The 2028 A4 e-tron promises to be an affordable and high-tech EV
- Audi is reportedly gearing up to launch a new A4 e-tron in 2028.
- The model will reportedly ride on the all-new SSP platform.
- We can also expect a radical design inspired by the Concept C.
BMW and Mercedes are gearing up to launch electric versions of the popular 3-Series and C-Class with their i3 and EQ Tech models retrospectively. This is putting Audi in an odd spot as they have an assortment of electric crossovers, but not an affordable sedan.
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That’s expected to change in 2028 with the arrival of the all-new A4 e-tron. Besides reviving the classic moniker, the model will reportedly usher in a new platform and a bold new look inspired by the Concept C, setting it apart from the current ICE-powered A5 that succeeded the previous A4 in the lineup.
New Underpinnings
According to Autocar, Audi CEO Gernot Döllner confirmed the A4 e-tron will ride on the Scalable Systems Platform (SSP), which will also be used on several other Volkswagen Group vehicles. These are said to include the next-generation Golf as well as the Skoda Octavia and Cupra’s flagship crossover.
While little is known about the platform, it should be more advanced than the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture that underpins the Porsche Macan Electric as well as the A6 and Q6 e-trons.
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The A4 e-tron could also become the first Audi to use software developed in partnership with Rivian. This is supposed to pave the way for “software-defined vehicles” that become “more intelligent, more sustainable, and more enjoyable over time.”
Döllner told the publication, “We are heavily working on it with the Rivian-Volkswagen joint venture, building up mules right now and working intensively together, so the first cars are already on their way.” He suggested the software will debut in two new vehicles and help to reduce complexity.
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Beyond the technical overhaul, the A4 e-tron will adopt the new ‘Audi brand face.’ This means we can expect a minimalist front fascia that features a rectangular grille with a portrait orientation. It will likely be flanked by slender four-element headlights, as Audi has previously said they’ll define their visual identity.
Little else is known about the car at this point, but Döllner suggested we can expect “less virtual buttons” and more dedicated switchgear. He said that’s what customers want, and it’s hard to argue with that.
