By: Bloomberg , updated on: 21 September 2024, 08:27 am
In response to declining sales in China, Volkswagen AG plans to cut hundreds of corporate jobs and reduce costs by 20 percent globally.
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In response to a drop in sales in China, Volkswagen AG plans to cut hundreds of corporate jobs and reduce costs by 20 percent globally. The restructuring includes layoffs at its premium Audi brand and a reevaluation of personnel levels amid growing competition and market changes.
Volkswagen AG has begun cutting corporate jobs in China in a bid to reduce its overhead costs by up to 20 percent. The layoffs will affect hundreds of local employees at the group level. (Bloomberg)
Volkswagen AG has begun cutting corporate jobs in China as it aims to reduce overhead by 20 percent globally over the next three years.
Several hundred local staff have been cut at the group level, according to people familiar with the matter, as Volkswagen grapples with a persistent drop in sales in its biggest market. The company's premium Audi brand has separately cut staff numbers, the people said, asking not to be identified because the information isn't public.
The moves are part of a worldwide effort to reduce costs by 2026, a plan Volkswagen reiterated in August, the company said in response to questions from Bloomberg News, though it declined to specify the size of the layoffs.
Also read: China and EU trade officials in final talks on tariffs on electric vehicles
Volkswagen Group China “will make a significant contribution to this,” the company said in an email. Optimization efforts may also “include direct and indirect personnel costs” such as administration, travel and training, the company said, adding that it was too early to give a number as the effort was ongoing.
A consumer slowdown in China, as well as the market's accelerating trend toward electric vehicles, have left the former stronghold vulnerable for Volkswagen. In August, the company blamed the slowdown in China partly for a second-quarter drop in operating margin. Deliveries on the mainland fell 7.4 percent in the first half and slid 24 percent last year from 2019 levels amid stiff competition from local manufacturers such as BYD Co.
At its German home base, Volkswagen is considering shutting factories for the first time, Chief Executive Officer Oliver Blume said, as the environment in Europe has become even tougher with the arrival of new players.
Also read: US allocates $3 billion to boost EV battery production and counter China
The local cuts are being led by China chief Ralf Brandstätter and will happen in stages, the people said. Beijing’s recent move to raise the country’s retirement age had prompted Volkswagen to reevaluate its personnel levels and accelerate its job-cutting plans, they said.
Some employees were informed of the plan earlier this week, the people said. Some expatriate staff were being sent back to Germany and some mid- to high-level managers were being fired, they said.
See: Tata Curve review: Will it carve a niche for itself?
Overhaul of China
The corporate reform includes structural restructuring, digitisation of processes, streamlining of operations and localisation of certain functions, the company said.
“A significant part of the efficiency target has already been identified in recent months,” VW China said. “Further measures are currently under review.”
Volkswagen’s premium Audi brand, which has more than 700 employees, will be hit hard by the efficiency drive, the people said. A drop in Chinese auto sales as well as a growing shift toward EVs have hurt foreign luxury brands. Mercedes-Benz Group AG issued a profit warning on Friday amid a deepening slowdown in the world’s biggest automotive market.
Volkswagen China makes up a tiny fraction of the company’s 90,000 employees in China, most of whom are employed at its joint ventures.Bloomberg News reported this week that Volkswagen and its longtime partner, SAIC Motor Corp., are separately preparing to shut at least one plant because of a slump in demand for combustion engine vehicles.
The company's share of operating income from Chinese enterprises is expected to fall 20 percent to 2.62 billion euros ($2.92 billion) in 2023, and has dropped by almost half since 2015.
Take a look at the upcoming EV cars in India.
First Publication Date: September 21, 2024, 08:27 AM IST
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 31 Mar 2024, 13:52 PM
Audi hopes to see significant growth in India in 2024, while it also hopes the luxury car segment will cross the annual 50,000-unit sales milestone th
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Audi hopes to see significant growth in India in 2024, while it also hopes the luxury car segment will cross the annual 50,000-unit sales milestone this year.
Audi hopes to see significant growth in India in 2024, while it also hopes the luxury car segment will cross the annual 50,000-unit sales milestone this year. (REUTERS)
Luxury car sales in India could cross the milestone of 50,000 units for the first time ever in 2024, said Audi head Balbir Singh Dhillon in an interaction with PTI. His comment comes at a time when the demand and sales of luxury cars in the country have been growing at a fast pace. The luxury car segment in the Indian passenger vehicle market grew by an impressive 28 per cent in 2023, compared to 2022, with a record sales volume of around 48,500 units.
