Audi has revealed a new electric off-road concept vehicle based on its Q6 e-tron platform, featuring innovative portal axle technology that significantly enhances its climbing capabilities.
The concept vehicle, which builds upon the company’s first Premium Platform Electric (PPE) production model, employs dual electric motors generating a combined output of 380 kW. Its most notable feature is a newly developed portal axle system that increases wheel torque by 50 percent, surpassing conventional designs that typically achieve 20-30 percent improvements.
The prototype sits 160 millimeters higher than the standard Q6 and features a 250-millimeter wider track, enabling it to tackle gradients of up to 45 degrees. While the modified drivetrain limits top speed to 175 kilometers per hour, the vehicle achieves a peak combined torque of 13,400 Newton-meters at all wheels.
“The Q6 e-tron offroad concept is a reinterpretation of quattro,” said Audi CEO Gernot Döllner. “The model shows the potential that our platform for all electric vehicles already has today. This vehicle can claim new ground. We look forward to seeing our customers’ reactions to this highly emotive car.”
The concept required significant engineering modifications, including the development of four new portal axles integrated into the wheel hub assemblies at both front and rear, along with adaptations to the suspension links.
Based on Audi’s Q6 e-tron production model, the concept builds upon the platform’s existing strengths in driving performance, charging capabilities, range, and efficiency. The company has not announced whether this off-road variant will enter production.
According to Audi, the vehicle represents the company’s aim of expanding its EV lineup into more specialized market segments, demonstrating how traditional off-road capabilities can be enhanced through electric powertrain innovation.
