China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has released details of the new AUDI E7X after the German automaker applied for a sales license. This move confirms the vehicle’s size, power, and potential to reach global markets beyond Asia, including Europe. The E7X is the second vehicle from the new all-electric “AUDI” brand, a joint venture between SAIC and Volkswagen.
Imposing Dimensions and LiDAR Technology
The brand has abandoned its famous, globally recognized four-ring logo to establish a new identity in the rapidly evolving EV segment. This strategy aims to distinguish the new brand from the parent company’s existing product line. The brand already sells the AUDI E5 Sportback, a stylish station wagon featuring SAIC technology.
The new AUDI E7X stands out for its size alone. The SUV measures 5.05 meters long, 1.99 meters wide, and 1.71 meters high. Its long wheelbase of 3.06 meters promises passengers a spacious interior. The largest all-wheel-drive version weighs 2,673 kg (6,770 lb).
This wide platform is designed to accommodate significant power and advanced technology. The E7X features a large LiDAR unit prominently mounted above the windshield. Buyers can choose from large optional 21-inch or 22-inch wheels to complete the impressive look.
The E7X offers drivers two different engine options:
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): It uses a single electric motor and produces 300 kW (approximately 402 horsepower).
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): For those seeking even more performance, a second powerful motor is added to the front, contributing an additional 200 kW (268 hp). Together, these two motors give the AWD E7X a total system output of 500 kW (670 hp).
- Both engines come from Huayu Automotive, a subsidiary of SAIC. Despite its weight and size, the SUV’s top speed is set at 230 km/h.
The AUDI E7X’s battery will be supplied by Chinese battery giant CATL. The official capacity of the battery pack is not yet known, but a reliable supplier like CATL will ensure the E7X benefits from advanced cell technology. Key components for the motors, sourced from Chinese partners like SAIC’s Huayu Automotive, highlight the model’s deep ties to Chinese manufacturing. The integrated LiDAR unit also suggests the E7X will be ready for future advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
The biggest news is that this Chinese-made SUV won’t be limited to China. Reports indicate that the AUDI E7X is being considered for overseas markets, including Europe. The Volkswagen Group even filed an application for the E7X trademark with the European Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) on December 2nd. Volkswagen has made it clear that it intends to export vehicles manufactured in China, using its Chinese production centers as a global hub. The company even lobbied the EU Commission to remove tariffs on Chinese-made EVs, a request currently being reviewed by the EC.
