Audi has begun production of the A2 e-tron at its plant in Ingolstadt, Germany. This new compact electric car marks the return of the A2 nameplate, abandoned since the mid-2000s, in an entirely different formula.
Developed specifically for the European market, the A2 e-tron is positioned as Audi's new entry-level electric model. Orders have been open in Germany since September 10, at a starting price of €38,200. First deliveries are expected in December.
Audi has not announced any plans to bring the new A2 EV to the Canadian market, sadly.
Powertrain of the 2027 Audi A2
The lineup comprises four power outputs. The base version develops 168 hp, while at the top of the range, output reaches 322 hp. The announced versions use a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor and rear-wheel drive.
Three battery packs are offered. The 52-kWh pack uses lithium iron phosphate chemistry, while the 61 and 84 kWh packs use a nickel-manganese-cobalt composition. With the largest battery and a 170-kW motor, range can reach up to 646 km on the European WLTP cycle.
The 168-hp variant, when equipped with the optional efficiency package, boasts energy consumption of 12.8 kWh/100 km. According to Audi, this is the lowest energy consumption ever achieved by a production model from the brand.
Aerodynamic work contributes to that efficiency of performance. The A2 e-tron features a drag coefficient of 0.24 thanks to an active air intake, a largely enclosed underbody, aerodynamic wheels, and flush door handles. Elements integrated into the wheel arches also reduce the gap between the tyres and the bodywork.
Charging tailored to each battery
DC fast-charging power varies depending on the configuration. It reaches 100 kW with the 52 kWh battery, 105 kW with the 61 kWh pack, and 183 kW in the case of the 84 kWh unit. Audi claims a 10 to 80% charge in 24, 25, or 29 minutes, respectively.
Bidirectional charging will be available as an option. The Vehicle-to-Load function will allow users to power devices or electric bicycles from the car. In certain European countries, Vehicle-to-Home technology will also enable energy transfer to a residence equipped with a compatible wallbox.
Interior of the 2027 Audi A2
The boot of the A2 e-tron offers a volume of 396 litres, which expands to 1,336 litres when the rear seatbacks are folded down.
The cabin receives a standard 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch central touchscreen housed in a single curved panel. The infotainment system includes the Audi assistant with artificial intelligence as well as a route planner that accounts for charging stops.
Audi also integrates a Fidlock magnetic attachment system to secure various accessories.
Depending on the configuration, more than 300 vehicle components are manufactured from recycled materials.
Adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, evasive steering assist, driver attention monitoring, parking sensors, and a reversing camera are part of the standard equipment.
Streamlined manufacturing in Ingolstadt
Audi states that it shortened the development time of the A2 e-tron by 21 months compared to its previous vehicle projects. The automaker also reduced the number of parts and variants to simplify production.
The bodies of the A2 e-tron are manufactured in facilities that are also used for the Audi A3. In the body shop, camera-guided robots can recognize and retrieve loose components placed in bins.
Audi says it implemented a fixed production sequence established six days before assembly begins. This method enables suppliers to prepare components in their order of use and reduces storage requirements at the plant.