In 2023, Audi reported an 89 per cent growth in retail sales with 7,931 units, as compared to a total of 4,178 units registered in 2022. Mercedes-Benz, the segment leader recorded its best-ever yearly retail numbers in the country in 2023 with 17,408 units, posting a 10 per cent growth over 15,822 units recorded in 2022. The other German luxury car giant BMW sold a total of 14,172 units in India last year, combining the BMW and Mini models.
What’s fuelling growth of luxury car sales
The luxury carmakers hope the growth momentum in the Indian market will continue further owing to various factors. The aspirational young car buyers are increasingly focusing on luxury cars instead of mundane basic commuters and even mid-level cars. The plethora of advanced technology-aided features available in luxury cars is further fuelling this aspiration. Further propelling the growth in this space are factors like improvement of economic conditions, growth of disposable incomes and launch of a wide range of products. In 2024 as well, these factors will push the demand and sales of luxury cars, hope the carmakers.
What Audi India boss believes
Luxury car sales volumes in India currently account for less than two per cent of the overall annual passenger vehicle sales. Despite the gradual growth in this space, the market share has remained more or less at the same level for the past decade, as the overall passenger vehicle sales volume too grew at a proportional level.
Speaking about the growth opportunity of luxury cars in India in 2024, Dhillon reportedly said that as the sales grew by around 10 per cent and the disruptions in the global supply chain are not that massive, the industry could cross the 50,000 units sales mark for the first time ever in 2024. “Even if the sales grow by around 10 per cent and we do not face issues like disruptions like issues with global supply chain, we (industry) could cross the 50,000 volume mark in a year for the first time ever in 2024,” Dhillon reportedly said.
He also stated that the industry volume could reach a one lakh annual sales mark in future if the growth in the segment touches double digits. “This year if we cross the 50,000 unit mark and the growth continues to be double-digit in the coming years then we could see it happening,” Dhillon said further adding that the industry growth in 2024 may remain at a moderate level as compared to 28 per cent registered in 2023 over 2022. “This year we anticipate the industry to grow as well but not in high double-digit, maybe lower double-digit,” he added. The moderate growth projection is due to the supply chain challenges that have been hampering sales in the January-March quarter, he noted.
Audi’s plan for growth in India
Speaking on Audi’s focus areas for the current year, Dhillon stated that the luxury car manufacturer under Volkswagen Group aims to push sales further as it now has a very strong product portfolio in the country. “That is the first area and we are also looking to expand the sales infra of our pre-owned car business vertical. Last year we had 25 showrooms and by the end of this year we aim to take that figure to 30 outlets,” he noted. Besides that, Audi India is claimed to be focusing on customer-centricity and sustainable business this year.
By: Paarth Khatri | Updated on: 05 Jan 2024, 18:07 PM
Apart from reporting 89 per cent sales growth, Audi also launched three new cars and three new special editions in India.
File photo of Audi Q8 e-tron and Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron models.
Audi India has announced 89 per cent growth in 2023 as they sold 7,931 units in India. This is the highest sales figure since 2015. Moreover, in Quarter 4, the brand sold 2,401 units and reported 94 per cent growth. Audi Approved which sells pre-owned cars grew by 62 per cent in 2023. In 2023, the manufacturer launched three new cars – the Q3 Sportback, the Q8 e-tron and the Q8 Sportback e-tron. Apart from this, three limited edition versions of Q8, Q5 and S5 were also introduced.
The SUV range that consists of Q8, Q8 e-tron, Q8 Sportback e-tron, Q3 Sportback, Q5 and Q7 registered 174 per cent growth. According to Audi, one in every four customers is a repeat Audi customer. Apart from this, performance and lifestyle cars including the e-tron range grew by 40 per cent.
Audi India recently opened India’s first ultra-fast charging station in Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Mumbai. It is developed in collaboration with ChargeZone and it boasts an impressive, total capacity of 450kW, to deliver 360 kW of power to an electric vehicle and is enabled by a 500 amps liquid-cooled gun to ensure high performance and efficiency. The charging station also has a solar roof which further supports the other electrical requirements like lighting. The Audi Q8 55 e-tron with a 114 kWh battery (the largest battery on a passenger vehicle in India) can charge from 20% to 80% in just 26 minutes using this ultra-fast charger.
Mr. Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India said, “2023 marks another successful year for us and our diverse and desirable product portfolio continues to garner robust demand. We remain steadfast to an upward trajectory, instituting industry-first initiatives, and delivering unparalleled luxury experiences. Our retail footprint is expanding, culminating in the year-end with a total of 64 touch points (includes showrooms and workshops) and 25 Audi Approved: plus showrooms nationwide. We are confident that this momentum will carry into 2024. One in every four customers is a repeat Audi buyer and this tells us that we are on the right path. We will continue to focus on industry-best offerings for our customers and of course, bringing the very best products to India.”
