New but not new: Audi changes (brings back) naming strategy
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Oh dear! Audi has had to make a complete U-turn on its naming strategy in just around a year. The German automaker had announced at the start of 2023 that its EVs would use even numbers and combustion engined cars would bear odd numbers.
However, Audi is bringing back a new nomenclature again which is… nothing but the comeback of its old naming style.
Revised Naming Structure
Under the reinstated strategy, model numbers will correspond to the car's size rather than its powertrain. To distinguish between different powertrains, Audi will append specific suffixes to model names:
- TFSI: Petrol engines
- TDI: Diesel engines
- TFSIe: Plug-in hybrids
- e-tron: Fully electric vehicles
As it has been happening with Audis, body styles will be clearly indicated with terms such as Sedan, Avant, or Sportback.
Implementation Timeline
The upcoming next-generation A6 will be the first model to adopt this revised naming system. Initially planned to be rebranded as the A7, the new A6 with combustion engines is set to debut on March 4. It will be offered alongside the fully electric A6 e-tron, maintaining a clear distinction between the two variants.
Rationale for the Change
Audi's decision to revert to its previous naming convention stems from the realization that the earlier strategy, which assigned even and odd numbers based on powertrain types, led to confusion among customers and dealers.
By returning to a size-based numbering system with clear suffixes denoting the powertrain, Audi aims to leverage on the existing brand value that cars with old naming had. A good decision, we like it!
What’s next for Audi?
While Audi had initially planned to transition to an all-electric lineup by 2033, the brand is now adopting a more flexible approach.
Another great decision in our opinion, as EV sales have lost a bit of steam with lack of public infrastructure and petrolheads willing to still buy ICE cars for as long as they can.
