Optimized driving dynamics thanks to new steering and torque distribution

Most of the systems and components belonging to the chassis of the Q6 e-tron model series are new developments. Experts tune them in line with the familiar Audi DNA in order to create a high level of emotionality and the premium experience typical of Audi.

The newly designed front axle has a significant influence on the driving dynamics of the Audi Q6 e-tron. For the first time in an Audi model, the control arms are arranged in front of the suspension arms in the direction of travel. In addition to the advantages in terms of driving dynamics via the axle kinematics, this results in an improved package benefiting the position of the high-voltage battery. The refined axle kinematics provide noticeably more driving dynamics and also improve the steering behavior. The steering rack is now firmly bolted to the subframe. This makes the vehicle significantly more agile. The design of the steering and its control by means of new software modules in conjunction with the new front axle enable agile handling and provide the driver with significantly improved feedback on the current driving and road conditions at all times via the steering wheel.

The rear tires of the Audi Q6 e-tron are wider than the front tires - for even more grip and driving dynamics. The rear-biased power delivery with a highly variable all-wheel drive torque distribution also enhances the driving dynamics of the Audi Q6 e-tron. The different dimensions of the electric motors on the front and rear axles enable rear-biased torque distribution even under full load.

With the new passive damping system FSD (Frequency Selective Damping), the Audi Q6 e-tron grips the road even more firmly. More damping is required to offer greater ride comfort in certain driving situations, for example on cobblestones. During dynamic driving maneuvers, the system adapts accordingly and thus controls the movement of the vehicle’s body. The adaptive air suspension - the air suspension with controlled damping – compensates for the load via the level control and thus ensures the vehicle remains level under different load conditions.

The HCP1 regulates the operation of the dampers individually for each wheel every millisecond – depending on the road conditions, the driving style and the mode selected in the Audi drive select dynamic handling system. Electromagnetic damper valves control the flow of the hydraulic fluid. The optional electronically controlled adaptive air suspension with continuously adjustable damping system on all four wheels automatically regulates the vehicle height and damping. This gives the electric SUV a very high level of ride comfort on the one hand, but also offers enhanced driving dynamics on the other.

Various modes, including level control and manual lift function on all four wheels and lowering function on the rear axle, are set via Audi drive select. Depending on the mode selected, the air suspension is lowered by up to 20 millimeters (0.8 in) depending on the speed.

In off-road mode, the air suspension is raised by up to 28 millimeters (1.1 in). Up to 45 millimeters (1.8 in) are possible using the lift function. The ability to lower the rear (minus 50 millimeters (2 in) at the rear axle, activated by a button in the luggage compartment) makes access to the luggage compartment and coupling a trailer easier. The normal level of the adaptive air suspension is 28 millimeters (1.1 in) lower than the standard comfort suspension.

Always ready to assist - the driver assistance systems

As far as the driver assistance systems of the new Audi Q6 e-tron are concerned, Audi provides a wide range of functions that significantly improve everyday driving and road safety for all road users. A first for the Audi Q6 e-tron is the adaptive driving assistant plus. This supports the driver when accelerating, braking, maintaining speed and the set distance from the vehicle in front, as well as with lane guidance. This can increase driving comfort, especially on long journeys. The system uses various sensors to permanently monitor the vehicle's surroundings. These include the radar sensor installed in the front of the vehicle, the front camera, and the ultrasonic sensors. Depending on the region, high-resolution map data and swarm data from other vehicles calculated in the cloud are also used to improve driving behavior. From a fusion of this information, the vehicle calculates the route ahead and guides the vehicle comfortably and in the center of the lane by means of supportive steering interventions. At the same time, the system reacts to vehicles joining the same lane in front and regulates the distance to them. It also anticipates and adapts the vehicle speed to speed limits and situations such as bends, junctions, traffic circles and ramps (highway entrances and exits). In stop-and-go traffic, the system slows the car to a standstill and can automatically set off again depending on how long the vehicle has been stationary. At stop signs, the speed is reduced to comfortably allow the driver to take over the situation. Thanks to the large number of parameters included, the adaptive driving assistant offers the most comfortable driving experience possible across the entire speed range and in traffic jam situations. Functional content may vary depending on country availability and vehicle configuration.

In addition to the above-mentioned standard features, customers in Germany and Europe receive further functions such as exit warning, lane change warning, rear cross traffic assist, rear turn assist. Traffic sign recognition and the traffic sign-based speed limiter are also standard due to GSR and EuroNCAP.

