Dubai, UAE, 18 August 2025 – The all-new Audi A6 models have officially arrived in the Middle East, introducing two distinct powertrains under one of Audi’s most iconic nameplates.

With more than 30 years of heritage, the A6 has long defined understated performance, executive comfort and refined versatility. Now, with the addition of the A6 e-tron, the model enters a new era: where electric range meets regional relevance.

Both models are tailored to meet the expectations of Middle East drivers – from long-distance journeys to daily usability – and reflect Audi’s commitment to intelligent design, engineering and progress.

Combustion, Reimagined: The All-New Audi A6 Models

Built on Audi’s Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), the all-new A6 is available in Sedan and Avant body styles with power outputs ranging from 150 kW to 270 kW, depending on the variant. Some of the A6 engine variants are equipped with mild hybrid technology that improves fuel efficiency, enhances stop-and-go driving, and supports partially electric propulsion in everyday conditions.

On the road, the A6 model series adapts confidently to both urban and highway driving thanks to adaptive air suspension, all-wheel steering, and quattro ultra all-wheel drive. Whether navigating tight city streets or sweeping desert roads, the driving experience remains balanced, responsive and composed.

With a newly sculpted exterior and refined proportions, the A6 commands presence while optimising airflow. The A6 Sedan achieves a coefficient of drag (Cd) of 0.23 – the best drag coefficient for a combustion model in Audi history.

Fully Electric. Fully Capable: The A6 e-tron

The Audi A6 e-tron marks the next step in Audi’s electric evolution. Built on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE), it is offered in three Sportback variants and the high-performance S6 Sportback e-tron. Power outputs range from 240 kW to 405 kW with launch control, depending on configuration.

With up to 756 km of WLTP-tested range, it currently offers the longest electric range in Audi’s portfolio, making it ideal for long-distance driving without compromise.

The sleek Sportback body achieves a drag coefficient of just 0.21, making it the most aerodynamic Audi of all time. The aerodynamic efficiency plays a critical role in optimising range while also enhancing overall driving smoothness.

Thanks to its 800-volt architecture, the A6 e-tron supports ultra-fast charging up to 270 kW. Drivers can recharge from 10 to 80 percent in just 21 minutes or recover over 300 km of range in 10 minutes – designed to keep up with the pace of regional life.

A Cabin Built for Both Worlds

Originally revealed as a concept at Dubai’s Museum of the Future in 2022, the A6 e-tron brings that vision to life in record time – while sharing a common interior DNA with its combustion sibling.

Both models feature Audi’s new human-centric layout, including a curved panoramic display, with 14.5 inches for the driver and 11.9 inches for the front passenger.

Material quality and usability are prioritised throughout, with clean lines, tactile controls, and considered touches such as interactive rear OLED taillights, a panoramic glass sunroof, and – in the A6 Avant – a versatile luggage area designed for both daily routines and weekend escapes.

Available technologies include an augmented reality head-up display, communication taillights for enhanced safety and expression, and illuminated Audi rings at the rear – a design statement marking the A6 e-tron’s step into the electric era. Together, these elements create a cabin experience that feels progressive, purposeful, and unmistakably Audi.

Built Responsibly, Engineered for Tomorrow

The A6 e-tron is assembled at Audi’s net carbon-neutral Ingolstadt facility, which houses the brand’s in-house PPE battery line. This plant is central to Audi’s commitment to electrify all core segments by 2027.

Rene Koneberg, Managing Director of Audi Middle East, said: “The A6 has long been a cornerstone of Audi’s success in the Middle East as a model that has earned its place through understated performance, everyday usability, and timeless design. With the arrival of the all-new A6 models and the fully electric A6 e-tron, we are building on that legacy with two distinct yet equally compelling expressions of progress. One embodies sculpted elegance and dynamic precision, the other signals a bold new chapter in electric mobility. As a brand, our goal is to empower customer choice, offering vehicles that are not only technically advanced, but emotionally resonant and poised for the future.”

Available Now Across the Region

The Audi A6 e-tron and A6 models are now available to order across the GCC and Jordan. In Lebanon, only the A6 e-tron models will be offered at this time. In GCC, prices start from USD 60,404* for the A6 Sedan, USD 62,704* for the A6 Avant, USD 68,496* for the A6 Sportback e-tron, and USD 99,716* for the high-performance S6 Sportback e-tron.

*All prices are GCC retail, excluding VAT and SP, and include roadside assistance and registration.

