Tesla may be enjoying the first-mover advantage, but other automakers haven’t be ignoring the California-based automaker. Audi in particular is reported to have plans for a full range of electric vehicles.
According to a Reuters article, Audi has drafted a map of high-performance electric cars to compete with Tesla as well as its German rivals if market conditions warrant it. The brand with the Four Rings may have devoted a lot of research and development to the upcoming electric R8 e-tron supercar, but it has lagged behind BMW (think of its “i” series) in a market segment where innovation is a major factor of consideration.
“Germany’s major carmakers all have their electric-car plans ready in the drawer. They want to be prepared when demand accelerates,” said Hanover-based NordLB analyst Frank Schwope, adding that the occasion could take 5-7 years.
Sources said one of the blueprints shows an electric version of the upcoming, Q8 SUV (which is expected to be a more coupe-like Q7) with a range of about 250 miles. The model would compete against Tesla’s rumored Model X.
Audi’s parent company, Volkswagen Auto Group, has declined to comment on the report.
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