The axles of the new Audi Q6 e-tron have been kinematically refined, and its control systems and steering finely tuned, to deliver the brand’s signature driving dynamics. The result is a high level of emotionality and driving pleasure, thanks to the sporty powertrains. Among its innovative features is an augmented reality head-up display, marking a significant leap in digital display technology.
As the road climbs steeply for about 150 meters and curves into a demanding hairpin bend, precise steering is crucial. The flowing sequence of bends that follows is a delight, with their challenging profiles making the roads between Bilbao and San Sebastián perfect for showcasing the Audi Q6 e-tron’s character. The electric SUV’s agility, driven by precise steering and smooth power delivery from the electric motors, is evident on these northern Spanish roads. The suspension, true to Audi’s DNA, balances comfort with sporty dynamism, particularly in the Audi SQ6 e-tron. These varied routes, with their changing elevations and urban passages, highlight the vehicle’s impressive recuperation power of up to 220 kW. This, combined with a sophisticated thermal management system, significantly enhances the efficiency of the first model on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE).
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Optimized Driving Dynamics
The Audi Q6 e-tron’s kinematically refined axles deliver true driving dynamics, resulting in greater agility and improved steering. The redesigned front axle, with control arms positioned in front of the suspension arms and steering rigidly bolted to the subframe, significantly influences driving dynamics. New software modules provide continuous, enhanced feedback on driving and road conditions via the steering wheel, supporting the vehicle’s agility.
The rear-biased drivetrain, featuring highly variable all-wheel drive distribution, further boosts the electric SUV’s driving dynamics. Many chassis components, including suspension, steering, drivetrain, braking, and control systems, are newly developed and finely tuned to embody Audi’s premium experience. The driving experience, whether balanced and controlled or connected and precise, is quintessentially Audi.
Drive select mode changes the driving characteristics noticeably. Automatic ride height and damping control offer a spectrum from supreme comfort to pronounced sportiness.
Powerful Motors for Sporty Performance
The Q6 e-tron’s electric motors transform the routes around Bilbao and San Sebastián into pure driving joy. The Audi Q6 e-tron quattro and SQ6 e-tron feature a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PSM) on the rear axle and an asynchronous motor (ASM) on the front. The Q6 e-tron quattro delivers a combined output of 285 kW (387 hp) and accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds. This model offers up to 625 kilometers of range, while the SQ6 e-tron, with 380 kW (516 hp) in launch control mode, reaches 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds and has a range of up to 598 kilometers. The e-tron Sportsound, a digitally generated soundscape, enhances the sporty driving experience, varying according to speed and drive select mode.
Efficiency Through Recuperation and Friction Braking
The Q6 e-tron offers various recuperation levels, particularly effective on diverse routes. Two-stage coasting recuperation, adjustable via steering wheel paddles, and the ability to sail—allowing the SUV to roll freely—optimize energy use. The drive mode “B” offers a one-pedal feeling, where the vehicle can handle around 95% of everyday braking through recuperation. Ideal conditions allow for up to 220 kW of recuperation. The braking system seamlessly integrates regenerative and friction braking for maximum efficiency and stopping power.
Advanced Thermal Management
The Q6 e-tron’s 800-volt architecture and advanced thermal management are crucial for its charging performance, efficiency, and consistent driving performance. Capable of charging at up to 270 kW, the thermal management system uses data from various sources to optimize battery conditioning. The newly developed lithium-ion battery, with a total capacity of 100 kWh, balances energy density and charging performance. With lower cobalt content and reduced resistances, the battery supports rapid charging, offering up to 255 kilometers of range with just ten minutes at a fast-charging station.
Innovative Display and Operating Concept
The new Digital Stage, featuring an 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit and a 14.5-inch MMI touch display, provides comprehensive vehicle and route information. The optional 10.9-inch MMI passenger display enhances this digital experience. The second-generation augmented reality head-up display (AR HuD) projects vital information onto the windshield, creating a virtual image that appears to interact with real-world objects, aiding driver awareness without distraction.
With the Q6 e-tron, Audi’s first model on the PPE, the blend of driving dynamics, range, charging capabilities, and design is impressive. More details on this all-electric SUV and its technologies can be found in the Audi MediaCenter.
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