The new Audi A2 e-tron revives Audi’s small-car nameplate two decades after the original disappeared, returning as a fully electric model focused on efficiency. Audi says the A2 e-tron uses a maximum of 12.8 kilowatt-hours per 62 miles, making it the most efficient vehicle ever to wear the four rings.
Audi A2 e-tron Targets Maximum Efficiency
The original A2 arrived at the start of the millennium with a streamlined, almost space-age design and an aluminum spaceframe that helped keep its weight below 2,000 pounds in some configurations. Despite those qualities, the minicar did not resonate strongly enough with buyers and left the market after roughly five years without a successor.
The new A2 e-tron takes a different approach to efficiency. Rather than concentrating on low weight through aluminum construction, Audi has focused on reducing power consumption.
Audi quotes maximum consumption of 12.8 kWh per 62 miles, making the A2 e-tron its most efficient vehicle ever launched. It is also more efficient than the Volkswagen ID.3, a similarly sized hatch that shares its MEB platform with the A2 e-tron, Q4 e-tron, Volkswagen ID.4 and ID. Buzz.
The figure compares favorably with the roughly 14.3 kWh per 62 miles recorded by the current efficiency king, the Lucid Air. However, Audi’s rating uses the more lenient WLTP test cycle used overseas, rather than the EPA cycle used by the Lucid.
How the A2 e-tron Achieves Its Efficiency
Audi says the A2 e-tron’s efficiency comes from a series of smaller improvements rather than one major technical solution. Aerodynamics play a key role, with the car achieving a drag coefficient of 0.24, the best figure in Audi’s compact lineup.
An available Efficiency Package adds a controllable cooling-air intake, aero wheels and wheel-arch gap reducers. Low-rolling-resistance tires also help reduce the energy required to keep the vehicle moving.
Four Power Outputs and Three Battery Sizes
The A2 e-tron uses permanent-magnet synchronous motors with rear-wheel drive. Silicon-carbide semiconductors in the power electronics help reduce conversion losses.
Buyers can choose from four power levels ranging from 167 to 322 horsepower and three battery sizes from 52 to 84 kWh. The most efficient configuration combines 188 hp with a 61-kWh battery.
Audi estimates that setup can deliver around 320 miles of range, although that figure is also based on the WLTP test cycle.
Compact Dimensions, Spacious Interior
The Audi A2 e-tron measures 169.3 inches long, making it almost 20 inches longer than the original A2 and similar in length to a Hyundai Kona or Nissan Kicks.
Despite its compact dimensions, the cabin offers up to 47.2 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded. The interior is more sparse than most Audis, with the dashboard and doors covered in a fabric called Softwrap.
An available panoramic glass roof adds a sense of airiness, while the cabin also features storage solutions such as the standard Fidlock magnetic fastening system. It can secure items including cupholders and a charging-cable bag.
Technology Takes Center Stage
The A2 e-tron comes standard with a panoramic display that combines an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster with a 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen.
Audi also includes an AI-powered assistant and an EV route planner capable of planning charging stops and conditioning the battery for faster charging.
Standard driver-assistance features include adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, evasive assist, parking sensors and a rearview camera. Available options include an augmented reality head-up display and matrix LED headlights.
Audi A2 e-tron Production and Pricing
Production of the Audi A2 e-tron will take place at an Audi plant in Ingolstadt, Germany. Deliveries in Europe are scheduled to begin late this year.
Pricing in most European countries will start at 38,200 euros, approximately $44,400. The new A2 e-tron is not destined for the USA.
Two decades after the original A2’s short run, Audi is bringing back its efficiency-focused small car as a fully electric model. For European buyers, the A2 e-tron combines compact dimensions, electric power and a focus on low energy consumption, while U.S. buyers will not receive the new model.
