Electromobility: Norway as a role model

In Germany, there are still many skeptic people when it comes to e-mobility. Why is the acceptance of electromobility in Norway so high?
Elin Sinervo: An obvious reason are the strong purchase incentives in place to motivate consumers to choose zero emission when buying a new car. This has paved the way for e-mobility in Norway for years already. But what is really the key, now that the market is mature and comfortable with the electric drivetrain, is that once you go electric you won’t go back. We have the insight to prove that EV owners are determined to stay electric, and this is strongly motivated by the cars, not just incentives. Less noise, better acceleration, the range you need, and it’s good for the environment. And with the e-tron serving as a prime example.

Why is the Audi e-tron in particular incredibly successful in Norway?
Elin Sinervo: First of all, the Audi e-tron is the perfect embodiment of the Audi brand. It has taken the quattro brand to the next level, it’s digital and full of the features you would expect from an SUV in the premium segment branded with the four rings. With the e-tron 50 version introduced at an even more competitive price, we see that the dreamers have been able to convert dream to reality being in position to buy an Audi SUV.  Soon to be accompanied by the Audi e-tron GT, we can add even more brand value with Audi Sport.

What do you think has changed most in Norway's automotive industry in the last years?
Elin Sinervo: The automotive industry is more fragmented, as a result of the electrification of the market. New brands pop up almost overnight, as established and well-known brands have more or less disappeared from one day to the next. If you have not yet entered the electric race, you are likely to disappear from the Norwegian market in 2021. And during the past few years, we have seen examples of OEMs launching EVs that have instantly taken their brands from zero to top of the charts in short time.

Chinese customers prefer large vehicles, with a storage slot for their mascot – are there any special requests from Audi customers who are typically Norwegian?
Elin Sinervo: The towing bar! Most of us hardly ever use it, but still it is vital point for customers in Norway. When we could confirm the towing bar prior to the launch of Audi e-tron, we could see an instant and massive rise in interest. The stereotypical Norwegian brings skis to the mountains in the weekend, and therefore the possibility to attach a roof box is also important. This last point gives us a clear advantage facing our competitor Tesla Model X. Norway is a nation with a challenging topography, and cold winters. The electric range is important but is now more of a hygiene factor, as the battery technology has improved rapidly the past couple of years. This affect the features we look for in a car, where large space, long range, fast charging, quattro and a good ground clearance are in the mix for a great share of the market.

How is the "typical" Audi customer in Norway? Does it even exist?
Elin Sinervo: The well-known Audi customer is back in our folder, and quite a few of these have had a stopover with other brands while waiting for us to join the electric race. The success with e-tron has also placed us on the map for a good share of new customers. We see that the traditional premium customers have us top of mind, and same now goes for customers triggered by elements such as progressive, well-designed and tech-oriented.