Audi reveals its new entry-level EV with over 400 miles of range starts at about $45,000

Audi has revealed a new entry-level electric car, the A2 e-tron, reviving a nameplate from a lightweight, fuel-efficient model it sold 25 years ago. The new version can travel up to 401 miles on a full charge, according to European testing standards, and comes in four power levels and three battery sizes (52, 61, or 84 kWh). Fast-charging times range from about 14 minutes for the smallest battery to 29 minutes for the largest, going from 10% to 80% charge.

This is a European release, not a U.S. one. Orders open September 10, 2026, with prices starting around €38,200 (about $45,000) for the base model, rising to about €51,200 for the top trim. The car is built in Germany, and first deliveries are expected in December 2026. Audi has not confirmed plans to bring it to the United States, and given that it's designed specifically for the European market, there's no strong indication it will arrive here.

One detail worth noting for anyone following home-energy technology: the A2 e-tron supports bidirectional charging, meaning it can power outside devices, and in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland it can even work as a backup home battery when paired with a compatible charging setup. That feature isn't available in the U.S. yet, since the car itself isn't sold here, but it points to a growing trend of electric vehicles doubling as home backup power sources as more automakers add this capability.