• To discover more and configure your model, visit Audi-me.com/A6 and Audi-me.com/A6etron.

In the fast-evolving landscape of Electric Vehicles (EVs), as the automotive industry ushers in a new era of sustainable mobility, innovation is taking centre stage. Audi is once again set to redefine the digital customer experience with the Audi Electric Mobility Information portal. A comprehensive EV-focused online platform, which can be found at audi-me.com/EVhub. is designed to help customers adapt to their new electric mobility lifestyle with Audi, learn more about electric vehicles, find their perfect Audi EV and explore how to get the most out of their electric future.

Audi’s EV Hub stands as a comprehensive one-stop destination, designed to educate both prospective and existing customers on the benefits and practical aspects of operating an electric vehicle.

The platform’s primary objective is to elucidate the key points surrounding the transition from traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles to electric. This ensures that both current and potential customers are not only well-informed but also feel confident in making the switch. The Audi EV Hub aims to provide a clear understanding of the significant advantages offered by EVs, fostering a sense of ease and empowerment among those considering the transition.

At the core of this platform lies a sophisticated cost comparison tool. This tool enables users to make a direct comparison between Audi ICE vehicles and e-tron models. By offering a detailed breakdown of ownership costs, including maintenance, service, fuelling/charging, and operational expenses, potential buyers can now make well-informed decisions that align with their budget and standards. This innovative feature further enhances the user experience, empowering individuals to make choices that suit their preferences and financial considerations.

In addition to this, the Audi EV Hub offers numerous other features designed to enhance the user experience. A range calculator, tailored to various conditions, provides users with insights into the available e-tron’s performance across different scenarios. Charging solutions, both for home and on the road, help to eliminate any uncertainty regarding the practicalities of owning an EV.

Educational articles help to debunk myths surrounding electric vehicles, fostering a deeper understanding of the environmental and economic benefits. Beyond information, the platform equips users with practical tips to enhance their Audi EV’s range. These insightful suggestions, seamlessly integrated with the user-friendly tools of the Audi EV Hub, collectively contribute to a holistic and informed EV ownership experience.

The new platform is a testament to Audi’s commitment to providing customers with a seamless and informative journey into the world of electric vehicles.

All customers in the Middle East are now able to access the Audi EV Hub by visiting: audi-me.com/EVhub.

Dubai, UAE (12^th December 2023) The death of drifting legend Ken Block shook the entire motorsport world at the beginning of January. The previously unreleased last episode of his famous drift videos is a tribute to the American.

‘Electrikhana 2’ was filmed with the Audi S1 Hoonitron in November 2022 – just a few weeks before the snowmobile accident in which Ken Block died at the age of 55. It was a matter close to the heart of the American’s family to complete and release the film in his memory.

Ken Block’s fans can experience their idol one last time in breathtaking driving scenes and stunts with the Audi S1 Hoonitron. The all-electric prototype was developed by Audi Sport as a one-off exclusively for Ken Block. It has two electric motors, all-wheel drive, a total output of 500 kW, a carbon fiber chassis and the full safety standard of the highest motorsport authority, the FIA. Following the filming of the first Electrikhana episode in August 2022, the S1 Hoonitron was further developed in close collaboration with Ken Block. This included reducing weight, improving drivability and simulating gear changes.

In the first episode, Ken Block drifted through Las Vegas with the Audi S1 Hoonitron. The spectacular video reached more than 100 million people worldwide via various channels. Electrikhana 2 was filmed in Mexico City. With 22 million inhabitants in the metropolitan area, the capital of Mexico is one of the largest cities in the world and offered the crew of the Hoonigan company, founded by Ken Block, fascinating locations – from the modern airport to a spiral-shaped parking garage.

Together with the engineers from Audi Sport, Ken Block came up with a very special gimmick for Electrikhana 2 – in addition to a new livery – that only an electric vehicle can offer: In one scene of the movie, the front and rear axles pull in opposite directions, causing the Audi S1 Hoonitron to disappear into a large white cloud when stationary – a scene entirely to the taste of the unforgotten drift artist and his loyal fan base.

Earlier this year Audi Middle East showcased the legendary S1 e-tron quattro Hoonitron at the Museum of the Future for a limited time. Originating from the acclaimed Elektrikhana film released in 2021 featuring drifting stunts in Las Vegas with legendary drifter Ken Block, the S1 Hoonitron has gained global popularity and was a highlight at the Museum of the Future.

