Audi launching over 20 new models by 2026, including major EV shift -- report

German luxury automaker Audi is going all-out over the next three years as it transitions to a full electric vehicle (EV) lineup.

British motoring publication Auto Express reported on January 2023 that the firm is planning to launch over 20 new models by 2026, with its last internal-combustion engine (ICE) model coming out in 2025.

“We’re working on EVs and successors to the ICE models,” Audi design chief Marc Lichte told Auto Express. 

“That’s why we’re focusing on cars like the Activesphere concept, which is our last show car for the next few years so that we can focus on series production,” he added.

The Audi Activesphere is a concept electric sport-utility vehicle touted for launch in 2027.

It is expected to take on the likes of the Land Rover Defender, which will also get an EV variant soon, and the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.

The Activesphere will use Audi’s new PPE platform, which was co-developed with Porsche and will underpin the next generation of Audi EVs.

The platform features an 800-volt electronic architecture for rapid charging up to 270 kW, with 100-kWh batteries expected for top-spec variants. 

A maximum range of 644 kilometers is expected for specific PPE models. There will also be single or dual-motor options with Quattro four-wheel drive and high-performance RS variants.

“For me, RS is a combination of performance, functionality, and stance,” Lichte said. “I love the RS 6 because of the wide track, and I can promise you that this will continue with our EVs. There is a glimpse of this in the e-tron GT concept car - that car shows what I’m talking about here.”

The first Audi EV to use the PPE platform will be the upcoming Audi Q6 e-tron crossover, which is slated for launch this year.

Meanwhile, an A6 e-tron sedan and an A6 e-tron Avant station wagon will join the lineup in 2023.

What do you think of Audi’s "high-voltage" ambitions?