India is one of the fastest-growing electric vehicle markets in the world. Over the last few years, both legacy players and EV startups have been drastically transforming the landscape of the Indian EV industry. Electric two-wheelers dominate the Indian EV market, but car manufacturers too are introducing interesting products. While homegrown car manufacturers have been launching new electric cars in the country, foreign brands are also bringing their respective products into the segment.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 23 Dec 2023, 20:42 PM
From mass-market to luxury, the year 2023 witnessed launch of several electric cars across price-segments, with SUVs dominating the chart.
In 2023, several carmakers, in both mass-market and luxury segments have launched some spectacular electric cars across different pricing slabs. Interestingly, like the fossil-fuel-propelled passenger vehicle market, the Indian electric car market is witnessing the rise of SUVs. In 2023, the majority of the electric cars launched in the country were SUVs.
Here is a comprehensive list of the electric cars that were launched in India in 2023.
MG Comet EV
MG Comet EV is the most affordable electric car in India. This small boxy hatchback looks tiny compared to other models in the fray, but a perfect machine for in and around-city commuting. MG Comet EV was launched in 2023 at an introductory starting price of ₹7.98 lakh (ex-showroom). The electric hatchback threw a tough challenge to the Tata Tiago EV, the erstwhile most affordable electric car in India with its pricing. Design-wise, the EV is eye-catching on the exterior, while inside the cabin it looks simple yet very much urban at the same time. The Comet EV promises a 230 km range on a single charge.
Tata Nexon EV facelift
One of the most noteworthy car launches in India in 2023 was the arrival of the Nexon EV facelift. Tata Nexon EV is the country’s bestselling electric car and the homegrown automaker simply ramped up the appeal of the electric compact SUV with the launch of the Nexon facelift, which incorporates a wide range of design and feature updates. The Nexon EV facelift comes available at a starting price of ₹14.74 lakh (ex-showroom), and it promises a 465-kilometre range on a single charge, while it can accelerate to 0-100 kmph in 8.9 seconds. It comes with V2V and V2L technologies.
Powering the electric SUV is a 66.4 kWh battery pack paired with dual electric motors.
BMW iX1
BMW launched the electric avatar of the X1 SUV, christened as iX1 in India in 2023. The luxury EV was launched in the country at a price tag of ₹66.90 lakh (ex-showroom). BMW iX1 is the German brand’s fourth fully electric vehicle and is sold in India via the CBU route. Powering the electric SUV is a 66.4 kWh battery pack paired with dual electric motors. The electric propulsion system churns out 309 bhp peak power and 494 Nm of maximum torque. The EV promises up to 440-kilometre range on a single charge. It can reach 0-100 kmph in 5.6 seconds and can achieve a top speed of 180 kmph.
BMW i7
BMW i7 is an all-electric sedan that was launched in India in 2023 at a price tag of ₹2.50 crore (ex-showroom). The BMW i7 M70 xDrive is the brand’s first M-division electric car that was launched in India in 2023. Powering this luxury electric sedan is a 101.7 kWh battery pack that is paired with dual electric motors and generates up to a 560-kilometre range on a single charge. The electric propulsion system churns out 657 bhp peak power and 1,100 Nm maximum torque. This electric sedan can sprint to 100 kmph from a standstill position in just 3.7 seconds at a top speed of 250 kmph.
Mahindra XUV400
Mahindra XUV400 is the homegrown automaker’s first-ever electric SUV launched in India in 2023. The Mahindra XUV400 comes positioned in compact SUV segment and it competes with rivals like the Tata Nexon EV. Launched at ₹15.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the Mahindra XUV400 is available in two different battery options and promises up to 456-kilometre range on a single charge. Available in EC and EL, the Mahindra electric SUV’s price goes up to ₹18.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
Citroen eC3
Despite being a new entrant in the Indian passenger vehicle market, French auto giant Citroen was quick to launch an electric car in the form of eC3. The electric SUV comes priced from ₹11.50 lakh (ex-showroom) and it promises a range of 320 kilometres on a single charge, which is also the highest in its segment. Available in four different variants, the Citroen eC3 EV is powered by a 29.2 kWh battery pack that promises 320 kilometres range on a single charge. The electric SUV promises a top speed of 107 kmph.
