Audi may no longer launch final ICE car in 2026

The new Audi A5 will gain a plug-in hybrid powertrain next week
Audi may no longer launch its final ICE car in 2026 as originally planned and will use this year to decide a new timeline for phasing out ICE cars.
Audi previously announced that it would launch its final ICE car in 2026 – expected to be the next-generation Q7 – and remove it from sale in 2032, but different speeds of EV adoption in key global markets mean the company could keep petrol and diesel powertrains in its range for longer than planned.
Speaking at the company's annual results presentation, CEO Gernot Döllner outlined the ongoing importance of ICEs and emphasised Audi's substantial investment in new-generation hybrid technology.
'For all global regions, we are going to take a look at the life of combustion engines," he said. "2032 was the date we had communicated, but we have to reassess those dates and deadlines."
Explaining that the transition to EV powertrains is "going to be longer than we had originally planned for", Döllner said that ICEs will continue to have an important role to play in the medium term - particularly as the basis for hybrid powertrains.
The new Audi A5 plug-in hybrid will be revealed next week as one of 10 new PHEV models due in 2025, with the A3, A6, Q5 and forthcoming next-generation Q3 also due to receive PHEV variants over the coming months.
The new Q7 and a larger, mainly US-focused model known as the Q9 are also set to be offered with PHEV power when they're launched in the coming years.
Audi's latest ICE cars are scheduled to remain on sale last well beyond the end of the decade, Döllner said, and the company is prepared to extend their lifecycles yet further if the demand is there and legislation allows.
"On balance, an extension of combustion engines will have a positive impact on our business model," he said.
In 2024, EVs accounted for less than 10% of Audi sales globally, and the firm remains committed to maintaining a "flexible offering of drivetrains" to avoid ceding market share to rivals.
Döllner said that diesel engines remain an important offering in that context but the firm "will not invest heavily in new diesel generations".
The firm's current TDI units are compliant with the EU's Euro 7 emissions regulations and will remain available to order "as long as we are able to produce and bring these engines to market".
"We won't extend our diesel line-up – if you look at the numbers, it's declining – but it's important to us, so we are flexible in that field," said Döllner.
]]>

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Learn with AIFact CheckingText to SpeechAI Summary

