Automaker Audi Sets Debut for Budget-Friendly Electric Vehicle in 2026

Audi Announces New Entry-Level Electric Vehicle for 2026

German automaker Audi has announced plans to introduce a new entry-level electric vehicle (EV) in 2026. The vehicle, which will be produced in Ingolstadt, is expected to be positioned in the A3 segment and will measure around 4.3 meters in length.

The new EV is anticipated to be an SUV, a format that is currently highly sought after. Audi's CEO, Gernot Döllner, described the new model as a "really great model" in March.

While the technical specifications of the new EV are yet to be revealed, it is expected to offer more power, longer range, and faster charging capabilities than current MEB models. The vehicle may use the Volkswagen Group's MEB electric vehicle toolkit in an adapted version for more compact models.

One notable feature of the new EV is its space-saving electric powertrain, which is expected to make the vehicle significantly more spacious inside compared to the A3. This could provide a competitive edge in the crowded EV market.

Interestingly, the smallest models, the A1 and Q2, will not have electric successors. Currently, the most affordable electric vehicle offered by Audi is the mid-size SUV Q4 e-tron.

Initially, Audi had planned to start production of a new EV in 2027. However, due to unspecified reasons, the production timeline has been advanced by a year.

In 2019, Audi showcased a concept of a modern electric compact Audi for megacities with the AI:ME concept. It seems that this concept has evolved into the upcoming 2026 model.

Exact battery capacity and range details for the new EV are yet to be confirmed. However, it is expected that the vehicle will target competitive electric range and charging improvements, with a 400V architecture limiting charging performance compared to 800V systems. Potential dual-motor all-wheel-drive versions could deliver around 250 kW power.

As Audi moves forward with its electric vehicle strategy, the new entry-level EV is a significant step towards a more sustainable and electric future for the brand. More details about the vehicle are expected to be revealed in the coming months.