Volvo C40 Recharge
Volvo C40 Recharge is the second electric car in India from the Swedish luxury car manufacturer after the XC40 Recharge. The electric car was launched at ₹61.25 lakh (ex-showroom). The EV competes with rivals such as Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5. The EV gets power from a 78 kWh battery pack paired with dual electric motors. The EV churns out 402 bhp peak power and 660 Nm of maximum torque. The EV is capable of running at a top speed of 180 kmph and can sprint to 100 kmph from a standstill position in 4.7 seconds.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
Hyundai Ioniq 5 is the second electric car from the South Korean auto giant in the Indian market. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV has been launched in the country at ₹44.95 lakh (ex-showroom). The EV comes competing against the Kia EV6 but is more affordable than the rebadged sibling. Powering the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a 72.6 kWh battery pack, that promises a 631 kilometre range on a single charge. It gets a rear-wheel drivetrain churning out 214 bhp peak power and 350 Nm of maximum torque. The EV claims come with a fast charging technology that charges the battery from 10 to 80 per cent in just 18 minutes.
Audi Q8 e-tron and Sportback e-tron
Audi launched the Q8 e-tron and Sportback e-tron in India in middle of 2023. The SUV and the Sportback were launched together, priced at ₹1.14 crore and ₹1.18 core (ex-showroom). The Q8 e-tron essentially came as a facelifted iteration of the erstwhile e-tron. Both the SUV and the Sportback were launched in two trims – 50 and 55, with range of up to 600 kilometres on a single charge. Powering the 50 variant is a 71 kWh battery pack, while the 55 onbe gets a larger 114 kWh battery pack. The SUV has a maximum claimed range of 491 kilometres and 582 kilometres for the 50 and 55 variants, respectively, while the Sportback has a maximum range of 505 kilometres and 600 kilometres for the 50 and 55 variants, respectively.
Mercedes-Benz EQB
Mercedes-Benz India launched the EQB 350 4Matic electric SUV in India in 2023, at a starting price of ₹77.50 lakh (ex-showroom). The luxury electric SUV was launched in the country replacing the previous EQB 300 4Matic that was launched in December 2022. The EQB is powered by a 66.5 kWh battery pack. The electric propulsion system onboard the SUV promises 288 bhp peak power and 520 Nm of maximum torque. These specifications are significant enhancements from the EQB 300 4Matic.
Mercedes-Benz EQE
Mercedes-Benz EQE electric SUV was launched in India in 2023 after the EQS and EQB, joining the lineup as the brand’s third EV in the country. The Mercedes-Benz EQE electric SUV was launched here at ₹1.39 crore (ex-showroom). It competes with rivals like Audi Q8 e-tron and BMW iX1 electric SUVs. Mercedes-Benz EQE 500 4Matic SUV comes promising 550 kilometres range on a single charge. The SUV gets power from a 90.56 kWh battery pack that is paired with dual motors. The SUV can accelerate from 0-100 kmph in 4.9 seconds at a top speed of 210 kmph.
China’s Huawei Technologies has asked Mercedes Benz and Volkswagen’s Audi if they are interested in buying small stakes in its smart car software and components firm, according to three people with knowledge of the discussions.
By: Reuters | Updated on: 11 Dec 2023, 16:44 PM
The Huawei Aito M7 is the debut car model from the Chinese smartphone maker.
The move is aimed at expanding its partnerships beyond Chinese brands, they said. Huawei, the target of U.S. sanctions since 2019, also hopes the presence of foreign investors would help defend the business from potential further geopolitical tensions, according to one of the sources who was briefed on the matter.
The Chinese technology giant said last month it will spin off its four-year Intelligent Automotive Solution (IAS) business unit which is seeking to become the dominant supplier of software and components for smart electric vehicles (EVs).
Sources have previously said the unit will be valued at somewhere between $28 billion and $35 billion.
Huawei held preliminary talks with Mercedes in recent weeks, according to two sources. One source said the German auto brand was offered a 3% to 5% stake with the valuation to be negotiated.
But Mercedes was not that interested as it wants to remain in charge of its software to sustain its premium brand positioning rather than outsource it to a supplier, the source added.
Audi’s level of interest in Huawei’s offer could not be immediately determined.
However, two of the sources said Audi and Huawei are planning a partnership to develop autonomous driving technologies for Audi. Those technologies would be used in vehicles for the Chinese market from 2025 and which would be built by the German automaker’s venture with FAW Group.
The sources declined to be identified as the discussions were confidential.
