Audi has officially walked back its ambitious plan to become an all-electric brand by 2033, citing slower-than-expected consumer demand for EVs. CEO Gernot Döllner confirmed that the company will continue developing combustion and hybrid engines for at least the next 7–10 years, signaling a strategic pivot in response to real-world market behavior rather than internal targets.
This shift is reflected in the upcoming next-gen RS6, which will now launch in 2026 with two versions: a V8 plug-in hybrid and a fully electric RS6 E-tron. The hybrid variant will pair Audi’s 4.0L twin-turbo V8 with an electric motor for a combined output around 730 horsepower, while the EV model—built on the PPE platform—is expected to offer similar or slightly lower performance. Both sedan and wagon body styles are planned, marking the RS6’s return to broader format options.
By keeping the V8 alive alongside its electric push, Audi is hedging its bets in a cooling EV market, offering flexibility for customers who still prefer traditional performance powertrains. It’s a clear sign that even major legacy automakers are reassessing how fast and how far consumers are willing to transition.
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