The Audi A2 nameplate is making a return on a fresh all-electric hatchback that will serve as the new entry-level model in Audi’s range.
To be officially titled Audi A2 e-tron, the compact hatchback will slot beneath the A3 in the Ingolstadt firm’s line-up and, according to the manufacturer, provide a more affordable and eco-friendly entry point into Audi ownership.
The new model represents a revival of the A2 moniker last seen at the start of the Millennium on a quirky five-door hatchback that broke new ground for efficiency.
Indeed, though it wasn’t terribly popular at the time – with sales lasting just five years - the Audi A2 [below] is retrospectively viewed more favourably.
Constructed with lightweight aluminium, which was shaped to give it especially slippery aerodynamics, the A2 doubled down with efficient engines, narrow tyres and unique packaging that made it one of the cheapest cars to run at the time.
Twenty-five years on from the original’s axe, with the automotive world now leaning into many of the pioneering efficiency innovations the A2 touted back then, Audi has been encouraged to revive the project for a belated successor that will ‘carry this mission forward into the electric age’.
Indeed, the influence of the original A2 looks set to stand the test of time based on the
shadowy silhouette that indicates the new A2 e-tron will adopt a similar size and profile.
While Audi is light on the details beyond the teaser image and confirmation it will be built at its home base in Ingolstadt, the German firm says it will target ‘a broad international customer base that values everyday usability in the city, sustainability, high efficiency, and digital connectivity.
When the Audi A2 e-tron is launched, it will go head-to-head with the likes of the MINI Aceman, Volvo EX30 and Mercedes EQA.
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- New Cars
- Audi