Audi is within the means of growing a mid-cycle replace for its E-Tron and E-Tron Sportback electrical SUVs, and a prototype has simply been noticed.

The prototype is for the common E-Tron however related adjustments will function on the coupe-like E-Tron Sportback, prototypes for that are additionally out testing.

The E-Tron arrived in 2018 as a 2019 mannequin, with the E-Tron Sportback arriving one yr later. In Audi custom, we should always see the up to date variations arrive in 2022 as 2023 fashions.

The prototype factors to important styling tweaks coming, together with new headlight and grille parts much like what we see on the brand new 2022 This fall E-Tron and Chinese language-market Q5 E-Tron. The entrance and rear fascias, in addition to the aspect skirts, additionally seem to function a extra streamlined look.

There is not a shot of the inside however we all know the prototype for the E-Tron Sportback was fitted with a brand new infotainment display. Do not be stunned if the separate screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment within the present E-Tron are merged right into a single huge show for the up to date mannequin.

It is not clear what’s deliberate for the powertrains, although rumors level to huge adjustments right here. We may see new batteries, extra environment friendly electrical motors, and new digital management software program to assist increase vary. The E-Tron arrived with simply 204 miles of vary as measured by the EPA. Effectivity updates added for 2021 noticed the vary elevated to 222 miles. The mid-cycle replace is anticipated to extend the vary nearer to 300 miles. The E-Tron Sportback presently has an EPA-rated vary of 218 miles. It also needs to obtain one thing nearer to 300 miles with this replace.

Audi was comparatively early amongst established automakers to launch a reputable Tesla rival when it first rolled out the E-Tron. Nevertheless, to hurry up the gestation, Audi modified a platform initially developed for internal-combustion vehicles, particularly the high-riding model of Volkswagen Group’s MLB Evo platform shared with the Audi Q7 and Q8 and a number of different VW Group crossovers.

Ultimately, the E-Tron will likely be changed by a brand new Q8 E-Tron additionally serving as a successor to the present Q8. The Q8 E-Tron was confirmed by Audi in November and can begin manufacturing round 2026 on the similar Belgian plant the place the E-Tron is constructed. It is doable the E-Tron will already be renamed the Q8 E-Tron with this replace.

Different Audi EVs due within the coming years embody a Q6 E-Tron, A6 E-Tron, and a manufacturing model of final yr’s Grandsphere idea, which can simply exchange the A8. And past 2026, Audi will solely introduce EVs.