Audi unveiled an extreme off-road concept version of its Q6 e-tron, featuring a reimagined quattro system and specialized portal axles for enhanced climbing capabilities.
The concept vehicle — based on the premium electric SUV — borrows motors from the SQ6 e-tron while standing 16cm taller and 25cm wider than its standard counterpart.
While not slated for production, Audi suggests this concept hints at potential future offerings in the progressive off-road segment.
The vehicle’s portal axles, typically found in extreme off-road machines like the Unimog and Mercedes G63 4×4², enable it to tackle gradients up to 45 degrees. These specialized components shift the axle position relative to the wheel hub.
Technical Specifications:
- Peak torque: 9,883 lb ft (measured across all four wheels)
- Top speed: 108mph (limited)
- Ground clearance: 16cm higher than standard Q6
- Track width: 25cm wider than standard model
Audi’s engineers developed a new portal axle design that increases wheel torque by 50% — significantly more than the 20-30% boost typical of conventional portal axles. The concept delivers substantially more torque than the standard SQ6’s 631lb ft, available in 10-second bursts.
The concept demonstrates the capabilities of the PPE platform, which underpins not only the Q6 e-tron but also upcoming models like the Audi A6 e-tron and Porsche Macan EV.
“The Q6 e-tron offroad concept is a reinterpretation of quattro,” said Audi CEO Gernot Dollner. “The model shows the potential that our platform for all electric vehicles already has today. This vehicle can claim new ground. We look forward to seeing our customers’ reactions to this highly emotive car.”
The snow-themed concept follows Genesis’s recent unveiling of its GV60 Mountain Intervention Vehicle concept.
