Summary
- Audi Q8 E-Tron production will end on Feb. 28
- Uncertain if 2025 Q8 E-Trons will make it to the U.S.
- Audi’s EV lineup will continue with the Q4 E-Tron, Q6 E-Tron, A6 E-Tron, and E-Tron GT
- Audi Q8 E-Tron was an updated version of the original E-Tron
- Audi has multiple dedicated EV platforms for future models
Article
Production of the Audi Q8 E-Tron is set to end by February 28, marking the end of an era for the electric SUV that was a pioneer in Audi’s electric lineup. The factory in Brussels, Belgium where the Q8 E-Tron is built will be shutting down as Audi had been looking to sell the plant but was unable to find a buyer. This potential shutdown was first reported in November and confirmed in July, with the Q8 E-Tron possibly being discontinued.
The 2025 Audi Q8 E-Tron was already in the plans, with pricing announced by Audi for the upcoming model year. However, all vehicles currently in the U.S. inventory are 2024 models and it remains uncertain if any remaining production will be allocated to the U.S. for the 2025 models. The 2025 models were expected to have minor feature content changes and a $600 price increase to $76,095, including destination charges.
The Q8 E-Tron was only introduced for the 2024 model year, as an upgraded version of the original Audi E-Tron electric SUV. While it retained the E-Tron’s safety features, the Q8 E-Tron had improved handling and range. It was able to achieve up to 300 miles of EPA range in the Sportback version with the Ultra Package, but this option was to be discontinued for the 2025 models, resulting in a range of 272 miles.
Audi’s EV lineup will continue with other models such as the Q4 E-Tron, Q6 E-Tron, A6 E-Tron, and the E-Tron GT. While the Q8 E-Tron shared its platform with gasoline models, Audi now has dedicated EV platforms like the MEB platform for the Q4 E-Tron, the J1 platform for the E-Tron GT, and the PPE platform for the Q6 E-Tron and A6 E-Tron. It is likely that future Audi EVs will be based on the PPE platform, potentially including a replacement for the Q8 E-Tron in the future.
The decision to end production of the Audi Q8 E-Tron signals a shift in Audi’s electric vehicle strategy, focusing on newer and more advanced EV platforms. The automaker had been seeking to sell the Belgian plant where the Q8 E-Tron was produced, leading to the eventual shutdown of production. While the 2025 models were already planned with minor updates and a slight price increase, it remains uncertain if these models will be available in the U.S.
Overall, the end of production for the Audi Q8 E-Tron signifies a new chapter in Audi’s electric vehicle lineup, with a focus on dedicated EV platforms and advancing technology. The Q8 E-Tron, as one of Audi’s early electric models, played a key role in the brand’s transition to electrification. Moving forward, Audi’s EV lineup will continue to expand with new models utilizing advanced EV platforms for improved performance and efficiency.
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