Audi, the most successful premium brand in the Chinese market, is to introduce two new models with plug in hybrid drive systems there in 2016. Both models – the Q7 e-tron 2.0 TFSI quattro and the A6 L e tron – are to have their world premiere at Auto Shanghai next week. The Audi prologue allroad show car also offers a glimpse into the future of Audi’s design language.
With the Q7 e-tron 2.0 TFSI quattro, the company is combining a TFSI plug‑in hybrid with quattro drive for the first time. Audi says it has developed this model especially for the Asian markets of China, Singapore and Japan. It is sporty, comfortable and also efficient. The Q7 e-tron 2.0 FSI quattro accelerates from 0 to 100kph in less than six seconds and uses just 2.5 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (94.1 US mpg), according to the measuring method prescribed in China for plug‑in hybrid vehicles.
Powered by the lithium‑ion battery, the large SUV covers up to 53km on electric power alone – quietly, powerfully and with zero local emissions. Total range is 1,020km.
Made-for-China A6 L e‑tron
With the A6 L e‑tron, Audi is taking an important step toward even greater fuel efficiency in China. Its plug‑in hybrid drive with 180 kw (245 hp) offers powerful performance. This model uses an average of just 2.2 litres (106.9 US mpg) of fuel, according to the measuring method prescribed in China for plug‑in hybrid vehicles.
The model is based on the long version of the Audi A6, which the company produces locally in China. It is designed as a highly efficient parallel hybrid, with its two power sources arranged back-to-back. The 2.0 TFSI, a four‑cylinder petrol engine, features 155 kW (211 hp) and 350 Nm (258.1 lb‑ft) of torque. The disk-shaped electric motor provides 91 kW and 220 Nm (162.3 lb‑ft) of torque. Together with a decoupler, it is integrated into the eight‑speed tiptronic transmission and transfers the power to the front wheels. System power is 180 kW (245 hp); maximum system torque is 500 Nm (368.8 lb‑ft).
In the future, the A6 L e‑tron will be produced in a joint venture by FAW‑Volkswagen in Changchun, in the northeast of China. It will be launched in the Chinese market in 2016.