Related Articles

Forbes

an hour ago

• Forbes

Leadership Falters As Climate Costs Soar And Time To Act Runs Out

CHARLEVOIX, CANADA - JUNE 9: In this photo provided by the German Government Press Office (BPA), ... More German Chancellor Angela Merkel deliberates with US president Donald Trump on the sidelines of the official agenda on the second day of the G7 summit on June 9, 2018 in Charlevoix, Canada. Also pictured are (L-R) Larry Kudlow, director of the US National Economic Council, Theresa May, UK prime minister, Emmanuel Macron, French president, Angela Merkel, Yasutoshi Nishimura, Japanese deputy chief cabinet secretary, Shinzo Abe, Japan prime minister, Kazuyuki Yamazaki, Japanese senior deputy minister for foreign affairs, John Bolton, US national security adviser, and Donald Trump. Canada are hosting the leaders of the UK, Italy, the US, France, Germany and Japan for the two day summit. (Photo by Jesco Denzel /Bundesregierung via Getty Images) London Climate Action Week is set to start, showcasing what urgent, inclusive climate action looks like when cities, financiers, and citizens unite. But the energy and innovation on display in London are being overshadowed by growing inaction from global leaders. Just days after the G7 failed to deliver any meaningful policy progress, and as the EU backpedals on its green regulation agenda, a troubling gap is emerging between local ambition and failures of international leadership. This retreat is happening at the worst possible moment. Climate damage costs are skyrocketing, climate science is sounding red alerts, and economic evidence points to a clear win: green investment can grow economies, create jobs, and protect communities. The world's most powerful leaders are not just missing an opportunity, they are magnifying a crisis. To grasp its scale, we need to look at the growing economic cost of inaction. The Price Of Delay And The Need For Leadership Bloomberg Intelligence has estimated that in the year to May 2025, the U.S. incurred close to $1 trillion (or around 3% of GDP) in direct climate-related costs from floods, wildfires, infrastructure damage, and insurance losses. Globally, heatwaves, droughts, and extreme weather are disrupting supply chains, inflating food prices, and undermining financial stability. Insurers have seen annual catastrophe losses surge tenfold since the 1980s. Premiums have skyrocketed, and coverage has shrunk, especially in wildfire and storm prone regions, exacerbating economic disruption and housing unaffordability. At the same time, the European Union appears to be shelving the Green Claims Directive, retreating under political pressure precisely when markets are demanding clear, consistent regulation to guide sustainable investment. This uncertainty discourages capital and undermines momentum. These setbacks comes as the OECD's 2025 Green Growth report shows that climate action could unlock $7.4 trillion per year in investment and job creation if scaled by 2030. Yet rather than harnessing this opportunity, many leaders are hesitating. Nowhere is this hesitancy more evident than in the recent action, or inaction, of the G7, whose decisions ripple far beyond their border G7 Paralysis And The Global Ripple Effect The G7's latest Chair's Summary reaffirms familiar goals, like limiting warming to 1.5°C but offered no timelines, targets, or tools to achieve it. 'Once again, the G7 chose safe, business-as-usual declarations over the bold, future-proof action we urgently need,' said Daniela Fernandez, CEO of Sustainable Ocean Alliance. 'The G7's latest climate commitments reflect a deeper issue,' added Ibrahim AlHusseini, managing partner of climate investor FullCycle. 'Global leaders are increasingly distracted by immediate geopolitical crises, and climate, still perceived as a medium to long-term risk, has slipped down the agenda. But this is a dangerous miscalculation.' He added: 'Delay is not neutral, it's an accelerant of future instability,' with direct consequences for supply chains, migration, and global financial systems. And it's not just experts calling for change. According to the 2024 People's Climate Vote, 80% of people globally want their countries to strengthen climate commitments, and over two-thirds support a fast transition from fossil fuels. Other surveys echoes this: 89% of people across 125 countries support stronger government action, yet many mistakenly believe they are in the minority. This public mandate for bold climate action stands in sharp contrast to the political hesitancy now on display. As political will may be stalling, another sector is responding. What was once viewed as an environmental issue is now a pressing financial risk. Climate Risk Becomes Financial Risk Inaction is not just costly, it is destabilizing. The financial consequences are already unfolding across insurance markets and beyond. "We have already seen residential and commercial insurance premiums rise and availability drop in recent years, in response to growing insurer losses," warns Tom Sabetelli-Goodyer, vice-president of climate risk at FIS. They are early signs of a broader, systemic threat. As climate impacts intensify, they are cascading through the financial system, affecting asset valuations, credit risk, and the stability of entire markets. Regulators around the world have begun to integrate climate risk into their frameworks, but last week, the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, the global standard-setter for financial regulation, added its voice with a new framework for the voluntary disclosure of climate-related financial risks. While non-binding, the guidance marks a significant step and reinforces a clear message: climate risk is no longer just environmental, it's financial. As Julia Symon, head of research and advocacy at Finance Watch put it: 'Without clear, consistent data, supervisors are flying blind, unaware of the real risks building up on balance sheets.' The Climate Clock Is Ticking Scientific indicators confirm the urgency and the danger of delay. The 2024 Indicators of Global Climate Change report shows that the average global temperature from 2015 to 2024 reached 1.24°C above pre-industrial levels, with human activity responsible for nearly all of it. In 2024 alone, global temperatures spiked to 1.52°C, temporarily crossing the critical 1.5°C threshold. More troubling still, human-induced warming is accelerating at an unprecedented rate of 0.27°C per decade, the fastest rate ever recorded. At current emissions levels, the remaining carbon budget for staying below 1.5°C could be fully exhausted within just two to five years, depending on assumptions. Scientists also point to a growing Earth energy imbalance and early signs of amplifying climate feedback loops, such as ocean heat uptake and ice melt, which could further lock in extreme changes. The window for keeping global heating within safe limits is narrowing quickly. Yet even as time runs short, the economic case for prompt action continues to strengthen. Green growth offers a rare convergence of climate responsibility and financial return. Green Growth: A Trillion-Dollar Opportunity The OECD Green Growth report emphasizes that investing in clean energy and green infrastructure is not just responsible, its smart economics. Clean energy investment now outpaces fossil fuels, and 90% of global GDP is covered by net-zero targets. The report outlines how aligning financial systems with climate goals could unlock $7.4 trillion annually in investment by 2030. 'Green growth is an approach that seeks to harmonize economic growth with environmental sustainability and helps to deliver broader development benefits,' explains Jennifer Baumwoll, head of climate strategies and policy at UNDP. Far from hindering development, the green transition can generate resilient jobs, improve productivity, and enhance long-term competitiveness. In short, the report argues that climate action is not a cost but a catalyst for growth. Countries like Mongolia and Lao PDR are already demonstrating what this looks like in practice. In Mongolia, a green finance strategy, backed by the Central Bank and a new SDG-aligned taxonomy, has mobilized $120 million in climate-aligned investment, including the country's first green bond. Green lending is targeted to grow from 2% to 10% of all bank lending by 2030. Meanwhile, Lao PDR is advancing a national circular economy roadmap to reduce waste and resource use while unlocking economic opportunity. If fully implemented, it could create 1.6 million jobs and add $16 billion to GDP by 2050. These pragmatic, investment-ready models of climate action deliver real development gains. Their progress underscores a growing global divide: while emerging economies embrace opportunity, many developed nations are falling behind, precisely when their leadership is most needed. A Shrinking Window And Defining Test Of Leadership 2025 marks a critical juncture. Countries are expected to submit new national climate plans (NDCs 3.0) ahead of COP30 in Belém this November. Yet as of late June 2025, four months after the February deadline, only a small fraction had done so. Intended to reflect increased ambition following the Global Stocktake, most submissions remain overdue, and the ambition gap continues to widen. The UN expects a surge of last-minute filings, but tardiness isn't the only concern. Most existing plans fall short of aligning with the 1.5°C target, and the policy frameworks to deliver them at scale are still lacking. The challenge is not technical though but political. Instead of advancing, many major economies are retreating, weakening targets, delaying regulations, and rolling back commitments just as the case for bold action becomes stronger. Evidence shows that a well-managed transition can boost growth, reduce inequality, and build resilience. Yet that potential is being squandered. What's needed now is not just political courage, but real leadership, capable of driving structural reform and aligning finance with planetary boundaries. Decisive action today isn't only about avoiding catastrophe, it's about exercising leadership that can shape a more stable, equitable, and liveable world. The responsibility lies with those in power to act—not later, but now.

