Summary
- Audi commemorated the 25th anniversary of the A2 hatchback by converting one into an EV
- The Audi A2 E-Tron is a one-off project by apprentices, featuring a single electric motor and a 25.9-kwh battery pack
- The A2 received exterior modifications and shares similarities with newer Audi EV models
- The original A2 emphasized efficiency, but was not popular when new due to high prices and low gas prices
- Audi previously considered developing a smaller electric A2 city car, but it was canceled, with the Q4 E-Tron now being the smallest Audi EV model.
Article
Audi recently celebrated the 25th anniversary of its A2 hatchback by converting one into an electric vehicle (EV). The Audi A2 E-Tron is a unique project undertaken by apprentices at Audi, following a similar project where apprentices converted an NSU Prinz 4 into an EV concept to mark 150 years of manufacturing at the Audi plant in Neckarsulm, Germany. The A2 E-Tron is powered by a single electric motor from an Audi Q8 E-Tron, producing 197 hp and 261 pound-feet of torque. It features a 25.9-kwh battery pack from an Audi Q7 plug-in hybrid, providing an estimated range of 129 miles, with the potential to add a second pack for a total range of 248 miles.
The Audi A2 E-Tron concept underwent exterior modifications including smooth wheels, deleted door handles, and illuminated front and rear badges similar to other Audi E-Tron models. The vehicle is based on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) used for Audi’s newer upmarket EVs, contrasting with the original A2’s focus on efficiency and affordability. The A2 hatchback, released in 1999, was known for its aluminum bodywork, fuel-efficient gasoline and diesel engines, and sleek aerodynamic design with a low drag coefficient. Despite its forward-thinking features, the A2 was not as popular at the time due to low gas prices and high cost compared to other small cars in Europe, ultimately leading to its discontinuation in 2005.
Although the Audi A2 E-Tron concept pays homage to the original A2 hatchback, the automaker had previously planned a smaller, fully electric version of the A2 that was ultimately scrapped. The Audi Q4 E-Tron is currently the smallest EV in Audi’s lineup for U.S. markets, sharing the same MEB platform as the Volkswagen ID.4. While the original A2 failed to make a significant impact in the market during its production years, it has garnered a loyal fanbase over time. The A1, a less radical model, replaced the A2 as Audi’s entry-level model in Europe after production ceased.
The conversion of the A2 hatchback into an electric concept demonstrates Audi’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in its vehicle lineup. The use of components from newer Audi models and integration of advanced technologies showcase the brand’s evolution in the EV market. The A2 E-Tron concept serves as a tribute to the original A2 hatchback while showcasing Audi’s vision for future electrified models. Despite challenges faced by the original A2, Audi continues to explore new opportunities in the EV segment with models like the Q4 E-Tron, highlighting the brand’s ongoing efforts to adapt to changing market demands and consumer preferences.
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