Audi is bringing back the A2, 21 years after the original, but this time as a fully electric compact car. The new Audi A2 e-tron promises a sleek design and an impressive driving range, with the model planned for release across Europe this autumn.
Modern Electric Design Focused on Efficiency
The new A2 e-tron is designed to be Audi’s most aerodynamically efficient compact car, achieving a low drag coefficient of 0.24. This is a record for the brand in this segment and helps boost the car’s range. The front features a short, rounded hood with a split lighting system, including ultra-thin OLED strips that can change patterns. A wide new grille complementing adaptive cooling sits below, opening only when needed to manage airflow.
From the side, the profile looks sportier than before, with electric door handles featuring haptic sensors that activate with a light pull or push. Interestingly, each door also holds a small backup power source to ensure they can open even if the main battery fails. At the back, the design pays homage to the original A2 with a unique spoiler dividing the large optional panoramic roof and a relatively small rear window. Distinctive Matrix LED taillights flank the Audi badge and break from the lighting style used in other e-tron models.
Spacious Cabin with Advanced Technology
While detailed exterior dimensions aren’t yet available, the A2 offers a wheelbase of 2.77 metres, providing generous interior space for five passengers. The luggage capacity measures 396 litres, expandable to 1,336 with the rear seats folded.
The dashboard incorporates premium materials along with modern tech, including an 11.9-inch panoramic screen and a curved 12.8-inch touchscreen. Features include an augmented reality head-up display, dual wireless charging pads, adaptive cruise control, obstacle avoidance assistance, and a high-end Sonos audio system with 15 speakers delivering 660 watts. A range of driver assistance systems round out the package, though some functions like autonomous emergency braking are currently only available in Germany.
Multiple Powertrain Options with Rear-Wheel Drive
The Audi A2 e-tron uses rear-wheel drive powered by electric motors labeled APP350 or APP550, paired with silicon carbide power electronics for better efficiency. Audi offers four power variants, paired with three battery options:
- Entry-level: 125 kW (around 170 hp) with a 52 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, 423 km WLTP range
- Mid-level: 140 kW (about 190 hp) with a 61 kWh LFP battery, 501 km WLTP range
- Higher-Performance: 170 kW (231 hp) with a lithium-ion (NMC) battery, up to 649 km WLTP range
- Top model: 240 kW (326 hp) with lithium-ion battery, 630 km WLTP range, and 0-100 km/h acceleration in 5.7 seconds
Charging speeds vary, with the basic trims supporting up to 105 kW DC fast charging, reaching 10 to 80% in about 24-26 minutes. The powerful versions receive 183 kW charging capability, completing similar charges in 29 minutes. The car also supports bidirectional charging (V2L and V2H), allowing it to power external devices or act as a home backup battery when the charge level is between 20% and 80%.
Launch and Market Positioning
Audi will officially reveal the new A2 e-tron at the Paris Motor Show in October, targeting European markets including Spain. This model is expected to compete closely with the Audi A3, creating new choices for buyers deciding between plug-in hybrids and pure electric vehicles. With its efficient design, range options, and modern features, the A2 positions itself as a fresh electric alternative within Audi’s lineup.
More detailed specifications and pricing information are expected to be released closer to the launch event.
Source: motor.es