Audi Q6 to have 500km range thanks to next-gen batteries

Audi has announced it’s done a deal to buy state-of-the-art batteries from South Korean LG Chem and Sumsung to ensure its all-new, all-electric Q6 SUV will have a driving range of 500km.

Announcing the deal last night, the two high-tech battery cell suppliers will work side-by-side with Audi to ready its first ever pure-electric Tesla rival that’s been codenamed C-BEV.

Set to be revealed at the Frankfurt motor show next month, the concept will pave the way for the production Q6 SUV that’s expected will go head-to-head with the Tesla Model X when the Audi goes on sale in 2018.

Based on the recently launched Q7’s MLB Evo platform, the Q6 will lift its motor and 92kWh batteries from the R8 e-tron supercar, but instead of two rear-mounted motors the Q6 will benefit from an additional third motor encased within its gearbox.

With the third motor the production Q6 e-tron will generate even more power, and the concept is expected to have a combined total of 375kW/700Nm.

With expected widespread use of lightweight composites like carbon-fibre, the new Tesla rival is expected to hit 100km/h in less than four seconds and top out at a limited 250km/h.

As well as a state-of-the-art powertrain the next-generation Q6 e-tron is expected to have a fully autonomous driving feature to allow occupants to enjoy the big Audi’s next-generation infotainment system.

Speaking on the deal’s announcement, senior Audi board member Ulrich Hackenberg, said: “We will optimally integrate the innovative cell modules developed with LG Chem and Samsung SDI into our vehicle architecture, thus achieving an attractive overall package of sportiness and range.”