Audi has revealed a plug-in hybrid version of its best-selling car on the Chinese market. The A6 L e-tron is a long wheelbase model that has been stretched by around 10 centimetres to give extra legroom for rear seat passengers. Long wheelbase cars carry a lot of status in China.
The big news for the rest of the world is the powertrain; it's a parallel hybrid system that pairs a 211hp 2.0-litre TFSI petrol engine with an electric motor putting out up to 95hp. Designed to offer zero emissions while driving in China's emerging megacities, the Audi A6 L e-tron concept can travel up to 80 kilometres at a constant speed of 60km/h in pure electric mode. The hybrid control module chooses the best suited operating mode with the combination of engine and electric motor offering over 300hp when called upon.
Visually the e-tron is differentiated from the standard A6 by new 21-inch alloys, a redesigned chrome grille, a bespoke rear diffuser in the bumper and a new exhaust system.
It is unlikely we will see the A6 L e-tron in Ireland as Audi has stated that the long wheelbase model is China specific, but the hybrid technology - shared with the recently launched A8 Hybrid - should trickle down to future e-tron models in Europe.