Audi continues to advance its electric vehicle lineup with significant hardware and software updates for key models, including the all-electric Audi A6 e-tron and Q6 e-tron, alongside their gasoline-powered A5, Q5, and A6 counterparts. Audi’s Chief Technical Officer, Geoffrey Bouquot, described the refresh as a "comprehensive innovation." Here is an overview of the latest improvements.
Driving enthusiasts will appreciate the enhancements to the sporty Audi S6 e-tron and S5 models, which now feature a new "dynamic plus" mode within the Audi drive select system. This mode sharpens responsiveness, delivering a more engaging drive.
In the S6 e-tron, the electric quattro all-wheel-drive system incorporates brake torque vectoring, enhancing driver control and delivering an intense driving experience. Additionally, the electronic stability control (ESC) switches to sport mode automatically, allowing controlled oversteer for spirited driving.
Efficiency gains include an improved regenerative braking system capable of bringing the vehicle to a smooth, complete stop without using the traditional brakes. This not only improves comfort but also recovers more energy, extending driving range.
Driver assistance technologies have also been enhanced for greater safety and convenience. The advanced adaptive cruise assist maintains lane position and supports highway lane changes by autonomously steering into adjacent lanes when the turn signal is activated and conditions are safe. In urban environments, traffic sign recognition detects speed limits, stop signs, and warnings such as uneven road surfaces, automatically adjusting vehicle speed accordingly.
Parking features receive a notable upgrade with the optional "Park Assist Pro," which now includes Reverse Assist. This function memorizes and autonomously navigates the last 164 ft driven, easing tight-space maneuvers. Maneuver Assist helps prevent minor collisions in cramped areas. Moreover, Trained Parking can save up to five separate parking routes, each up to 656 ft, on private property and execute them autonomously. A new smartphone feature allows managing garage parking without passing the spot first.
The Audi A6 e-tron debuts Digital Matrix LED headlights utilizing micro-LED technology to provide superior illumination and contrast, especially beneficial in adverse weather. These headlights can project lane guidance arrows on the road and display an ice warning symbol when conditions are slippery. Upon vehicle entry or exit, the lights perform a dynamic light show.
Each headlight contains 48 segments, while the digital OLED taillights feature 198 segments per side. Both front and rear lighting systems offer eight selectable digital light signatures, allowing drivers to customize the vehicle’s distinctive appearance within the e-tron lineup.
The cabin experience has been refined with a refreshed user interface that adopts simpler icons, inspired by the Audi Q3. Drivers can select from three layouts for the Audi virtual cockpit. Physical buttons return for some functions on the multifunction steering wheel, replacing certain touch-sensitive controls to enhance ease of use.
The vehicle’s AI capabilities have been boosted through integration with ChatGPT. The new voice assistant can comprehend vague commands such as "find an Italian restaurant with a river view," provide precise navigation, and manage calendar events and emails from connected work accounts.
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