Customers have the option of further assistance systems within various equipment packages as well as an assistance package protection and warning systems plus. The tech equipment package offers attractive features that increase comfort and digital connectivity. Selected assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, support the driver by maintaining the set speed and the distance to the vehicle in front. Highlights include the LED headlights plus and the Driving and Parking assistance package with surround-view camera. Tech plus includes new and proven features for more driving enjoyment, safety, and comfort. Highlights include the Matrix LED headlights and the MMI passenger display. The Tech pro package includes the adaptive air suspension and the Adaptive Driving Assistant plus described above.

In addition, customers also get relief and comfort in everyday parking situations, as the parking assistant plus helps them to park and unpark the Q6 e-tron. The electric SUV takes care of steering, accelerating, braking, and shutting off the motors. Park Assist plus is activated via the MMI; users must constantly monitor the parking process so that the Q6 e-tron brakes when obstacles are detected within the system limits. If obstacles are detected within the system limits, the system brakes automatically. The system can park and unpark in parallel and perpendicular parking spaces between vehicles both forwards and backwards. With the four optional surround cameras, the Q6 e-tron offers a comprehensive view of the vehicle's surroundings, making it easier to park and maneuver even in tight parking spaces or driveways.

The emergency assistant increases safety by recognizing when drivers are inactive within the system limits. If the driver is inactive, the assistant reacts visually, acoustically, and haptically with brake jolts and switches on the hazard warning lights. If there is no reaction from the driver, the system keeps the Q6 e-tron in its own lane and automatically brings the vehicle to a standstill. The occupant protection measures, such as tightening the seat belts to optimize the seating position, are gradually activated. After coming to a standstill, the Q6 e-tron is prepared for the rescue of the people sitting in the vehicle and an automatic emergency call is made by the emergency assistant, depending on the country.

The front turn assist can prevent a collision with an oncoming vehicle at speeds of up to 25 km/h by applying the brakes. The assistant is activated when the driver switches on the turn signal. The turning assistant monitors the oncoming lane and applies the brakes if necessary. The driver is informed in the instrument cluster. The same applies to the rear turning assistant: This also provides support when turning into junctions, slip lanes or entrances to yards and garages by warning of cyclists or drivers approaching from behind. Upon detection, a display lights up in the respective exterior mirror. When leaving a parallel parking space, the Rear Turn Assist also operates from a standstill.

The swerve assist helps to avoid an obstacle. If the driver does not actively avoid the obstacle after an acute warning, the evasion assist in the Q6 e-tron provides support by selectively braking and applying a small amount of steering torque to correct the steering angle. The swerve assist is available in the speed range between 30 and 150 km/h and requires active steering during the entire maneuver.

In critical situations, the front emergency brake assist provides significant support. If a child suddenly runs into the road or the vehicle in front brakes abruptly, the Q6 e-tron also brakes automatically. The SUV detects pedestrians in a speed range of up to around 85 km/h and vehicles up to its maximum speed. If an imminent head-on collision is detected, the system warns the driver visually, acoustically and haptically in a multi-stage concept and, if necessary, applies brake assist or emergency braking to reduce speed or avoid the collision.

The cross traffic assist at the front detects critical cross traffic in front of the Q6 e-tron and warns the driver visually and acoustically. Up to a speed of 10 km/h, it triggers a short brake jolt if necessary. Cross Traffic Assist Crossing Assist is active up to a speed of 30 km/h. The parking button can be activated if the driver wants to approach a junction or exit that is difficult to see at low speed. This transmits the images from the surround-view cameras to the 14.5-inch MMI touch display. They significantly expand the field of vision. Drivers can choose between different views.

The rear cross traffic assist can warn of a possible collision with approaching cross traffic when reversing. The system uses the radar sensors to monitor the area to the rear and side of the vehicle within the system limits when reversing out of a parking space. Approaching moving objects such as cars and cyclists are detected. The system warns the driver visually in the parking view in the center display and can also give an acoustic warning when reversing and, in situations recognized as particularly critical, can also apply the brakes.

The exit warning warns of a possible collision with detected traffic approaching from behind when the door is opened while the vehicle is stationary. The system uses radar sensors to monitor the rear and side of the vehicle within the system limits. Moving objects approaching from behind, such as cars and cyclists, are detected. If the door opening lever is pulled and another road user classified as critical is approaching, the warning strip in the door and the LED display on the exterior mirror on the affected side light up. At the same time, the opening of the door is briefly delayed and an acoustic warning signal is emitted.

The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.