Audi shifts the combustion engine-which means for A1, Q2 & Co.

Audi boss Gernot Döllner moves from the exit to 2033: petrol and diesel engines should at least Run by 2035 - if necessary, even longer, depending on the demand and the legal situation.

Why the U -turn?

• Flexibility instead of solid deadline: Audi wants to serve markets in which electric cars are not yet suitable for mass.

• Uncertain EU rules: If the 2035 sales ban comes, it only applies to the EU-burners remained outside.

• Slightly weakening e-business: Q8 e-tron painted, other Stromer grow by 30 %, but are still behind BMW.

These models fly out

• A1 and Q2 Do not get successors; In the future, A3 and Q3 will be introduced.

• The Q8 e-tron has already been set.

• Sporty S/RS variants should survive as plug-in hybrids to meet CO₂ specifications.

So the portfolio remains set up

• New A5, A6 and Q3 Secure the combustion segment.

• A cheap one Entry-level In the A3 format, price-conscious buyers should attract.

• Continue to rank A8, Q7, Q8 - a possible Q9 could follow.

Industry in reverse
Mercedes also softened its electric destination, BMW always stated in the technology mix. The German premium manufacturers now rely on parallel strategies instead of pure electrical requirements.

outlook
This means more selection for buyers - especially those who are still tied to the classic drive. In the long term, however, it remains open how strictly the EU regulation 2035 is. Audi keeps all the paths open with the new strategy.