Electrikhana 2 is available on Hoonigan’s YouTube channel: YouTube.com/thehoonigans

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (21st September 2023): SAMACO Motors, the official dealer of Audi in Saudi Arabia, presents the official introduction of Audi’s fully electric e-tron range. Unveiling not just one but four premium electric mobility options in the Kingdom, the range consists of the Q8 e-tron, Q8 Sportback e-tron, e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT. This pioneering stride embodies SAMACO’s drive to progress the nation’s premium EV market, aligning perfectly with Saudi’s sustainable goals for a brighter, cleaner, and notably faster tomorrow.

Simon Horabin, Audi General Manager SAMACO Motors, commented, “We’re not just stepping into an electric future; we’re enveloping it in unparalleled luxury and power. The roadmap set by Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 provides the perfect backdrop for the unveiling of the e-tron range. Together, Audi Saudi Arabia and SAMACO Motors look forward to helping the Kingdom develop its vision into a reality.”

Showroom and public charging

Audi Saudi Arabia’s commitment  to progressing the public charging infrastructure in the Kingdom is demonstrated in the investment of 5 high performance chargers (HPC) to be fully installed and operational by the end of 2023. The locations of these high performance chargers has been strategically selected to support high density, urban locations in Saudi Arabia, including Diriyah and King Abdulaziz Financial District (KAFD), in Riyadh. Additional investment in sites across the Kingdom is being explored beyond 2023. The commitment in public charging infrastructure ensures that Audi e-trons’ Kingdom-wide are always prepared for their next adventure.

These installations add to the existing HPCs in Audi Centre’s across Riyadh, Jeddah, and Khobar, with the intent of implementing a comprehensive electric ecosystem for a robust infrastructure rollout in the coming years, whilst supporting the government’s plan to invest in 130 HPCs.

Home charging and value proposition

As part of an Audi e-tron purchase, e-tron customers will enjoy access to a complimentary  home check by Audi’s charging partner, Desert Technologies, to assess the customer’s individual home charging requirements to determine the necessary upgrades or installations needed.

In addition, Samaco Motors will offer each Audi e-tron purchase with a complimentary  Siemens 22kW home charger, which will be installed at the  customer’s home.

e-tron range product offer and specification

The Audi e-tron range will be available with a high level of standard specification across the model line-up. This includes a range of interior, safety and convenience, performance and technological features. A brief summary of the standard specification (to name a few key equipment) is detailed below:

Audi Q8 e-tron:

The new Audi Q8 e-tron carries the success story of the pioneer Audi e-tron forward under a new name. With ample luxury class comfort, an optimized drive concept, improved aerodynamics as well as better charging performance and battery capacity, the Audi Q8 e-tron is the top-of-the line model in Audi’s electric SUV portfolio. A new design for the destinctive front bumper lends a fresh appearance to the Q8 e-tron.

Audi offers the new Q8 e-tron in two body variants: as a classic SUV and as a Sportback that combines the spaciousness of an SUV with the elegant lines of a large coupé. The total luggage compartment volume is also generous, with around 630 liters (including frunk) in the SUV and around 590 liters in the Sportback. The Audi Q8 e-tron offers ample space for five passengers and their luggage, making it the perfect car for long-distance drives.

Three drive variants are available for each of the two body styles – all with electric all-wheel drive. The output range extends from 250 kW in the Q8 50 e-tron and 300 kW in the Q8 55 e-tron to 370 kW in the SQ8 e-tron, which is powered by three electric motors. The models’ ranges lie between 491 and 600 km.

Audi e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT:

Electric mobility is becoming dynamic and fascinating, as proven by the Audi e-tron GT. The four-door coupé, which is introduced on the market as an RS model at the same time, reinterprets the classic idea of the gran turismo: Its design is highly emotive, its technology is revolutionary. Two powerful electric motors provide confident electric all-wheel drive and stunning road performance. The high-voltage battery with a net energy capacity of 84 kWh enables ranges of up to 488 kilometers (for the Audi e-tron GT quattro) to be achieved and can be recharged extremely from 0-100 km/h  in 3.3s thanks to its 800-volt technology. Suspension, lights, controls, connection, or e-tron sport sound: The Audi e-tron GT quattro and the RS e-tron GT demonstrate accumulated technical expertise and the Audi brand’s passion for details.

