Audi’s Budget EV Set for 2026 to Take on Mercedes CLA EV

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Audi AG boasts a diverse range of electric vehicles, primarily targeting the premium segment of the e-mobility market. However, this focus may shift in the near future as the German luxury automaker prepares to launch its most economical electric vehicle to date. Although specific details about this new model remain limited, Gernot Döllner, CEO of Audi AG, has provided insights regarding its anticipated release timeline.

Audi's most affordable EV launch moved up to 2026

Audi's entry-level EV launch has been accelerated to 2026. In an interview with the German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung, Döllner announced that the introduction of Audi’s most affordable electric vehicle has been moved up from its original global launch date of 2027. He also mentioned that this new model will be manufactured at the company’s facility in Ingolstadt, Germany. While Audi has not disclosed extensive information about this vehicle, it is expected to share its platform with an existing offering from the Volkswagen Group.

The upcoming Audi EV will take on the new Mercedes-Benz CLA EV as well as models like the BMW iX1 — The new electric vehicle may be based on either the Volkswagen ID. 3 or the ID. 2 models. While the ID. 3 has been available for some time, the ID. 2 appears to be a more likely candidate. Volkswagen plans to unveil the production version of the ID. 2 globally next year, and Audi could introduce a more upscale variant utilizing the same foundational elements. The Volkswagen ID.2all concept, revealed in 2023, is built on the MEB Entry platform and features a robust electric motor delivering 223 bhp, along with a range of 450 km (WLTP). Volkswagen has indicated that the production model will offer the spaciousness of the Golf while remaining as affordable as the Polo.

Will compete with the Mercedes-Benz CLA EV and BMW iX1. The MEB Entry platform will enable Audi to price this model more competitively while also sharing development costs. Given the brand's recent struggles with electric vehicle sales, introducing a more budget-friendly EV is essential. Additionally, Mercedes-Benz is preparing to launch the new CLA EV, and BMW offers models like the iX1 in the entry-level segment. Presently, Audi's most affordable electric vehicle is the Q4 e-tron.

Audi's entry-level EV is expected to be available globally by 2026, with India also likely included in its rollout alongside other international markets. The model is anticipated to debut by late 2026 or in 2027. Further information regarding body styles, range, and features will be released next year.

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