Mercedes declined to comment on what it called speculation. Huawei and Volkswagen did not respond to requests for comment. The move by Huawei comes as global automakers in China increasingly seek to partner with Chinese companies, which have pulled ahead in developing high-end features for tech-savvy Chinese consumers. Volkswagen has been working with EV automaker Xpeng and autonomous driving chip designer Horizon Robotics to develop China-specific intelligent and connected electric cars.
Audi has also partnered with SAIC Motor to develop EVs in a segment for the Chinese market it did not previously have a presence in.
Richard Yu, who oversees Huawei’s smart car business, told a forum in April that it had been difficult for European, U.S. and Japanese companies to choose Huawei as their main supplier of intelligent solutions due to U.S. sanctions. “Therefore it’s a huge challenge because we have invested tremendously,” Yu said at the time.
While many of China’s most high-profile EV manufacturers like Nio and BYD rely on their own software, Huawei has formed partnerships with smaller electric car makers like Seres Group and some big older automakers like Chongqing Changan Automobile.
Changan Auto has said it will be an investor in Huawei’s smart car business once it is spun off, owning as much as 40% along with relevant parties.
Yu said in November that Huawei had invited Seres, Chery Automobile, Jianghuai Automobile Group and BAIC Motor to invest in the smart car firm and hoped FAW Group could join as well.
Dongfeng Motor is another potential investor in the firm, sources have said.
Audi India has announced complimentary Roadside Assistance (RSA) for its customers in Chennai in the wake of the floods caused by the ongoing Cyclone Michaung. The automaker said that the complimentary service will be available 24×7 across the Tamil Nadu capital and should offer peace of mind to owners. Audi owners in Chennai can reach out to the RSA team on these helplines – 1800-103-6800 or 1800-209-6800
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 05 Dec 2023, 19:00 PM
Audi India will extend its support to customers in Chennai through its RSA program | Image used only for representation purpose
Under the RSA campaign, Audi will offer 100 per cent coverage, on-site repairs, delivery of fuel and spare keys, travel or accommodation facilities; custody, transportation, storage and safekeeping of the vehicle as well as provision of specially designed towing platforms.
Speaking about the initiative, Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India said, “In light of the unprecedented challenges faced by the city of Chennai, we are making every possible effort to assist our customers in the city. I am optimistic that our Roadside Assistance service will promptly come to the aid of our customers, ensuring their safety and well-being.”
While Chennai had some respite from the rains on Tuesday, December 5, the city was still grappling with power cuts, large-scale waterlogging and disruption in mobile networks. Apart from Audi, Volkswagen India also announced its RSA services for customers in Chennai.
German luxury car manufacturer Audi on Monday launched the S5 Sportback Platinum Edition in India for the festive season. The limited edition model costs ₹81.57 lakh (ex-showroom) and will be offered in two colour options – District Green and Mythos Black. The model offers exclusivity combined with luxury and performance to thrill seekers and enthusiasts. This is the brand’s third special edition this festive season, after the special edition Q8 and Q5.
Audi S5 Sportback Platinum Edition is being offered in limited units for the festive season.
Exterior highlights:
The special edition model sports Matrix LED headlights with laser light technology that adds a touch of sophistication to the front fascia. The Black Styling Package with black accents on the grille, air intakes, Audi rings and window trim enhances the sporty appeal of the car. Red Brake Calipers with ‘S’ lettering and LED rear lights with dynamic turn signals further enhance the look.
Interior highlights:
Fine Nappa leather upholstery in Magma Red elevates the premium feel in the cabin of the Audi S5 Sportback Platinum Edition.
On the inside, the Platinum Edition model get Sports Seats Plus with massage functionality for comfort and luxury. Fine Nappa leather upholstery in Magma Red elevates the premium feel in the cabin while decorative inserts in carbon Atlas emphasize the sporty character of the vehicle. There are LED sills with S logo projection on the entrance of the front doors that illuminate the path when entering or exiting the vehicle.
Feature highlights:
There is an MMI system onboard the S5 Sportback Platinum Edition that offers intelligent free-text search and voice recognition functions. There is a fully digital 31.24-cm instrument cluster in full HD resolution. It comes with three customizable view modes: Sport, S performance and Dynamic. The MMI touch display allows easy integration of phone for navigation, music and third-party apps.
Engine highlights:
The car makes use of a 3.0-litre, TFSI V6 petrol engine with turbocharging and a combination of direct injection and indirect injection. It produces an output of 354 hp (260 kW) and 500 Nm of torque available between 1,370 and 4,500 rpm.
As the Audi A4 2021 gets ready for its debut in India, how much have things changed and how many of these changes are for the better? I got a test drive unit in the last few days of last year to find out if Audi’s big present for year 2021 is capable of carrying forward A4’s popularity in the luxury sedan segment and if it can indeed keep rivals mostly at bay.
