09:10 19-03-2026

Audi plans new A1 e-tron as affordable electric vehicle

Audi may launch the A1 e-tron, a compact electric car, around 2029-2030. It could be the brand's most affordable EV, targeting Europe's growing market.

Audi is considering launching a new compact electric vehicle, which could be named the A1 e-tron and become the most affordable model in the brand's lineup. This project is directly linked to the new M1E category in the EU, designed for small electric vehicles up to 4.2 meters in length. Such models offer manufacturers additional bonuses in emissions calculations, making this segment particularly attractive from a strategic standpoint.

The potential production site could be the SEAT factory in Martorell, Spain, where the CUPRA Raval and Volkswagen ID. Polo are already planned for production. This would help reduce costs through platform sharing and localization. The A1 e-tron is expected to debut around 2029–2030. Audi's management has not officially confirmed the project but acknowledges its possibility, stating that the company is exploring all segments—from entry-level to sports models.

Currently, Audi is focusing on the A2 e-tron, which belongs to a larger class. However, a compact electric vehicle could become a key tool for boosting sales and attracting new customers.

In this context, reviving the A1 in electric form appears to be a logical move, allowing Audi to establish itself in Europe's rapidly growing affordable EV market.