The End of a Firm EV Deadline
Audi has stepped back from its earlier commitment to go fully electric by 2033. While the German automaker had previously outlined a complete shift to EVs within the next decade, a new report from Autocar reveals that this target is no longer fixed. In a recent interview, CEO Gernot Döllner explained that maintaining flexibility in the lineup is key — and that includes keeping internal combustion engines in production for the foreseeable future.
Rather than phasing them out, Audi is preparing to launch a new generation of gasoline-powered vehicles, some of which may not even feature hybrid systems. There’s no updated timeline for full electrification, and Döllner hinted that gas-powered Audis will continue to roll off the production line well past 2033.
Electric Push Slows, Market Demand Speaks
This shift appears to be driven by both consumer demand and regulatory timelines. The European Union’s mandate for all new vehicles to be electric by 2035 remains in place, but regional markets vary. In the U.S., just around 12% of Audi sales are electric models. Globally, that number climbs to 30% — ahead of Mercedes-Benz but trailing BMW.
Audi still plans to invest in electric vehicle development, continuing to benefit from the Volkswagen Group’s broader EV initiatives. However, this strategic pivot leaves room for enthusiasts who aren’t ready to say goodbye to traditional engines just yet.
Could More Gas-Powered RS Models Be on the Horizon?
Performance fans have reason to stay hopeful. Audi’s RS division — known for producing some of the brand’s most iconic combustion engines, like the RS6’s twin-turbo V10 and the TT RS’s thrilling inline-five — may still have new petrol-powered machines in the pipeline.
As for the future of beloved nameplates like the Audi TT or R8, Döllner didn’t rule them out entirely. He noted that it’s too early for any announcements, but teased that surprises could still be in store. One thing’s clear: the age of gas-powered Audis isn’t over just yet.
source: caranddriver
