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Recent reports from Germany suggest that Audi is currently facing new delays in developing their electric vehicles. The launch of Q6 and several other models from the e-tron family has now been delayed due to ongoing software development issues faced by Cariad, a Volkswagen subsidiary responsible for improving the technological aspects of the new models.
However, Audi has also encountered another obstacle in their plans. Gernot Döllner, the new CEO and a close associate of group CEO Oliver Blume, has expressed discontent with the projects he inherited from his predecessor, Markus Duesmann. Döllner has demanded “swift changes” and a “complete redesign” of the new electric vehicles, leading to significant delays. Previously, Duesmann had aimed to launch around ten electric vehicles by the end of 2025. However, the lack of progress reportedly led to his dismissal last summer.
Audi Models Delayed
- Q6 e-tron: Now scheduled to be unveiled in March of 2024
- A6 e-tron: Now likely to be revealed after May 2024
- Q8 e-tron: Undergoing significant revisions or potential cancellation
Due to various challenges, the unveiling of the Q6 e-tron has now been postponed until March of next year. However, there are speculations of further delays, which could also impact the electric Macan. It has been reported that Audi and Porsche have agreed to prioritize the unveiling of the Audi SUV, followed by the Porsche counterpart. The A6 e-tron, which was initially planned for an early 2024 release, is now anticipated to be revealed in May. Additionally, the Q8 e-tron project, which was scheduled to launch in 2026, is currently undergoing a significant overhaul or could even be canceled due to software and mechanical component issues.
To address these challenges, Audi’s currently working on a new plan to use the large battery-powered SUV as a platform for the electric successor of the Volkswagen Atlas, which is presently only available in the United States and China. This approach aims to optimize resources and enhance cooperation within the Volkswagen Group.
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Source: Handelsblatt Newspaper
