Audi hybrid models are seen as a stop-gap between full-petrol or -diesel engines and the introduction of full-electric Audis in the future, says Audi boss Rupert Stadler
Audi Q7 e-tron Quattro (Image: Audi)
Hybrid and plug-in hybrid technology will only be a “bridging technology” for around ten years, according to Audi CEO Rupert Stadler, until full electric driving becomes more mainstream.
“Hybrid and plug-in hybrids are a transitional and bridge technology for about the next ten years,”
said Stadler, who said he expected electrified cars, including hybrids, to account for 20-25% of all sales by 2025.
“In parallel we will offer various battery-electric models in different volume series models until 2025. But, of course, only the customers can decide the sales mix between electrified and conventionally-engined vehicles.”
Audi has already committed to produce its first fully electric SUV, the Audi Q6 e-tron, with a range of 500km (310 miles) from 2018. It will be built at a new factory in Belgium, alongside Audi’s battery plant that will produce batteries developed with its partners, LG and Samsung.
Read more: Autocar