Audi recently made headlines with news that it planned to overhaul the naming system for its vehicle lineup. The German luxury automaker intended to distinguish its growing fleet of electric vehicles (EVs) from its traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) models. However, Audi has now reversed course and will stick with its current naming conventions.
The Original Plan
Under the proposed scheme, Audi's EVs would adopt the name of the next-higher gas-powered model, along with the "e-tron" designation. The idea was to simplify Audi's naming system while clearly differentiating its EVs. For example:
- The Q4 e-tron would have been renamed as the Q5 e-tron
- The upcoming Q6 e-tron would have launched as the Q7 e-tron
- ICE models would then shift up a number so that the gas-powered Q5 would become the Q6
Sticking with Tradition
Audi has now confirmed the company will abandon this renaming strategy. The automaker will maintain its existing naming structure for both EVs and ICE vehicles for the foreseeable future.
Although the reasons for the reversal haven't been made public, it speculated that potential customer confusion could be the cause. Longtime Audi owners are very familiar with the current naming logic, so disrupting it risks alienating brand loyalists.
Another potential factor may have ben internal resistnace. Marketing and dealership staff would need to be retrained, and promotional and informational materials would need updating. The costs and headaches may have outweighed any benefits.
Audi's Commitment Remains Strong
At Audi Tysons Eatontown, we're proud to offer a wide selection of the latest Audi models, including plug-in hybrids and fully electric vehicles. Visit our dealership today to experience everything Audi has to offer.
