Audi plans to add hybrid models to its U.S. lineup, according to Audi of America President Vito Paladino. While the automaker has not announced which vehicles will receive electrified powertrains or provided a launch timeline, the company says it is evaluating which models would benefit from hybrid technology.
Audi Plans to Expand Its U.S. Hybrid Portfolio
Unlike several luxury competitors, Audi currently does not offer a hybrid model in its core U.S. lineup. Customers can choose between conventional combustion-engine vehicles and all-electric models, but there is currently no hybrid option.
According to a report by Automotive News, Paladino confirmed that hybrid models will soon join Audi’s U.S. lineup. However, he did not specify whether the company plans to introduce conventional hybrids, plug-in hybrids, or both.
Company Reviewing Which Models Will Receive Hybrid Powertrains
Paladino said Audi is assessing its product range to determine which vehicles are best suited for electrified powertrains.
“We’re looking at which segments, which models do we need to further extend the offering,” Paladino said.
He also indicated that U.S. customers will not necessarily have to wait for mid-cycle refreshes before hybrid variants become available.
European Lineup Offers Multiple Plug-In Hybrids
Audi already sells plug-in hybrid versions of many of its vehicles in Europe. Models including the A3 and Q3 are available there with plug-in hybrid powertrains.
According to the report, the Q7 and the recently launched Q9 are not currently offered as plug-in hybrids in Europe, although they are expected to receive plug-in hybrid variants in the future.
Potential Candidates for the U.S. Market
The report identifies several models that could be logical candidates for Audi’s expanding U.S. hybrid lineup.
The Q5 e-Hybrid is highlighted as a possible option, while the Q3 e-Hybrid is also viewed as a strong candidate because the Q3 is Audi’s second best-selling model in the United States.
The report also notes that future plug-in hybrid versions of the Q7 and Q9 could eventually reach North America once those models become available.
Among Audi’s passenger cars, the A6 and A6 Allroad are mentioned as possible candidates. The report describes the likelihood of an A5 e-Hybrid arriving in the United States as less certain and also notes the possibility of an electrified A3.
No Launch Timeline Announced
Audi has not announced when its hybrid models will arrive in the United States.
While the company has confirmed plans to expand its hybrid offerings, it has not disclosed specific models or a rollout schedule. For now, Audi says it is continuing to evaluate which vehicles will be included in its future U.S. hybrid lineup.
