Prototype is a “highly emotive reinterpretation of (the) Quattro”

Audi unveiled its snow-ready Q6 concept this week in a potential nod to the future.

Taking a standard Audi Q6 e-tron as the reference point, the concept has been raised by 160mm and widened by 225mm and fitted with new front and rear bumpers giving it an imposing, monster truck-like presence. An LED light signature is a neat feature, while a fitted roof rack is the cherry on top of the cake to make it a true off-roader.

It features two electric motors with a combined power output of 380 kW. The new prototype has been developed to tackle the toughest terrains and can climb 45-degree gradients thanks to its new Audi-designed portal axles, which enable greater ground clearance and a 50% increase in torque at the wheel compared to the conventional 20-30% increase. Speed isn’t on the list of the Q6 concept’s main attributes, with its top speed limited to 108mph, but how much are you realistically going to require in the snow? Audi says it’s “sufficient for an off-roader”, anyhow.

The Q6 e-tron was Audi’s first vehicle built on Volkswagen’s modular Premium Platform Electric (PPE), which has since been used in production for the second generation Porsche Macan EV.

Audi CEO Gernot Döllner spoke after the first test drive, saying: “The Q6 e-tron offroad concept is a reinterpretation of quattro. The model shows the potential that our platform for all electric vehicles already has today. This vehicle can claim new ground. We look forward to seeing our customers’ reactions to this highly emotive car.”

Will it head into production? Following Audi’s win at the 2024 Dakar Rally, the German brand created 1,000 Q8 e-trons for left hand drive markets at $130,000 a piece. Audi will most likely judge reactions before investing in a similar venture.

When will we first see it in action?

The Audi Q6 e-tron offroad concept will appear at the F.A.T. Ice Race on February 1st. Keep an eye on the @AudiSport Instagram page for more details.

words: Mike Booth
pictures: Audi