Audi has candidly acknowledged a misstep in its recent vehicle naming strategy, which aimed to distinguish between gasoline-powered and electric models. The German automaker had attempted to assign odd numbers to its internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and even numbers to its electric counterparts (EVs). However, this approach, which notably saw the A4 become the A5 for 2024, has been deemed confusing and is now being reversed.
Audi's Naming Convention U-Turn and Future Plans
In a significant decision, Audi is set to abandon its short-lived vehicle nomenclature system, a strategy that aimed to segregate its internal combustion and electric vehicle lineups through odd and even numbering. This move follows an admission from the automaker that the strategy introduced unnecessary complexity and confusion for consumers. The initial rollout saw models like the A4 transition to A5 for its combustion-engine variants, with the A6 also slated for a similar change to A7 before the company halted the process. Audi CEO Gernot Döllner, in an interview with Australia's Drive magazine, confirmed the company's openness to reinstating the A4 designation, signaling a return to a more familiar and traditional naming structure.
This reversal does not, however, impede Audi's electric ambitions. An all-electric A4, potentially named A4 E-Tron, is still under development and is anticipated to launch around 2028. While this places Audi behind competitors like BMW and Mercedes in introducing electric sedans in this segment, the brand appears committed to clarity in its EV naming. This isn't the first time Audi has changed course on naming; a previous system introduced in 2017, based on power output intervals (e.g., '30' for 81–96 kW), was also scrapped due to widespread customer bewilderment. Furthermore, Audi recently introduced a separate, all-electric 'AUDI' brand (capitalized and without the iconic Four Rings logo) in China in partnership with SAIC, adding another layer to its evolving brand identity. Looking ahead, Audi is preparing for a series of new model introductions and updates, including a new Q7 in 2026, a larger Q9, and a potential revival of the A2 nameplate for an entry-level EV, while models like the A1 and Q2 are set to be discontinued.
Audi's willingness to admit and rectify its naming strategy error demonstrates a valuable commitment to customer clarity and brand integrity. In an increasingly complex automotive market, where the lines between traditional and electric powertrains are blurring, a straightforward naming system is crucial. This decision, though a course correction, ultimately strengthens Audi's position by prioritizing consumer understanding and reinforcing trust in the brand's long-term vision.