The e-tron model range includes the following performance credentials:

Furqan Ahmed, the national Marketing Manager at Audi Saudi Arabia, added, “Driving the e-tron is more than an experience; it’s a lifestyle choice. It caters to those who seek performance without compromising on sustainability, all with a near-silent drive, and zero local CO2 emissions.”

The e-tron range: Future foundry for an all-electric Kingdom

The e-tron is not just a car; it’s the future of mobility. Beyond the thrill of its breathtaking acceleration, the e-tron symbolizes everyday practicality. It’s a nod to a future where charging is as effortless as filling up at a gas station. With every e-tron purchase, Audi promises a holistic EV ownership experience. A standard 8-year battery warranty speaks volumes about the confidence in the Audi e-tron’s enduring spirit. Furthermore, Audi Saudi Arabia goes the extra mile, quite literally, with a free home installation, promising a smooth, sustainable drive into the future of premium electric mobility.

The e-tron stands unparalleled in public charging too, with its range calculator answering all distance-related queries. Its capability to journey up to 417 km (WLTP) is a testament to its design, adaptable to both cityscapes and serene countryside’s. The range projections are grounded in real-world driving experiences, even accommodating the luxury of an activated air conditioner, showcasing that efficient driving can stretch those kilometers further.

“With the e-tron, we’re forging a path where tomorrow’s dreams are today’s reality. Our commitment is not just to a car, but to an entire electric ecosystem. The future isn’t just in the cars we drive, but also in the homes we live. Our end-to-end electric solution ensures that our customers are geared up for the future, right from their doorstep to wherever their journey takes them” Simon Horabin adds.

The Audi e-tron range has officially launched in the Kingdom and is available at all Audi Centres’ for test drives. Pricing for the full model range is outlined below:

• Q8 e-tron: starting from SAR 458,000
• Q8 Sportback e-tron: starting from SAR 491,000
• e-tron GT: starting from SAR 556,000
• RS e-tron GT: starting from SAR 723,000

For more information and detailed insights, visit www.audi-saudiarabia.com connect with your nearest Audi dealership at 800 1180099.

March 2022 marked a milestone as Audi Oman proudly unveiled the e-tron Sportback, a symbol of Audi’s commitment to sustainable mobility. This unveiling not only showcased Audi’s dedication to innovative design and exceptional performance but also began an era of anticipation within Oman’s EV industry.

Audi Oman understands the power of collaboration and has actively engaged in strategic partnerships and product placements to create a strong foundation for the EV movement. Collaborations with prestigious organisations such as Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), Beit al Zubair, NBO HQ, Omantel HQ, and Oman Air have paved the way for greater awareness and acceptance of EVs. Through these strategic collaborations, Audi Oman has established itself as a key player in Oman’s sustainable mobility landscape.

Recognising the critical need for a robust charging infrastructure for the benefit of the customers and the Sultanate‘s sustainability, Audi Oman embarked on a mission to establish an extensive EV charger network. In November 2022, their vision became a reality with the launch of the “Audi EVO” charging network. With more than 50 Audi EV chargers installed between July 2021 and June 2023, Audi Oman has built a robust charging infrastructure that ensures convenient, efficient, and reliable charging solutions across the Sultanate.

Audi Oman is not just focused on infrastructure; they are passionate about nurturing a culture of knowledge sharing and innovation. In December 2022, they organised “The Future of EVs” workshop, bringing together industry experts, enthusiasts, and stakeholders to discuss the latest advancements and challenges in the EV sector. This initiative highlighted Audi Oman’s commitment to driving innovation and paving the way for future advancements in sustainable mobility.

As Audi continues to captivate the nation, the brand continues to push boundaries and challenge traditional advertising norms. In 2022, they introduced the first-ever 3D out-of-home (OOH) advertisement in Oman, stunning passersby with the e-tron. This innovative approach showcased Audi Oman’s commitment to delivering captivating brand experiences and further cemented its position as a leader in the EV landscape.

Audi Oman’s dedication to environmental responsibility extends beyond initiatives and partnerships. The brand has actively supported EV adoption by highlighting various public incentives, including exemptions from VAT, Customs Duty, and Registration on EVs, as well as VAT exemptions on all Genuine Parts related to EVs. These measures not only incentivise customers to embrace greener transportation options but also contribute to a more sustainable future for Oman.

