According to reliable sources, German newspaper Handelsblatt has uncovered new information concerning the ongoing issues with Audi and Porsche’s new PPE platform for electric vehicles. The premiere of the highly anticipated Audi Q6 e-tron has been postponed to the summer of 2024. Meanwhile, the unveiling of the new A6 e-tron, originally slated for early next year, will now take place no earlier than May 2024, with production commencing in early November 2024. Furthermore, it has been reported that development work on the Q8 e-tron, based on the PPE platform, has been completely halted.
These delays are said to be a result of decisions made by Audi’s new CEO, Gernot Döllner, who took over from Markus Duesmann in September. Previous reports suggested that the setbacks were primarily related to software issues associated with the management system of the PPE platform. However, the hardware components such as the drivetrain and battery have reportedly been ready for about a year. Consequently, the Audi Q6 e-tron, the first vehicle to utilize the new platform, is now expected to arrive by the end of 2023, or possibly as late as March or even the summer of 2024.
The impact of these delays on the upcoming Porsche Macan EV, a close relative of the Audi models, remains uncertain. Additionally, the Audi A6 e-tron is facing even greater setbacks, with deliveries now slated to begin in early 2025 instead of the originally planned summer or fall of 2024. The presentation of the A6 e-tron has been postponed until no earlier than May 2024, with production scheduled to start in the 45th week of 2024, or early November.
The suspension of development work on the Q8 e-tron, also based on the PPE platform, is reported to be comprehensive. Challenges related to both software and mechatronic components are hindering progress. Handelsblatt also claims that the Q8 e-tron is expected to play a crucial role as the successor to the current Q8 e-tron and serve as a foundation for the development of Volkswagen’s electric vehicle, which will replace the VW Atlas in the market.
The new CEO, Gernot Döllner, is described as “demanding,” “confrontational,” and pushing for “rapid changes,” which has not been well received by certain Audi engineers. However, the pressure to deliver the promised products of his predecessor, Duesmann, remains on his shoulders, albeit without overwhelming the sales department with an overabundance of premieres.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the PPE platform?
A: The PPE (Premium Platform Electric) platform is a modular electric vehicle platform jointly developed by Audi and Porsche. It serves as a basis for their future electric vehicle models.
Q: When will the Audi Q6 e-tron be launched?
A: The premiere of the Audi Q6 e-tron has been delayed and is now expected to take place in the summer of 2024.
Q: What is the status of the Audi A6 e-tron?
A: The Audi A6 e-tron will not be available before May 2024, with production scheduled to begin in early November 2024.
Q: Why have the development works on the Audi Q8 e-tron been halted?
A: The development of the Audi Q8 e-tron based on the PPE platform has been completely suspended due to various issues related to software and mechatronic elements.