Audi has officially announced the return of the A2 nameplate with an all-new, fully electric model. The A2 e-tron will serve as the brand’s most affordable EV, filling a gap in the lineup left by discontinued models like the A1 and Q2, while providing a compact alternative to the A3 hatchback. The car is slated for a public debut this autumn.
A Nod to the Past, Focused on the Future
The revival of the A2 moniker is intentional. Audi references the original A2 from the early 2000s, a vehicle known for its efficiency and innovative urban mobility solutions. The new e-tron’s design appears to borrow heavily from its predecessor, featuring a cab-forward silhouette with a steeply angled windshield and short hood for enhanced aerodynamics. Unique design elements such as a two-piece tailgate and flared wheel arches further echo the original A2’s distinctive style.
Positioning and Pricing
The A2 e-tron is positioned to undercut Audi’s existing electric offerings. The Q4 e-tron currently starts at £47,355, but the A2 is expected to begin around £30,000, making it a more accessible entry point into the Audi electric vehicle range. Audi CEO Gernot Döllner emphasizes the goal is to make electric mobility “efficient, compact, and confident,” opening up the brand to a broader customer base.
Under the Hood: MEB+ Platform and Range
The A2 e-tron will likely utilize Volkswagen’s MEB+ platform, an updated version of the architecture underpinning the ID.3, Skoda Elroq, and Ford Capri. Battery options are anticipated to mirror those available in the ID.3, potentially including 58kWh, 77kWh, and 79kWh variants. The largest battery pack could deliver a range approaching 400 miles.
Broader Audi EV Strategy
The A2 e-tron is part of a larger push by Audi to expand its electric vehicle portfolio. The company also plans to unveil the next-generation Q7 luxury SUV and a larger Q9 model this year. CEO Döllner has overseen a review of future product plans, with some projects being delayed or deprioritized to focus on key markets like China and the United States.
“We did both [cut and delay projects]. We stretched the timeframe…and we deprioritised some models and put emphasis on other ideas.” – Gernot Döllner, Audi CEO
The introduction of the A2 e-tron signals Audi’s commitment to making electric vehicles more accessible, while also maintaining a focus on innovation and design heritage.
