Launched just a little over a month ago,
Audi’s Artemis project is responsible for developing a new electric vehicle, as
early as 2024, which has been aptly described as “pioneering”. So, what are we
dealing with it here? Is it a new big crossover/SUV, jammed with the latest
technology, with fast-charging capabilities, a very generous range and
jaw-dropping performance? Actually, no, because it seems that ‘Project Artemis’
will give birth to a new flagship sedan.
The information comes via Autocar, which
reported that the model is known internally as the E6 and is still in the early
stages of development. Nonetheless, the production variant, which could be
either a four-door sedan or a five-door liftback, might be known as the A9
E-Tron, and despite being similar in size to the current A7 Sportback,
passenger space will be on par with the A8, thanks to the clever interior
packaging.
A possible rival to the likes of the
Mercedes-Benz EQS and BMW i7 (name unconfirmed), the A9 E-Tron is understood to
benefit from the latest electric drivetrain technology. It will also feature
autonomous driving and will have 5G connectivity, as well as augmented reality,
over-the-air updates and ‘car-to-x’ communication system.
The A9 E-Tron is believed to be an
extension of the Aicon Concept, which was presented at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor
Show. The study’s exterior dimensions placed it in the D segment, but the
wheelbase was actually longer than the A8’s. It also had blistered wheel arches
and huge 26-inch rims, and power came from the four electric motors that
developed a combined system output of 348 HP and 550 Nm of torque. The zero-emission range was between 434 and 497 miles
(700-800 km).
