Audi A2 gets 25th revival as a one-off Electromod

This concept proves that the 25-year-old hatchback was well ahead of its time

The Audi A2 is back, not as a production car, but as a one-off EV conversion from the automaker’s apprenticeship program. The A2 e-tron reinterprets the brand’s innovative modern classic with new styling cues and an all-electric powertrain, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the original.

The model was shown on Audi AG’s social media channels, but there was no information about the electric car’s underpinnings. The proportions and greenhouse follow the original A2, combined with some redesigned parts for a modern look.

More: Audi Q6 and SQ6 Sportback E-Trons Bow with Stylish Style, Up to 510 HP

At the front, the A2 e-Tron features slimmer LED headlights, an illuminated Audi badge on the overlay grille, and a cleaner bumper design. The silhouette has been enhanced with the omission of door handles, rearview mirrors in place of cameras, wide fender extensions and a new set of aerodynamically optimized alloy wheels.

The rear has also been updated, with modern graphics for the taillights, a cleaner tailgate design, and a clear rear spoiler with integrated brake lights. Limited interior shots reveal that the A2 e-tron has been modified with Audi sport bucket seats.

Audi A2 E-tron

Audi A2

The automaker congratulated the trainees, students and supervisors involved in the switch. Audi apprentices have been responsible for some cool projects in recent years, including the 2020 RS6 GTO and the reborn NSU Prinz electromod in 2023.

Never reached its true sales potential

The Audi A2 was launched in late 1999, although its design (signed by Luc Donckerwolke) was based on the 1997 Audi Al2 concept car. The 3,826 mm (150.6 in) long subcompact hatchback has an MPV-like shape and focuses on efficiency, with an aerodynamic shape (0.25-0.29 cd), frugal powertrain and extensive use of aluminum in the structure.

While the model was generally well-received in reviews, its high pricing and quirky design led to slow demand. When production ceased in 2005, only 176,377 A2 units rolled off the production line, and sales were dismal.

In 2010, the A2 was indirectly replaced by the more conventional Audi A1 supermini, based on the Polo. The 2011 Audi A2 concept car and the latest 2019 Audi AI:ME concept car are closer to the original models in terms of styling, but are not in production.

While the ICE-powered A1 and Q2 will soon disappear from the lineup, Audi is reportedly working on a new entry-level electric car that is expected to debut in 2027. The model’s name is likely to use an odd number, with the A2 moniker being considered a possibility.