And it was quite a revelation indeed. Let’s begin with the experience behind the wheel and behind the front seats.
Drive or be driven, A4 checks most boxes in bold font
The 2021 A4 is a facelift and we will come to the face and the lift in just a bit. Under the hood though is the debut of the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol motor in this car and it belts out 190 hp and has a tantalizing 320 Nm of torque. For those who may still be wondering, no, this Audi too has no diesel on offer.
A4 from Audi has proportions that blend a classy look with a sporty touch. (HT Auto/Sabyasachi Dasgupta)
Get inside and get it to the drive mode and it is amply clear – yet again – that here is a sedan with the ambitions of being even more sporty than what the numbers would suggest. There is a nice humdinger aura around the A4 as it makes its way forward on city roads, the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox working in tandem with the TFSI engine to deliver a constant stream of momentum.
And once the city skylines begin to fade, the promise of a more sporty drive begins to permeate.
Now the A4 has never really been the sportiest executive sedan around and the latest model isn’t too keen on going down this road either. But in the interest of offering something to he or she who may choose to drive it around, it does offer a bit more bang – Audi claims the new A4 can fire to 100 kmph in just a fraction over seven seconds and it is a claim with weight.
That A4 can sprint a bit is quite evident in the right drive mode but what it doesn’t lose out on while trying to be an Usain Bolt is its ability to also be Mo Farah. But does it really bolt to be called Bolt? Not quite. The sedan does have a sense of purpose around it but it won’t really win many drag races because it continues to prioritize balance over sheer speed thrills. Traction control on or off, it swerves ever so slightly when the pedal is slammed from standstill on a straight line, realizing a micro-millisecond later what it is being asked to do – run and run as hell.
Ideally, I would have liked a bit more feedback from the steering wheel at high speeds because it mostly remains rather muted once one picks up pace. It is well-weighted but lacks a bit of character.
No such complaints on the quality of the drive though as I remained firmly in the seats even when taking a sharp turn or a sudden U, with body roll to a minimum. The suspension is also typically Audi and the A4 gobbles speed breakers while letting in some of the bigger road craters at moderate speeds. And while suspension set ups in cars in this segment usually tend to be on the slightly softer side, the A4 could have ever so slightly gone a bit more towards the middle line.
Jump to the back seats though and it is a fine ride back home.
The recline of the rear seats are such that while the seating position is upright, it isn’t uncomfortable. A button for recline adjustment could have been great though. (HT Auto/Sabyasachi Dasgupta)
The rear seats are generous, plush and offer decent amount of space – for two. The space for legs and knees is commendable even if a tall driver is at the front, but the under-thigh support is just about adequate. The head room too is decent and the recline degree is such that even though you won’t be sitting uncomfortably upright, you will get breezy view of the surroundings. More on the cabin a bit later though.
For now, the style statement.
A4 gets botox treatment. And it works
The A4 is an executive luxury sedan and it is just great how the car has blended its stately looks with a profile that also appeals to those looking for something appealing. The 2021 A4 gets a number of visual updates but all of the changes appear to continue to enhance its bold-not-brazen exterior character.
The single-frame front grille is absolutely new – it gets a chrome boundary line and chrome horizontal slats – and is now wider than before, underlined by a reworked grille. The LED head light unit is also sleeker than in the preceding model and now integrates the pattern turn lights. There is a bit more chrome on the fog lamp enclosing while the bonnet now gets two stretched out character lines on either side and is more sculpted – almost curvaceous – than before.
The imposing single-frame front grille is the defining element of the new A4’s face. (HT Auto/Sabyasachi Dasgupta)
My test unit sat on 17-inch alloy wheels but there is an option to get a larger 18-inch set as well. With either option though, the A4 looks smart from the side and, somehow, has a more stretched out appearance. There are body lines on the side doors and the windows are decently large and enclosed in a chrome casing.
Interestingly, the door handles now pull slightly upwards rather than outright straight out. One major grouch here though is that the doors have to be almost slammed with a sense of impunity because a congenial push is going to set the (door ajar) alarms ringing – literally. This is the most annoying when seated inside and pulling the doors in.
Out and over to the rear is where the re-designed tail lights are at and the slight curve up over the boot lid, the chrome exhaust tips and the grey skid plate all add to a very attractive posterior.
The A4 sedan has a clean rear profile with chrome only at a minimal. (HT Auto/Sabyasachi Dasgupta)
Classic cabin chronicles
The cabin of the new A4 is actually where the bulk of the updates are at. Step inside to see how the car has stepped away from its predecessor.