As Audi Oman continues to drive innovation and advocate for sustainable mobility, they are actively shaping a future where electric vehicles become the norm. Their remarkable achievements, from the grand unveiling of the e-tron Sportback to the establishment of an extensive EV charging network, have not only propelled Oman into a greener era but also inspired other industry players to follow suit. With Audi Oman leading the way, the journey towards a sustainable and eco-conscious future has begun. Heralding a new chapter in Oman’s automotive landscape.

Systematically designed from the inside out, Audi has unveiled plans for the Audi urbansphere concept car. Designers and engineers initially created the Audi urbansphere for use in traffic-dense Chinese megacities, although the concept is also suitable for any other metropolitan centre in the world. In these urban areas, where personal space is in particularly short supply, the concept car offers the largest interior space of any Audi to date. It intelligently coordinates this with technologies and digital services that appeal to all the senses and offer a whole new level of experience.

“In order to meet the demands of our Chinese customers, Audi’s design studios in Beijing and Ingolstadt worked together closely to jointly develop the Audi urbansphere concept car,” said Markus Duesmann, Chairman of the Board Management at AUDI AG and responsible for the Chinese market. “For the first time, potential customers in China could also take part in the development process, contributing their own desires and perspectives as part of a process known as ‘co-creation’.”

The result can be seen in the Audi urbansphere concept and its particularly striking interior. The spacious automobile acts as a lounge on wheels and a mobile office, serving as a living space during the time spent in traffic. To this end, the Audi urbansphere combines the luxury of complete privacy with a comprehensive range of high-tech features on board, even during the daily rush hour. Automated driving technology transforms the interior, in which a steering wheel, pedals, or displays are notably absent, into a mobile interactive space that provides a gateway to a wider digital ecosystem.

Audi sphere – first class to the power of three

Audi skysphere, Audi grandsphere, and Audi urbansphere are the three concept cars that the brand with the four rings has developed to showcase its vision for the world of premium mobility of tomorrow. In the process, Audi is creating a vehicle experience that goes far beyond the purpose of merely spending time in a car to get from point A to point B.

Sphere number 1: The electrically driven roadster Audi skysphere concept debuted in August 2021. It presented a spectacular vision of a self-driving GT that transforms into a self-driving sports car with a variable wheelbase.

Just a few weeks later, Audi unveiled the second model in the sphere series, the Audi grandsphere concept, at the IAA 2021. This large four-seater sedan exemplified the brand’s ambition to define the future of progressive luxury.

What both concept cars have in common with the Audi urbansphere is that the entire concept is based on level 4 autonomous vehicle technology. Audi is currently working with CARIAD, Volkswagen Group’s software business, to introduce this technology within the second half of the decade.

Fast charging, high range

The heart of the drive system is the 800-volt charging technology. It ensures that the battery can be charged with up to 270 kilowatts at fast-charging stations in the shortest possible time. As such, charging times approach those of a conventional stop to refuel a car powered by an internal combustion engine: just 10 minutes are enough to charge the battery to a level sufficient to power the car to travel more than 300 kilometres (186 miles). In addition, the battery, which holds more than 120 kilowatt hours, can be charged from 5 to 80 percent in less than 25 minutes. This means that a range of up to 750 kilometres (466 miles) can be expected, according to the WLTP standard – and even when used for more energy-intensive city and short-distance trips, it is generally possible to avoid making unexpected stops to charge.

Drive system

The Audi urbansphere concept’s two electric motors are capable of delivering a total output of 295 kilowatts and a system torque of 690 newton metres. These are impressive figures that are often not fully utilised when driving in dense urban traffic. Nevertheless, the Audi urbansphere is still equipped with permanent quattro four-wheel drive – an essential feature for the brand’s high-performance models.

As part of Audi’s vision of progress and plans for future mobility, one of these new concept cars, the Audi urbansphere, is currently on display at the Museum of the Future this Ramadan as part of a new partnership.

UAE, September 28, 2021: The all-new Audi e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT are now available from dealers in select markets across the Middle East. Primed for the road ahead, the electric Gran Turismos are the embodiment of Audi’s vision for the future of mobility and serve as halo models for Audi’s ever-growing electric portfolio.

Progress, craftsmanship, and a passion for high performance come together in the Audi e-tron GT quattro and its RS counterpart, with both models featuring exhilarating launch control, boosting the cars’ ability to deliver up to 530 Hp on the e-tron GT quattro, and 646 Hp on the RS, putting extraordinary power at the driver’s fingertips.

In both models, the interior features an elegant instrument panel with driver orientation and “monoposto character” taken straight out of the R8 supercar, giving the driver a feeling of open, yet controlled space within the cockpit. Drivers have a low seating position and wide centre console.

The chassis includes features such as adaptive three-chamber air suspension and an electronic differential lock on the rear axle. Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light come as standard in the RS version while a number of options are available, including up to 21-inch wheels and all-wheel steering.

And since the dynamic work of art must also sound good, Audi has composed a unique soundtrack for the e-tron GT- one that is powerful and progressive, emanating from speakers integrated within the vehicle’s architecture, and changing as its driving behavior changes. Another automotive first – just as expected from the brand with the four rings.

The e-tron GT quattro has a range of up to 488 kilometres, while the RS e-tron GT has a range of up to 472 kilometres (in accordance with the WLTP). This is made possible by the battery which has a net capacity of 83.7 kWh. The e-tron GT only needs 22.5 minutes on a high-power charging (HPC) column for a typical charge of 5% to 80%. This makes the e-tron GT efficiently sporty, and offers a 100 km range on a five minute charge.

Carsten Bender, Managing Director, Audi Middle East commented: “The introduction of the Audi e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT marks an exciting time for the brand in the Middle East, which is one of the first global markets to make this model available for our customers. With these models, we have introduced an Audi unlike any other – it is a stand-alone Gran Turismo, reinterpreted for the future. Its powerful electric motors provide dynamic driving performance and confident electric all-wheel drive. Its beautiful lines, expressive design and impeccable curves define a model that is dynamic, but also luxurious. We have a four-door coupé whose design is as exhilarating as its futuristic technology.”

With the launch of the e-tron GT, Audi is continuing its transformation into a leader of sustainable premium mobility. In 2020, the brand with the four rings was by far the largest manufacturer of electric vehicles among Germany’s three premium brands.

To coincide with the e-tron GT’s arrival in the Middle East, Audi is also investing in several initiatives focusing on the development of a high performance charging infrastructure in order to contribute to EV readiness in the region.

The Audi e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT are now available to view and test drive at local dealers in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar. The new model will become available across further markets over the next 12 months.

Customers who wish to explore virtually, configure online, view tailor made content or explore the Google map style range indicator, can visit www.audi-me.com or their local dealer to explore and find out more.

Dubai, UAE, August 1, 2021 – Under a year after the initial concept idea, Audi Sport has started testing the new Audi RS Q e-tron, with which Audi will take on one of the greatest challenges there is in international racing in January 2022: the Dakar Rally in Saudi Arabia.

Audi is set to be the first car manufacturer to use an electrified drivetrain in combination with an efficient energy converter to compete for overall victory against conventionally-powered competitors in the world’s toughest rally. “The quattro was a gamechanger for the World Rally Championship. Audi was the first brand to win the Le Mans 24 Hours with an electrified drivetrain. Now, we want to usher in a new era at the Dakar Rally, while testing and further developing our e-tron technology under extreme conditions,” says Julius Seebach, Managing Director of Audi Sport GmbH and responsible for motorsport at Audi. “Our RS Q e-tron was created on a blank sheet of paper in record time and stands for Vorsprung durchTechnik.”

“The Dakar Rally has become one of the most renowned motoring events globally for its rich history and prestige among international racing communities and we are very proud that it is hosted in the Middle East. We’re looking forward to being part of this flagship event where the Audi RS Q e-tron can showcase its unmatched innovation in the unique climate presented by the region,” commented by Carsten Barden, Audi Middle East Managing Director.

The characteristics of the Dakar Rally present the engineers with special challenges. The marathon event lasts two weeks and the daily stages are up to 800 kilometers in length. “That’s a very long distance,” says Andreas Roos, responsible for the Dakar project at Audi Sport. “What we are trying to do has never been done before. This is the ultimate challenge for an electric drivetrain.”

Because there are no charging opportunities in the desert, Audi has chosen an innovative concept: On board of the Audi RS Q e-tron, there is the highly efficient TFSI engine from the DTM. It is part of an energy converter that charges the high-voltage battery while driving. Since the combustion engine is operated in the particularly efficient range of between 4,500 and 6,000 rpm, the specific consumption is well below 200 grams per kWh.

The drivetrain of the Audi RS Q e-tron is electric, with front and rear axles both fitted with a motor-generator unit (MGU) from the current Audi e-tron FE07 Formula E car developed by Audi Sport for the 2021 season. Only minor modifications had to be made to use the MGU in the Dakar Rally.

