Audi Reveals 764-HP Electric Wagon Concept for China

Audi is refining its strategy in China after years of success in the market. The German automaker is relaunching its brand in partnership with the Chinese giant SAIC, with a new lineup of cars sporting the “AUDI” name on the bodywork, rather than the traditional four-ring logo. The Audi E concept car represents this new direction, designed specifically for Chinese consumers to meet their unique preferences and needs.

The Audi E concept takes on a distinct form, prioritizing the Chinese market’s continued love for sedans. Unlike the global shift toward SUVs, Audi has opted for a low-profile wagon design. Measuring 191.7 inches long, it’s slightly shorter than the 2024 Audi A6 Allroad but features a longer wheelbase, is wider by around three inches, and is a little lower in height.

Equipped with a dual-motor powertrain that powers both the front and rear axles, the Audi E concept generates 764 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. This all-wheel-drive vehicle claims a 0-62 mph acceleration time of just 3.6 seconds.

Its 100.0-kWh battery provides an estimated range of 435 miles according to China’s CLTC cycle, and its 800-volt system enables the car to gain around 230 miles of range in just 10 minutes of charging. The vehicle also boasts advanced driver assistance features that enable highway driving, urban traffic navigation, and automated parking.

The concept car presents a modern, clean design with smooth surfaces and a sleek front end. Intricate lighting elements, which wrap around a body-colored panel, give it a futuristic edge, similar to the E-Legend EL1 electric supercar. The design also incorporates sensors for automated driving and aerodynamic components within the lighting loop, a theme continued at the rear.

Inside, the cabin is highlighted by a wide array of 4K screens across the dashboard. The outermost screens function as digital side-view mirrors, and a touchpad beneath the displays allows for seamless navigation through the interface.

A calming interior blend of white fabric, light wood, silver trim, and purple ambient lighting creates a peaceful atmosphere. The updated operating system runs on the screens, utilizing facial recognition and an AI voice assistant to provide crucial information.

Developed through a collaboration between teams in Germany and China, the Audi E concept previews three upcoming production models set to debut in China in mid-2025. Audi recognizes that Chinese luxury car buyers are younger, more tech-savvy, and have high expectations for connectivity and automation.

Fermín Soneira, formerly in charge of Audi’s electric lineup, now leads this new division, also branded as “AUDI,” which differentiates itself with all-capital lettering. The collaboration between Audi and SAIC combines each company’s strengths.

Audi contributes its legacy in designing and engineering premium vehicles, while SAIC brings its ability to rapidly develop new products, along with deep knowledge of the Chinese market and its technology infrastructure.

Together, they’re developing the Advanced Digitized Platform, a new architecture that will support three upcoming mid-size and full-size EV models. The EV models and technology previewed by the Audi E concept are expected to remain exclusive to China, as Audi pursues a separate strategy for Europe and the U.S., featuring models like the Q6 e-tron and A6 e-tron.