This is how Audi's smallest car will look like
What's the story
Audi is working on a new entry-level electric vehicle (EV) model, which will replace the current A1 and Q2 cars. The new EV will be Audi's smallest car and is expected to compete with BMW iX1 and the second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLA EV. The vehicle was recently spotted by Autocar's spy photographers for the first time during testing.
Design influence
New EV could revive long-dormant A2 badge
The new Audi EV bears a striking resemblance to the Q4 E-tron, but also shows clear visual influence from the A2 model produced between 1999-2005. This vehicle could get a new name. The revival of the long-dormant A2 badge is one possibility. Audi CEO Gernot Dollner had previously said it was "thinkable" that historic names could be redeployed for future models.
Platform
Car likely based on Volkswagen Group's MEB platform
While technical specifications of the new Audi EV are still under wraps, it is expected to be based on Volkswagen Group's MEB platform. This platform already supports a number of EVs including the Volkswagen ID.3, Q4 E-tron, Ford Capri and Cupra Tavascan. Given its size and positioning between hatchback and crossover segments, it could have similar dimensions as SKODA's Elroq model.
Market positioning
It will be premium offering in its segment
Unlike the SKODA Elroq, the new Audi EV will be a premium offering in its segment. Dollner had previously said that "there are not many brands in the world [that can], but I think Audi can have a true premium offer in the A-segment." This move to replace A1 and Q2 with one model is part of "a wider Audi move to simplify the model line-up," according to Dollner.