Visually, the Audi RS Q e-tron also differs significantly from conventionally-powered Dakar prototypes. “The vehicle looks futuristic and has many design elements that are typical of Audi,” says Juan Manuel Diaz, Team Leader of Motorsport Design at Audi. “Our aim was to symbolize Vorsprung durch Technik and the future of our brand.”

The Dakar Rally entry is being run in conjunction with Q Motorsport. “Audi has always chosen new and bold paths in racing, but I think this is one of the most complex cars that I have ever seen,” says team principal Sven Quandt. “The electric drivetrain means that a lot of different systems have to communicate with each other. Besides reliability, which is paramount in the Dakar Rally, that’s our biggest challenge in the coming months.”

Quandt compares Audi’s Dakar project to the first moon landing: “Back then, the engineers didn’t really know what was coming. It’s similar with us. If we finish the first Dakar event, that’s already a success.”

The prototype of the Audi RS Q e-tron had its first roll-out in Neuburg at the beginning of July. An intensive test program and the first test entries at cross-country rallies are on the agenda from now until the end of the year.

For more information about the Audi model lineup, please visit www.audi-me.com

Production of Audi’s final completely newly developed combustion engine model will start in just four years. And beginning in 2026, the premium brand will only release new models onto the global market that are powered purely by electricity. As part of its strategic realignment, the company is accelerating the transition to e-mobility. The manufacturer will be gradually phasing out the production of internal combustion engines until 2033. Audi aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 at the latest.

“Through our innovative strength, we offer individuals sustainable and carbon-neutral mobility options,” Duesmann continued. “I don’t believe in the success of bans. I believe in the success of technology and innovation.” The exact timing of the combustion engine’s discontinuation at Audi will ultimately be decided by customers and legislation. The company expects to see continued demand in China beyond 2033, which is why there could be a supply of vehicles there with combustion engines manufactured locally. At the same time, Audi will significantly expand its range of all-electric models. With the new e-tron GT*, RS e-tron GT*, Q4 e-tron*, and Q4 Sportback e-tron* models, Audi is already launching more electric cars than models with combustion engines this year. By 2025, the brand aims to have more than 20 e-models in its lineup. “With this roadmap, we are creating the clarity necessary to make a decisive and powerful transition to the electric age. We’re sending the signal that Audi is ready,” said Duesmann.

The expansion of a widespread charging infrastructure and renewable energy sources is also crucial for the ramp-up of e-mobility and its acceptance by society. Audi is actively involved in both areas. For example, just a few weeks ago the company from Ingolstadt unveiled the Audi charging hub pilot project as its own premium charging solution with a reservation system and lounge. On top of that, the carmaker has partnered with energy suppliers to promote the expansion of renewable energy sources.
Audi will also be investing all its efforts in the development of the combustion engine right up to its final discontinuation, further improving existing generations to achieve greater efficiency with major customer benefits. As such, one thing is for sure: “Audi’s last internal combustion engine will be the best we’ve ever built,” Duesmann said.

For more information about Audi’s electric model range, please visit www.audi-me.com .

The unveiling of the newly installed stations was celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by Managing Director of Audi Middle East, Carsten Bender and CEO of GreenParking, Sam Alawiye.

“We are very proud and excited to be bringing these charging stations to the Dubai Airport Free Zone – the home of our regional head office,” said Carsten Bender. “We hope that we can encourage the switch to electric vehicles and sustainable mobility with this contribution to our DAFZA community.”

The chargers have been supplied by GreenParking, with the rapid eNext charger being connected to their ground-breaking EV-Network – the only cross country and private EV-Network in the MENA region. Electric vehicle owners across the region will be able to now check availability and reserve this charger through the GreenParking App, along with the hundreds of other chargers in the network.

Sam Alawiye, CEO of GreenParking said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Audi on this project. We know visitors and employees will love the convenience and performance of these EV chargers, as there is always a big demand for them. Our aim has always been to provide green, sustainable parking solutions for the region, so Audi’s contribution to this is a great sign of things to come.”

Audi has been very vocal about its commitment to electrification in the region being one of the first luxury automotive brand to introduce fully electric vehicles in the Middle East.

With a wide range of exciting electric model under its e-tron brand umbrella, the German manufacturer’s latest introduction is the much anticipated fully electric RS e-tron GT supercar set to arrive in the region in September.

For more information about Audi’s electric model range, please visit www.audi-me.com.