China‘s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) released details on the new audi E7X. This comes after the German automaker applied for a sales license, confirming the vehicle’s size, power, and potential to reach markets far beyond Asia, including Europe. The E7X is the second vehicle from the new, all-electric audi brand, a partnership between SAIC and Volkswagen.
The audi brand has dropped the famous four-rings logo known worldwide, hoping to carve out a new identity in the fast-moving EV segment. This strategy is supposed to separate it from the parent company’s existing lineup. The audi brand already sells one sleek wagon, the audi E5 Sportback, which uses technology from SAIC.
The new audi E7X commands attention simply because of its size. The SUV stretches to an imposing 16.57 ft long, measures 6.53 ft across, and stands 5.61 ft tall. Its 10.04 ft long wheelbase suggests a very spacious cabin, giving passengers plenty of room to stretch out. The largest, all-wheel-drive version weighs in at 5,893 lb. This large platform is designed to handle big power and advanced technology. The audi E7X shows off a large LiDAR unit mounted prominently above the front windshield. Buyers can also pick from large optional wheels, either 21-inch or 22-inch, to complete the impressive look.
The E7X offers drivers two choices: the rear-wheel-drive option uses a single electric motor that pushes out 300 kW, or about 402 horsepower. For those who crave more, the all-wheel-drive model truly delivers. It adds a second, powerful motor in the front, which contributes an extra 200 kW (268 hp). Together, these two motors give the AWD E7X a Total system output of 500 kW, or 670 horsepower. Both motors come from Huayu Automotive, a subsidiary of SAIC. Even with its weight and size, this SUV has a top speed of 143 mph.
The battery for the audi E7X will come from CATL. We don’t know the official capacity of the battery pack, but using a trusted supplier like CATL ensures the E7X will benefit from advanced cell technology. Key parts from Chinese partners like SAIC’s Huayu Automotive used for the motors reveal the model’s deep ties to Chinese manufacturing. The integrated LiDAR unit also suggests that the E7X will launch with hardware ready for future advanced driver assistance systems.
The big news is that this Chinese-built SUV is not destined to stay only in China. Reports suggest the audi E7X is considered for overseas markets, including Europe. The Volkswagen Group has already filed for the E7X trademark with the European Union Intellectual Property Office on December 2. Volkswagen openly states it plans to export China-made vehicles abroad, using the country’s manufacturing centers as a global hub. The company has even lobbied the European Commission to remove tariffs on China-made EVs – a request the EC is now reviewing.
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