Audi has made a significant splash with the simultaneous unveiling of the E Concept sportback and the introduction of its new Chinese sibling brand, AUDI. The E Concept is a striking electric vehicle that boasts a stunning interior featuring a sweeping pillar-to-pillar 4K touch display and an expansive glass rooftop, setting a new standard for modern automotive design.
In a bold move, AUDI emerges as a sister brand to Audi, specifically tailored for the Chinese market. This new brand distinguishes itself with a logo that omits the iconic four rings, instead opting for a bold representation in four capital letters. Developed in collaboration with SAIC, AUDI maintains the design DNA of its parent brand while carving out its unique identity.
The E Concept sportback, the first model from AUDI, is a product of joint efforts between German and Chinese engineers. This innovative vehicle not only showcases the brand’s commitment to electric mobility but also serves as a preview for three upcoming production models set to launch in mid-2025. The AUDI E Concept is designed as a fully electric sportback, equipped with driver assistance features tailored specifically for the Chinese market.
Aesthetically, the AUDI E Concept presents a minimalist exterior, characterized by smooth, rounded wheel arches and wrap-around lighting graphics that enhance its modern appeal. The elongated roofline, accentuated by the glass roof, contributes to a spacious feel within the cabin, inviting passengers to experience a new level of comfort.
The design of the front and rear of the AUDI E Concept integrates lamps, sensors, and aerodynamic elements into a cohesive unit, framed by a sleek black loop. With a focus on the preferences of Chinese consumers, the design teams have ensured that the vehicle is equipped with cutting-edge technology.
The centerpiece is the impressive curved 4K touch display, which not only provides essential driving information but also features digital exterior mirrors seamlessly integrated into the screen. The center console offers convenient storage for smartphones, while the doors showcase illuminated wood and microfiber accents, inspired by contemporary architecture.
New technologies are revolutionizing the way we interact with our vehicles, and the AUDI E Concept is no exception. With the ability to access apps and infotainment through facial recognition, this innovative design elevates the driving experience. At the heart of the interior, AUDI’s design teams have integrated an AI avatar that acts as a personal assistant for the driver. This system can be activated through touch or voice commands, creating an engaging interaction that feels remarkably human-like, thanks to its emotionally attuned voice and language.
The controls for the AUDI E Concept are thoughtfully positioned on a touch-sensitive bar located just below the AI Assistant on the center console. This design exemplifies AUDI’s commitment to merging tactile and digital controls seamlessly within the sportback car. The result is a user-friendly interface that enhances the overall driving experience, making it intuitive and enjoyable.
On the performance front, the AUDI E Concept boasts two electric motors situated on the front and rear axles, generating an impressive total power output of 570 kW and 800 Nm of torque. Coupled with the renowned Audi Quattro four-wheel drive system, this powerhouse accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.6 seconds. Equipped with a 100-kWh battery, the car offers a remarkable driving range of 700 km and is designed for fast charging, allowing for over 370 km of range after just 10 minutes of charging. Tailored specifically for the Chinese market, the AUDI E Concept sportback is expected to hit the roads by mid-2025.