Audi’s Efficient EV: A German-Built Electric Car That Falls Just Short of Regulations
Audi has unveiled the A2 e-tron, its most affordable electric vehicle built in Ingolstadt, Germany. Priced from €38,200, it offers a range of up to 646km (WLTP) and efficient performance.
Key Features:
- Range: The best version boasts a 646km WLTP range, while the efficiency-focused model consumes 12.8 kWh per 100km with a drag coefficient of 0.24.
- Design: Air curtains, gap reducers, and an active cooling intake contribute to its aerodynamic design, featuring a flat underbody.
- Specifications: Four output options (168-322hp) and three battery sizes (52, 61, and 84 kWh) with lithium iron phosphate cells.
- Pricing: The ID.3 Neo, sharing the same platform, starts at €33,995, while the A2 e-tron adds €4,205 to that cost.
The Regulatory Challenge:
The A2 e-tron measures 4.32 meters, just 12 centimeters longer than the proposed M1E small-car category by the European Commission, which would make it eligible for reduced fleet CO2 targets. While Brussels aims to stimulate affordable EV development with this category, Audi’s offering falls just outside the threshold.
Market Implications:
Audi faces competition from established models like the Renault 5 and upcoming vehicles such as the Volkswagen ID. Polo, all of which meet the M1E criteria. The company is also aware of parallel imports of its own China-built models that are cheaper than European ones.
Additional Features:
- Bidirectional Charging: Standard across all models, allowing users to power tools or appliances up to 3.6kW.
- Vehicle-to-Home (V2H): Currently available only in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
The A2 e-tron represents a step towards more efficient and affordable electric vehicles in Europe, even if it just misses the mark in terms of regulations. Its launch comes at a time when EV registrations are on the rise, with a 51% increase in July alone.