The standalone 10.1-inch main infotainment unit is just what I want to see in every Audi car – yes, including the Q2 which has a toy-like 8-inch-screen – because it is just so a) vivid, b) responsive and c) great to look at. Frankly, I really don’t mind that there is no second screen for air-conditioning because the physical dials just below the touchscreen work well to ensure the three-zone climate control is simple enough to set and forget.
The standalone 10.1-inch infotainment system sits much like a crown on the dashboard of the new Audi A4. High-quality materials give the A4 a premium cabin appeal. (HT Auto/Sabyasachi Dasgupta)
Between the AC dials are a number of switches for functions such as selecting drive modes, auto ignition cut off, traction control, park assist and for proximity sensors. And still below is a 12V charging socket and a USB point. There is a storage space for a phone here but one can also make use of wireless charging in the space under the central armrest.
The center console itself is done well in black and piano black finish and while it can be a dust magnet, it looks really premium if well maintained. The gear unit is well within reach – not something I can say about the drive select button – and has the two cup holders as well as space to secure the car key.
Knick-knacks aside, the cabin is actually defined by the soft-touch materials all around – from the dash to the side doors, and the nicely cushioned seats come with high-quality stitching. It is just so important for a premium car to look and feel premium, and thankfully, Audi has not cut corners in this regard. Obviously, the front seats can be electronically controlled for position, recline and support, while the steering wheel can be manually adjusted for rake and reach.
Buttons and switches to electronically adjust front seats is standard in this segment of cars. (HT Auto/Sabyasachi Dasgupta)
The A4 also gets a regular-sized sunroof which can be electronically controlled to allow more light to flow in to mix and match with the beige upholstery in this review car unit.
The same sense of pleasing aesthetics continues over at the rear with the same level of premium quality on the side doors and seat cushioning. The floor hump is quite high which means the third person in the middle is going to struggle but three is often a crowd anyway. Two at the back won’t have anything much – except perhaps the lack of any AV unit – to complain about.
If packing in additional luggage emerges as a concern though, don’t fret. The rear seats fold down in 60:40 split for additional options in a near-flatbed layout. Just that these have to be done from within the cabin and there is no switch in the trunk which also misses out on a 12v charging point and instead, gets four luggage hook and a shopping bag hook to keep things in place.
The rear seats can be folded together or in 60:40 ratio for more luggage storage options. (HT Auto/Sabyasachi Dasgupta)
To buy or not to buy
The A4 from Audi has been a stellar performer for a number of reasons. It has pleasing visual aesthetics, a spacious cabin that is also premium and a drive attribute that is a nice balance between stately and sporty. Now, the 2.0 litre engine and the seven-speed automatic gearbox only go to add to the abilities of the A4. Add to it enhanced looks and updated cabin and there is no reason why Audi’s latest in 2021 shouldn’t make a whole lot of sense.
The only two points of note is a) pricing and b) rivals. The competing field is one that is packed with very capable performers as well, each making a solid claim to find a place in your garage. The much-acclaimed Mercedes-Benz C-Class, although slightly aged, and 3 Series from BMW have their own sets of strengths while the Jaguar XE is easily the most youthful of the lot, at least to drive. Then there is the new Volvo S60 that is ready for a March launch with the promise of more spunk in drive and the same mile-long list of safety highlights.
If Audi prices the A4 well, somewhere in the region of a starting tag of ₹42 lakh (ex showroom), it could once again become a disruptive force in its segment.
Audi has unveiled the interior design language of its upcoming EV SUV Q6 e-tron which comes as a screen-packed vehicle. The Q6 e-tron will be the brand’s first EV that will be built on its new Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture. The vehicle gets a total of three screens facing the passengers – an OLED gauge cluster, an infotainment touchscreen and one front-passenger dedicated touchscreen.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 04 Sep 2023, 16:23 PM
Audi Q6 e-tron gets a total of three screens – an OLED gauge cluster, an infotainment touchscreen and one front-passenger dedicated touchscreen.
The OLED gauge cluster measures 11.9-inch and the infotainment touchscreen measures 14.5-inch, while both these reside under a single curved bezel underlined by ambient lighting. Another 10.9-inch touchscreen is dedicated to the front-seat passenger, and has a way of blocking the driver’s view of its contents, per safety regulations.
The electric SUV gets a new Android-based infotainment software which gets a ‘self-learning voice assistant’. It responds to – “Hey, Audi.” and can learn a driver’s preferences gradually and even make suggestions. Coming to the optional head-up display (HUD), it comes with augmented reality.