Miami Herald

an hour ago

• Miami Herald

Acura Launches Killer Integra Lease Deal for June

As prices for new cars continue to rise year over year, it's harder to find lease deals that are worth considering, especially when it comes to luxury cars. These high-priced sedans and SUVs carry lofty price tags, which lead to higher lease payments and down payments. However, if you're willing to forgo the panache that comes with German badges, then we suggest checking out more affordable options from Japanese automakers like Acura. One particular lease deal that Acura has going on for the month of June is on the entry-level Integra. The current nationwide lease deal is for $369 per month for 48 months, with $3,799 due at signing. The offer includes a mileage limit of 10,000 miles per year. If you currently own a 2015 or newer Acura or a competitor from rival brands, you can get a sweeter deal of $359 a month for 48 months, with $2,999 due at signing. The rival brands include Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, Genesis, GMC, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Kia, Lexus, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Volvo. The Integra is Acura's latest entry in the compact car segment and the most affordable car in the automaker's lineup. It competes well within the segment with rivals like the Audi A3, BMW 2 Series, and Lexus IS, but it brings its own take on luxury by adding a healthy dose of performance. Under its hood is a 200-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that can be connected to either a CVT or a six-speed manual transmission. There are no major changes for the 2025 model year. Shopping for the Acura Integra is easy, as there are only three different trim levels to choose from: Base, A-Spec, and A-Spec Technology. The lease deal in question is for the base Integra with a CVT and a $34,195 MSRP, which includes the destination charge, but the taxes, title, license, and doc fees are extra and will vary depending on your region. If you would rather minimize your upfront costs when leasing a 2025 Acura Integra, we have estimated the payment with $0 down. By dividing the $3,799 due at signing over the 48-month term (approximately $79.15), the estimated payment equates to around $448 every month. *This $0 down figure is an estimation. Official $0 down lease offers from Acura may differ based on their specific calculations, credit approval, and potential money factor adjustments. Always obtain an official quote directly from Acura. Lease offers can vary based on location and specific vehicle configuration (trim level, options, etc.) and are subject to credit approval. The advertised payments typically exclude taxes, title, registration, and other potential fees. To take advantage of this lease offer or get an official quote tailored to your buying needs (including an official $0 down quote), visit the official Acura website here. *Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The information presented herein is based on manufacturer-provided lease offer information, which is subject to frequent change and may vary based on location, creditworthiness, and other factors. We are not a party to any lease agreements and assume no liability for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any lease offers mentioned. All terms, including but not limited to pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, require direct verification with an authorized local OEM dealership. This article does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any particular lease or vehicle. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Yahoo

