Audi begins assembly of new high-voltage battery in Germany
Audi has started the assembly of a new generation of high-voltage batteries in Germany for its Q6 e-tron model. The new 800-volt battery technology enhances charging speed and energy efficiency.
Automaker Audi has commenced the assembly of new high-voltage (HV) batteries at its Ingolstadt plant in Germany. These batteries are designed for the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) and will first be implemented in the new Audi Q6 e-tron series.
The new battery assembly line is producing approximately 1,000 HV batteries daily. The facility utilizes an 800-volt architecture, enabling charging power of up to 270 kW. The battery boasts a total capacity of 100 kWh (94.9 kWh net) and can charge from 10 to 80 percent in about 21 minutes at a compatible fast-charging station.
Audi states that the battery has been completely redeveloped. It features twelve modules containing a total of 180 prismatic cells. Compared to previous systems, the number of modules and cells has been significantly reduced, leading to a smaller and lighter battery. Cell production prioritizes energy density by using a nickel-heavy composition (approximately 8:1:1 ratio of nickel to cobalt and manganese).
The battery's new design allows for better integration into the vehicle's structure and cooling system. Furthermore, the reduced component count and shorter cabling minimize weight losses. The battery's advanced thermal management ensures consistent temperature and efficient heating or cooling.
With this new assembly process, Audi aims to increase the in-house production rate for its electric models and gain experience for future battery production expansions. The manufacturing time per battery has been reduced from approximately two hours to just 55 minutes, with an automation rate of about 90 percent.