German luxury carmaker Audi can drive in electric vehicles (EVs) into the Indian market by 2020, provided there is development of charging infrastructure in the country by then, a top company official informed ET.
The company, which launched a new version of its premium SUV Q5 in India priced up to Rs 57.6 lakh (ex- showroom Delhi, is also looking to expand its conventional product range going ahead.
“Globally Audi will launch three EVs until 2020. We will be ready to launch a EV in 2019-2020 in India but for that charging infrastructure needs to be there,” Audi India Head Rahil Ansari told PTI. He added that a clear road map is required for the segment including the development of charging infrastructure across the country.
“The introduction of EVs will depend in terms how far the infrastructure has developed. If the infrastructure is ready we will make a decision of launching in India otherwise we will have to delay it,” Ansari said. The years are not important but the readiness is more important, he added.
Globally by 2025, Audi is looking to have 30 per cent of its sales to come from electric vehicles. It plans to introduce one EV model each year starting 2020. Commenting on the new Q5, Ansari said that the model now comes with a lighter body, a new design language and a host of new infotainment and innovative features.
“The all new Audi Q5 is the best vehicle available for our customers who want to enjoy driving whether it is on- or off-road,” he added. The second generation Q5 now comes with enhanced fuel efficiency, more power aided by reduction in overall weight of the vehicle. It also comes with features like seven-speed transmission, hill descent assist and three zone automatic air conditioning, eight airbags and adaptive suspension with damper control.
