics are also managed in a new way. Audi uses more energy-efficient silicon-carbide semiconductors within the wiring structure, while the electric motors will be equipped with square-section stator wiring.
So, what about performance? As expected, Audi will introduce several variants of the A4 e-tron to suit different tastes and budgets.
The range will kick off with a rear-wheel drive 45 e-tron, making it the first A4 with RWD, while a more potent 55 e-tron will also be offered. This model will have dual electric motors, four-wheel drive, and 396 horsepower.
We can also expect a sporty S4 model with 510 hp, making it even more powerful than the latest RS4. There’s no word on whether an electric RS4 will join the range, but Audi Sport has said we have much to look forward to regarding future RS performance models. Aerodynamics will play a significant role in the design of electric Audi RS models, but Head of Audi Design Marc Lichte has said the brand will continue to build beautiful yet functional performance cars.
As for the interior, expect the A4 e-tron to take its lead from the Q6 e-tron, which has a suitably upmarket cabin.
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