When the SUV’s speed, navigation directions, or traffic signs are reflected onto the windshield, the HUD tilts forward their images to create the impression that they’re floating in front of the vehicle. Audi claims this helps reduce distractions, particularly in low-visibility situations.
Another interesting feature inside the Q6 e-tron is the customizable ambient lighting. The vehicle also has interactive lighting elements such as a welcome action and the ability to notify people when the vehicle is locked and unlocked. Other features include mimicking the turn signals and visualizing the EV’s charging levels.
The steering wheel is squared-off and is flat on the top and bottom and hosts a bunch of touch-sensitive controls. Coming to its exteriors, the Audi Q6 e-tron’s dimensions are said to be similar to that of the ICE Q5 SUV.
The Indian government has announced that it will lease 20 Audi bullet-resistant cars at the cost of ₹18 crore for the upcoming G20 Summit scheduled for September 9-10, 2023. The Press Information Bureau’s (PIB) fact check handle on X, formerly known as Twitter, confirmed the development. The Audi armoured cars will be used for the security needs of the foreign dignitaries who will attend the G20 Summit.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 26 Aug 2023, 18:52 PM
Delhi Police along with Traffic Police officials conducts a Carcade Rehearsals for the G20 Delegates ahead of G20 summit at Kartavya Path in New Delhi (Raj K Raj/ Hindustan Times)
India will host the G20 Summit for the first time, which will have leaders from over 20 nations in attendance. The cars will be used to ferry the visiting dignitaries over the two-day period. PIB Fact Check also clarified that the provision of bullet-resistant cars is a standard protocol procedure for all Head of State (HoS) and Head of Government (HoG) visits.
✔️ The Government of India has leased 20 Audi Bullet Resistant cars for 18 crores to accommodate the security needs of #G20 visiting Leaders. No cars have been purchased.
✔️Provision of BR cars is a standard protocol procedure for all HoS/HoG visits.
The G20 Summit will be held in New Delhi next month and is scheduled to take place at ‘Bharat Mandapam’ at the ITPO Convention Centre, Pragati Maidan between September 9 and 10. Apart from the ITPO Convention Centre, foreign dignitaries will be visiting other venues including Rajghat, IARI Pusa, and NGMA (Jaipur House). The guests will also visit the new convention centre at Pragati Maidan in the national capital.
This year’s G20 Summit is open for discussion on several important issues including advancing green growth and climate finance; promoting rapid, inclusive, and adaptable economic expansion, expediting progress towards sustainable development goals; navigating technological transformations and developing digital public infrastructure, reforming multilateral institutions to suit the 21st century and fostering Development under women’s leadership.
The G20 Summit comprises 19 countries including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, T¼rkiye, United Kingdom, United States and the European Union. The countries invited this year include Bangladesh, Comoros, Egypt, Mauritius, Netherlands, Nigeria, Oman, Singapore, Spain, and the UAE.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 28 Jul 2023, 15:10 PM
Audi Group has reported good performance in the first half of the year despite major challenges. Between January and June, the brand group delivered a total of 9,19,548 models. This consists of Audi, Bentley, and Lamborghini vehicles. This corresponds to an increase of more than 15.3 per cent compared with the previous-year period.
Image of Audi Q6 e-tron used for representational purposes only.
The Group increased its deliveries, particularly in Europe and the USA. Revenue grew by 14.4 per cent to €34.2 billion, with an operating profit of €3.4 billion. The sales of electric models also saw an increase of over 50 per cent as they delivered 75,647 electric vehicles. The Audi Q4 e-tron made the greatest contribution to this.
The manufacturer is planning to introduce more than 20 new models out of which more than ten will be fully electric. Audi is currently planning to launch the Audi Q6 e-tron. The electric crossover will be the first model to be based on the newly developed Premium Platform Electric or PPE. The platform is co-developed with Porsche and will be used for the Audi A6 e-tron and Porsche Macan as well.
The battery pack on the Q6 e-tron is expected to measure 100 kWh and will come equipped with two electric motors. It is expected that the max power output will be close to 500 hp in the top-spec version. The driving range on a single charge could be around 600 km and the battery pack would be able to charge from 10 per cent to 880 per cent in just 20 minutes using fast charging.
Watch: Audi Q8 etron: First drive review
In the Indian market, Audi will launch the Q8 e-tron on August 18th. It will replace the e-tron which was Audi’s first EV for India. Audi will sell the Q8 e-tron as well as Q8 e-tron Sportback in the Indian market. The Sportback is essentially the same model but with a sloping roofline with a better drag co-efficient figure.