3 hours ago

• Yahoo

3 of the Best Luxury Cars of 2025 Cost Less Than $45K

Luxury cars don't always come with a six-figure price tag. Acura Integra, Tesla Model 3, and Audi A4 deliver sleek styling, premium features and strong performance for under $45,000. Discover Next: Find Out: If you want an upscale ride without overspending, these three cars are worth a closer look. Price: $34,195 to $39,195 Miles Per Gallon: 26 to 29 miles in the city, 36 miles on the highway Drive Type: FWD Power: 200 hp at 6000 rpm Acura Integra is considered to be a sporty, luxury hatchback with 18-inch wheels and has an option for a six-speed manual transmission. The interior offers faux leather seats with faux suede inserts, an 8 to 12-way adjustable driver's seat with a four-way adjustable passenger seat and a generous 24 cubic-foot cargo area. Add the Technology package for a 9.0-inch infotainment display and wireless smartphone charging. The car's powertrain warranty covers six years or 70,000 miles, which is more than the Integra's competitors. Complimentary scheduled maintenance is offered at two years or 24,000 miles. Read More: Price: $44,130 Miles Per Gallon: 145 in the city, 128 on the highway Drive Type: RWD Power: 295 hp at 7000 rpm Tesla Model 3 Long Range RWD is a luxury electric compact sedan with a driver-assist system that has earned a spot on the Car and Driver Editors' Choice List for 2025. One improvement Tesla has made to the Model 3 is moving its turn signals to the steering wheel. Also, the gear shift is now on the display screen. The interior is unlike any other car on the market due to its simple design that's dominated by the extra-large touch screen secured in the middle of the dashboard, which controls almost all the functions except for those located on the steering wheel. Even with the interior being streamlined, there are many areas for storage, and the trunk space provides ample room for up to 15 carry-on suitcases. For rear passengers, there's an 8-inch touchscreen for climate control and entertainment options, including arcade games, Netflix and YouTube. The Model 3 has a Powertrain warranty that covers eight years or 100,000 miles, but no complimentary scheduled maintenance. Price: $44,100 Miles Per Gallon: 26 in the city, 36 on the highway Drive Type: AWD Power: 201 hp at 4200 rpm Audi A4 is a luxury small car that was made for the daily driver, which is now in its last year of production. The myAudiapp remote engine start is now featured on all trims of the A4. Its leather upholstered interior has a sunroof, spacious rear seating, 12 cubic feet of trunk space and a 10.1-inch touchscreen for infotainment. Adding the Premium Plus trim will allow the driver to experience many features, including a powerful Bang and Olufsen 19-speaker audio system and the Virtual Cockpit with an awesome digital gauge display. A4's Powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles. However, there's no complimentary scheduled maintenance included. More From GOBankingRates Are You Rich or Middle Class? 8 Ways To Tell That Go Beyond Your Paycheck This article originally appeared on 3 of the Best Luxury Cars of 2025 Cost Less Than $45K