Audi was supposed to change a number of model names. But because customers hate it, the German brand is leaving the current names behind.
Audi is now dropping the brand's recently introduced car naming strategy. The idea was to further differentiate combustion engine models from electric cars by using A and Q terms followed by even and odd numbers.
But now Audi is regretting it after feedback from both customers and dealers that was more confusing than clear about a new system.
This is what Autocar writes.
The original plan was for diesel/petrol models, including plug-in hybrids, to be assigned odd numbers: 1, 3, 5, 7. Electric models, on the other hand, were to have even numbers: 2, 4, 6, 8.
Audi's then-Chief Technology Officer, Oliver Hoffmann, who has since been fired, justified the approach at the time as a way to create a "clear and intuitive difference" between the different powertrains.
This led to notable changes in model naming. For example, the new A4 with combustion engine was renamed A5, while the A6 with similar petrol and diesel engines should have become A7.
The latter, which was supposed to be presented to the public next month, will instead keep its name – A6.
The electric variant will be called e-tron, and the ICE car will be called TFSI or TDI depending on the fuel. That's what Audi will present instead on March 4th.
Audi has confirmed to Autocar that, unlike the A6/A7, the brand has no plans to change the names of the new A4 and A5, even though the two cars are in reality the same car with different engines.
This is because the numerical sequence from 1 to 8 in the revised system indicates the vehicle size and hierarchy internally within the model program, regardless of engine size and fuel.
The A5 is a larger car than the A4 in terms of dimensions. Audi states that existing models such as the electric Q4 and Q6, which are already on the market, will continue with their names.
Audi models also continue to call their cars something with letters and numbers. "A" is the traditional passenger cars, while "Q" is the SUVs. Just like we know it.
Audi explains that it was clear that the new system did not make sense for customers, and that they are now going back to something that is just a little better.
"The decision was made after extensive discussions and is in line with the preferences of our customers and the international dealer network," says Marco Schubert, Audi board member responsible for sales and marketing.
– Our updated naming method ensures a more intuitive understanding of our range, making it easier for customers around the world to navigate our model program.
