Since production began in late 2023, the Audi Q6 e-tron series has become the first high-volume fully electric model line produced at Audi’s Ingolstadt headquarters. In alignment with its 360factory production strategy, Audi has seamlessly integrated key production steps into existing body shop and assembly processes. As of January 1, 2024, all vehicles manufactured at the Ingolstadt site, including the Q6 e-tron, are produced with net-zero emissions.
Battery Assembly Facility and Advanced Production
Audi’s commitment to sustainable production is exemplified by its state-of-the-art battery assembly facility. Spanning approximately 30,000 square meters, the facility employs 300 workers who, with nearly 90% automation, assemble up to 1,000 high-voltage batteries daily for the PPE (Premium Platform Electric) models. Located at the Logistics and Goods Transport Center (GVZ) in Ingolstadt, this facility runs entirely on green electricity, enhancing both flexibility and production efficiency.
Audi CEO Gernot Döllner said, “The PPE, and with it the Q6 e-tron series, form the basis for subsequent electric Audi models. In this way, we are taking a decisive step towards offering an electric model in all core segments in the medium term.” Audi Board Member for Production and Logistics Gerd Walker added, “By the end of the decade, we will have successively equipped all Audi locations for electric mobility. We are harnessing electrification to comprehensively transform our existing plants. With the production of the Q6 e-tron series, the Ingolstadt plant is taking the next step towards becoming a 360factory.”
Global Coordination for Electric Motor Production
Electric motors for the Q6 e-tron and other PPE models are sourced from Audi’s powertrain plant in Győr, Hungary—the world’s largest. The motors are manufactured on three new production lines and transported to Ingolstadt via zero-emission logistics. Audi has operated the Győr plant with net-zero emissions since 2020.
Efficient Integration of Existing Production Systems
Ingolstadt has integrated the production of PPE models into existing structures, including reusing over 600 machines and robots previously used for other Audi models. The body shop for the Q6 e-tron covers 148,000 square meters and employs 328 workers and 1,150 robots, with an 87% automation rate.
New automated guided vehicles (AGVs), totaling over 40 units, assist in material handling and parts supply across the facility. The Q6 e-tron models were efficiently incorporated into the same assembly line used for the Audi A4 and A5, through eight stages of modification.
Audi’s ongoing commitment to digitalization, sustainability, and resource optimization ensures that the production of the Q6 e-tron series, and all other vehicles at the site, continues to meet the highest standards of efficiency and environmental responsibility.
