In a surprising move, Audi has stopped plans to overhaul its EV and ICE vehicle naming systems. The luxury automaker had previously announced intentions to adopt a new alphanumeric system. This included both electric and internal combustion engine models (ICE). However, Audi is now abandoning those plans and sticking with its current naming conventions for both EV and ICE vehicles.
Audi's Current EV and ICE Vehicle Naming Systems
Presently, Audi uses different naming conventions for its electric and internal combustion engine models. EVs are designated with the "e-tron" label followed by a model name, such as e-tron GT. ICE vehicles use a letter-number combination, like A3 or Q5. These letters signify the vehicle category, and the number indicates the model's position in the hierarchy.
Under the proposed but now scrapped system, Audi would have adopted a two-number system for both EVs and ICE models. The first number was to represent the vehicle category while the second would indicate the power output. Additional letters would specify the drivetrain, with "e" denoting electric vehicles.
Reasons Behind Audi's Decision to Reverse Course
After further consideration, Audi determined that its current EV and ICE naming systems are already well-established and understood by consumers. Making a major change now that would affect both electric and ICE models would only risk creating confusion for customers both new and old. The rapid growth of the EV market and fierce competition from rival brands may have also factored in Audi's decision.