Audi To End Launch Of New ICE Vehicles From 2026 Onwards

The Germans are continuing to illustrate their commitment towards electrification.

2021 has been a progressive year for Audi with the release of new EVs like the e-tron GT and the Q4 e-tron, along with the showcasing of the A6 e-tron concept. As more and more ICE models get replaced by EVs, it’s only a matter of time before Audi phases out its fossil fuel-powered engines completely.

Audi CEO Markus Duesmann announced last Thursday that Audi will introduce its last combustion-powered car in 2026. This final ICE engine, which is said to be “the best of that type we [will] ever make”, will be manufactured for about 7 years following its release. Although refresh cycle years suggest Audi’s final ICE car will be the Q5, it’s entirely possible Audi will have something more iconic as their final tribute to the internal combustion engine.

This decision is most likely due to the EU’s even stricter new emission regulations known as Euro 7. Meanwhile, fellow German automaker Mercedes-Benz announced it would end ICE vehicle sales in 2039, while BMW hasn’t confirmed a date yet.

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Image via Audi