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As the automotive industry continues its shift towards greater electrification, Audi remains at the forefront of innovation. The latest step in this journey is the introduction of MHEV plus, a next-generation mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) system that enhances efficiency, performance, and driving dynamics.
Unveiled in early 2025, the MHEV plus system debuts in the new Audi A5 and Audi Q5, which are built on Audi’s Premium Platform Combustion (PPC). This 48-volt hybrid technology goes beyond traditional MHEV systems, incorporating a powertrain generator (PTG) alongside a belt alternator starter (BAS) and a lithium iron phosphate battery. The result? A more electrified, efficient, and responsive driving experience that aligns with Audi’s vision of sustainable performance.
What Makes MHEV Plus Different?
Mild hybrid systems are not new to Audi, but the MHEV plus system takes electrification to the next level by integrating more advanced components that work seamlessly with combustion engines. Here’s what makes it stand out:
The Powertrain Generator (PTG) – A New Level of Electrification
At the core of the MHEV plus system is the powertrain generator (PTG), a compact yet powerful electric drive unit mounted directly on the transmission output shaft. Unlike traditional mild hybrid systems, which only assist with coasting and engine restart, the PTG actively contributes to the drivetrain, delivering:
- Up to 18 kW (24 PS) of additional electric power
- 230 Nm of instant torque, improving acceleration and responsiveness
This means that the MHEV plus system can directly support the combustion engine, making driving more dynamic and efficient, particularly when accelerating from a standstill or overtaking.
Energy Recuperation – More Power, Less Waste
One of the key benefits of any hybrid system is its ability to recapture energy that would otherwise be wasted during deceleration. The MHEV plus system excels in this area, featuring an advanced recuperation function that can recover up to 25 kW of energy when braking or coasting.
This recaptured energy is stored in the 48-volt battery, positioned above the rear axle, and later used to assist the engine, reducing fuel consumption and emissions while improving overall efficiency.
Enhanced Fuel Efficiency & Reduced Emissions
Audi has long been committed to sustainable mobility, and the MHEV plus system delivers tangible efficiency benefits.
For example, in the Audi A5 2.0 TDI, the system helps:
- Reduce fuel consumption by up to 0.38 litres per 100 km
- Lower CO₂ emissions by up to 10 g/km
These improvements make MHEV plus-equipped vehicles more economical without sacrificing performance, a key advantage for drivers looking to balance power with sustainability.
Seamless Integration Across Drivetrains
Another major advantage of MHEV plus is its versatility. The system has been designed to integrate into various Audi models, regardless of drivetrain layout.
Whether it’s:
- Front-wheel drive (FWD) models
- quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) variants
The liquid-cooled MHEV plus components adapt seamlessly to different vehicle architectures, ensuring that efficiency and performance gains are maximised across the lineup.
A Step Closer to Electrification
Geoffrey Bouquot, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development at AUDI AG, emphasized the company's direction:
"With the new MHEV plus technology, we are driving forward electrification in our new combustion-engine vehicles based on the Premium Platform Combustion that is tailored to the needs of our customers."
This statement underscores Audi’s long-term commitment to electrification, even in its internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
What This Means for Audi Drivers
For customers, the MHEV plus system brings a range of practical benefits that enhance everyday driving:
- Improved responsiveness: With electric assistance, acceleration is smoother and more immediate.
- Lower running costs: Enhanced efficiency means lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions-based taxes.
- Greater comfort: The system supports quieter operation, especially in urban driving where coasting and regenerative braking play a greater role.
Audi’s MHEV plus technology proves that hybridisation isn’t just about sustainability—it’s also about better performance, enhanced efficiency, and a more refined driving experience.
The launch of MHEV plus marks a significant milestone in Audi’s pursuit of a smarter, more efficient hybrid future. By combining a powerful electric drive unit, advanced energy recuperation, and seamless drivetrain integration, Audi has set a new benchmark for mild hybrid technology.
As the automotive world moves towards greater electrification, Audi’s MHEV plus system ensures that combustion-powered vehicles remain relevant, efficient, and future-ready—delivering the best of both worlds: performance and sustainability.
Expect to see MHEV plus technology expand across Audi’s model range in the coming years, reinforcing the brand’s reputation for innovation and cutting-edge engineering.
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