Audi Q6 e-tron electric SUV gains high-tech interior with extra screen for passenger

In a constant drip-drip of teasers and sneak peeks, the new Audi Q6 e-tron electric SUV is being gradually revealed by the German firm. The latest details to emerge relate to the interior, where Audi’s new ‘human-centric’ dashboard puts the focus on passengers.

Audi says that the dashboard layout has been tailored to users’ needs with a three-dimensional, high-contrast design that places the elements of the dash either in the foreground or background. The cabin features what Audi calls a ‘Softwrap’ that extends from the doors and across the dashboard to the centre console, which is designed to create a sense of space.

A digital stage for the latest technology

The Q6 e-tron also features a ‘digital stage’ for the dashboard. It features a 14.5-inch central touchscreen display with OLED technology for high-resolution graphics, while 11.9-inch virtual cockpit dials are located ahead of the driver. The dashboard is curved towards the driver for ease of access, while the overall shape is inspired by the singleframe grille that has been a trademark of Audis in recent years.

The passenger also has a 10.9-inch display located in front of them. This will feature shutter technology which means it’s only visible to the passenger, so they will be able to watch video without disturbing the driver. It will also mirror some touchscreen functions, so that a passenger can program navigation routes on the go, for example.

Optional augmented-reality head-up display

One new piece of technology is the introduction of an optional augmented reality head-up display (HUD). While Mercedes offers virtual directions overlaid on an image projected to a car’s touchscreen, Audi’s set-up will project information on the inside of the windscreen like a conventional HUD, but the system has been adjusted so that it will appear to be ‘floating’ around 200 metres ahead of the car. This will help with navigation information, especially in poor weather, and Audi claims that the system works without adding confusion or distraction to the driver.

A new Interaction Light is fitted in the cabin too which can relay information to occupants. For example, it will pulse in time with the indicators, has a welcome light show and can also pulsate in time with charging. More LED lighting creates the illusion that the digital dashboard is floating separate from the rest of the dashtop.

The new Audi Q6 e-tron has a sustainability message, too. Renewable and recycled materials are used for parts of the car’s cabin, starting with Econyl – a fabric material that makes use of old fishing nets, carpets and industrial waste – which features in the Q6’s floor mats.

Elsewhere, S line trim features a 100 per cent recycled polyester called Elastic Melange for the Softwrap section. This is also available as an option on the seats themselves, and the car’s headlining can also be specced in the same material. Dinamica microfibre cloth features on certain trims, which is also made from recycled materials, although Nappa leather is still offered as an option.

First car on the PPE underpinnings

The new Q6 e-tron is the first car to use the Volkswagen Group’s ‘PPE’ electric car platform, and this new running gear promises to maximise interior space as a result. There’s plenty of storage in the cabin, with deep bins on the centre console, while a flat floor offers equal foot space for all three back-seat occupants.

Audi says that the boot holds 526 litres, growing to 1,529 litres with the 40:20:40 split seatbacks folded flat. In addition, there’s space in the nose for a 64-litre ‘frunk’, which will be enough room to store a charging cable, so it can be kept separate from luggage.

While the latest details of the Q6 e-tron focus on its interior, more images of the car’s exterior have also been released. While still hidden by pale grey graphics, it’s clear that the Q6 will be similar in size and shape to premium electric SUVs such as the BMW iX3, Tesla Model Y, Mercedes EQC and Lexus RZ.

It’s expected that the Q6 e-tron will be unveiled in full before the end of 2023 ahead of UK sales starting in early 2024.

Related articles

• If you found the interior of the new Audi Q6 e-tron interesting, you may also like to check out all the car makers’ electric vehicle plans
• You might also be interested in a review of the updated Audi A8
• Make sure you check out the massive Audi Urbansphere concept car

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