The new Audi A2 E-Tron shares its platform with the Volkswagen ID.3 Neo.
The single-motor, rear-wheel-drive hatchback features a 61-kWh battery.
Audi projects an energy use of 12.8 kWh per 62 miles (100 kilometers).

The original Audi A2 ranked among the costly experiments from the late Ferdinand Piech and proved a major commercial disappointment. This overbuilt hatchback, complete with its aluminum construction and economical diesel power, proved too expensive to build and reportedly led the firm to lose thousands of euros on each unit sold. Interest never reached the levels Ingolstadt expected, which limited the distinctive hatchback to a five-year run that saw just 176,377 examples produced.

The A2 name is returning in a new form. Unlike its unsuccessful forerunner, the badge now applies to a rear-wheel-drive electric vehicle positioned as the most efficient Audi ever built. The Volkswagen Group has applied lessons from the past by basing the new electric hatchback on the recently introduced VW ID.3 Neo rather than creating it from scratch. This approach reduces costs and accelerates development, allowing the car to reach buyers faster.

Audi states it has taken extra steps to position the A2 E-Tron as an efficiency leader, matching the spirit of the earlier model, with energy consumption projected at a low 12.8 kWh per 62 miles (100 kilometers). Its drag coefficient of 0.24 makes it the sleekest body in the brand small-car range, though that figure requires the optional efficiency package.

Photo by: Audi

Aero Changes Lower Energy Use By 0.9 kWh Per 100 km

A diagram of the A2 E-Tron fully covered underbody shows multiple aerodynamic features, including a front-wheel deflector and several spoilers at each axle. Additional gap reducers and breathers sit ahead of and behind the wheels to cut turbulence near the wheel arches. Although no traditional grille appears, a large air inlet shutter opens when extra cooling is needed for the battery and electronics during hot weather, strong acceleration, or charging sessions.

Regarding the battery, the new A2 uses a 61-kWh lithium-iron phosphate pack. It supplies a rear-mounted electric motor rated at 188 horsepower. While Audi does not confirm other variants, the ID.3 Neo offers lower and higher outputs of 168 and 228 hp, suggesting similar options may appear.

Over 400 Miles Of Range Possible?

Although range figures remain undisclosed, the LFP battery supports routine charging to 100 percent without concerns over long-term capacity loss. It seems likely the A2 E-Tron will at least equal the ID.3 Neo range of 391 miles (630 kilometers) in the WLTP cycle with its larger 79-kWh battery. Thanks to the focused efficiency work by Audi engineers, the new A2 could surpass the 400-mile mark if it receives a larger battery than the 61-kWh unit confirmed to date.

The unusual camouflage, which conceals little, will be removed this fall. The A2 E-Tron will become Audi smallest and most affordable electric vehicle when sales begin in Europe by year end or in early 2027.

2027 Audi A2 E-Tron camouflaged prototype

Source: Audi

What do you think?

Motor1 Analysis: The Audi A2 E-Tron appears set to deliver an appealing small electric hatchback that draws on retro styling elements from the first generation, including the divided rear window. It should stand apart from a simple VW ID.3 Neo rebadge thanks to distinct styling and targeted efficiency upgrades.

It is refreshing to see a non-crossover model, given the current oversupply of SUVs.

Incoming Audi Models: