- An off-road-focused prototype of the Audi Q6 Sportback e-tron has been spied testing.
- The EV features a massive ground clearance, grippy tires, a roof rack, and a wide bodykit.
- It is not clear if the prototype will evolve into a rally car or a limited production model.
The Audi Q6 e-tron will soon gain a Sportback bodystyle derivative for fans of the coupe-SUVs, but it seems that the automaker has something even spicier in store. Our spy photographers spotted a camouflaged prototype of what appears to be a Dakar-ready Q6 Sportback e-tron, with extensive off-road modifications.
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The EV prototype could be described as the complete opposite of the road-focused RS Q6 Sportback e-tron we spotted a few months ago. The ground clearance here is massive, hinting at a completely revised chassis setup, while the alloy wheels are shod in chunky Toyo Open Country M/T tires, similar to what you’d expect from a Mercedes G-Class 4×4 Squared.
More: Audi Working On RS Q6 e-tron With Porsche Macan Turbo’s Electric Powertrain
The camouflage wrap covers the entire bodywork, but we can see that this Q6 e-tron features a unique bodykit. Rally-inspired wide fender extensions are combined with new front and rear bumpers and distinct LEDs at the front. The roof rack further contributes to the mean off-road looks.
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The rest of the design appears to be carried over from the upcoming Audi Q6 e-tron Sportback, including the configurable LED graphics, and the sloping roofline with the integrated spoiler.
The PPE-based Audi Q6 e-tron is available with all-wheel-drive dual-motor setups, and a large 100 kWh battery pack, which sounds fitting for an off-road build.
So what could be the purpose of this wild EV? The obvious answer is that it could serve as a concept, previewing the upcoming Q6 Sportback e-tron while celebrating Audi’s involvement with the Dakar Rally. Still, there is little purpose in making development prototypes of concept cars, making us think of two scenarios. Audi is either prepping a Q6 rally car for the 2025 edition of the Dakar Rally or is crazy enough to put this thing into production.
During the launch of the limited-production Q8 E-Tron Edition Dakar earlier this year, the company hinted at a more serious off-roader. Could this use the Q6 e-tron as a base? Only time will tell.
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