At the end of the year, Audi is set to launch its fully electric sedan, the A4 e-tron, positioning it as a direct competitor to the Tesla Model 3.
This move marks Audi’s significant step forward in the electric vehicle (EV) market.
Competition in the Premium Segment
In the premium German trio, the BMW i4, launched in 2021 and refreshed in 2024, has been enjoying a clear advantage.
To date, neither Audi nor Mercedes has offered a direct rival. However, this competitive lull will soon come to an end.
By late 2025, Audi will respond with the introduction of its A4 e-tron. Following this, in 2026, Mercedes will unveil its “EQC” sedan—an all-electric counterpart to the C-Class.
Positioned below the EQE and EQS sedans, the EQC will return to a more traditional design.
Mercedes is making this shift after its customer base—known for their conservative preferences—rejected the unconventional “banana-shaped” silhouette of previous models, despite its aerodynamic benefits.
BMW’s Next Move: The i3
Not to be outdone, BMW is preparing an entirely new i3, built on the Neue Klasse platform set to debut with the BMW iX3 SUV later this year.
Both the i3 and iX3 will feature a futuristic digital interface, which was recently showcased at the CES 2025 in Las Vegas.
The Audi A4 e-tron: Built on a Proven Platform
The Audi A4 e-tron will utilize the PPE (Premium Platform Electric) architecture, which is shared within the Volkswagen Group by models such as the Porsche Macan, Audi Q6 e-tron, and Audi A6 e-tron.
Like the A6 e-tron, the A4 e-tron will offer two body styles: a sedan with a hatchback configuration and the Audi A4 e-tron Avant, a station wagon.
Inside the cabin, Audi continues its trend of platform-wide component sharing. Expect a luxurious, modern interior featuring a 26.4-inch curved display that enhances the dashboard’s sophistication.
Impressive Range and Fast Charging
This 100% electric family sedan will come equipped with a battery close to 100 kWh, delivering an estimated range of around 700 km.
Thanks to advanced 800 V charging technology, the A4 e-tron will offer rapid charging capabilities, enabling a 250 km range with just 10 minutes of charging.
Powertrain Options for Every Need
The most premium versions of the Audi A4 e-tron will borrow the 367 hp electric motor from the Audi A6 e-tron, placing it on par with the BMW i4 eDrive40.
The core lineup, however, will likely include a 285 hp variant aimed at competing with the BMW i4 eDrive35.
For performance enthusiasts, Audi plans to introduce the S4 e-tron and RS4 e-tron in the coming years. The A4 e-tron will also complement the Audi A5 range, which launched in late 2024.
The Audi A4 e-tron represents Audi’s commitment to innovation in the electric vehicle market. With cutting-edge technology, impressive range, and versatile body styles, this electric sedan is set to make waves in the EV segment.
Stay tuned as the competition heats up in the race for premium electric dominance.
