In a move that sparks joy and charges forward into inclusivity, Audi has flipped the switch on traditional charging station design, making electric vehicle (EV) power-ups a breeze for everyone, wheels included. At the heart of this energizing tale are two extraordinary drivers: Gerd Schönfelder, a Paralympic legend with more gold medals than he has limbs, and Uwe Herrmann, a man whose wheelchair has seen more Audi models than a dealership manager.
The duo, brought together by their shared passion for accessibility and Audi’s engineering, recently rolled into the grand opening of Audi’s sixth barrier-free charging oasis in Frankfurt am Main. Schönfelder, an Audi Q4 e-tron aficionado, and Herrmann, a combustion engine loyalist intrigued by electric prospects, shared their electrified dreams and practical needs in a world where mobility comes in all shapes and sizes.
Schönfelder, known for racing down slopes faster than most people can walk, brought his champion’s perspective to the charging challenge. “Accessibility isn’t just about getting through the door; it’s about being able to enjoy the journey, knowing that your next charge isn’t a puzzle you need to solve,” he mused, praising Audi’s barrier-free hub features like the swivel arm and height-adjustable displays that make charging a less daunting task.
Herrmann, on the other hand, highlighted the day-to-day hurdles that many might overlook. “It’s the little things,” he noted, “like needing enough room to swing a cat, or in my case, a wheelchair, into the passenger seat.” His journey through Audi’s lineup, from an Audi 80 Avant to an A7, has been a testament to the brand’s commitment to customization and accessibility, with each model accommodating his needs seamlessly.
The new Audi charging hub, with its spacious design and user-friendly equipment, is more than just a place to top off your battery; it’s a testament to Audi’s vision for a future where electric mobility is for all. The hub isn’t just fast; it’s also comfortable, boasting a lounge where drivers can relax, sip coffee (from actual cups!), and even catch up on work while their vehicle charges at speeds of up to 175 kW.
“For those of us on wheels, the future of e-mobility looks bright, especially with pioneers like Audi leading the charge,” Herrmann added, envisioning a day when his electric Audi could whisk him from work to home without ever worrying about accessibility hurdles.
Schönfelder nodded in agreement, highlighting how Audi’s holistic approach to e-mobility—considering everything from the car’s design to the charging experience—makes it a beacon of progress. “It’s not just about making cars that can drive without gas; it’s about ensuring everyone can enjoy the ride,” he concluded, his eyes on the road ahead, where every charging station is a welcome mat for drivers of all abilities.
With Audi’s latest hub, the road to an inclusive, electric future looks not just accessible but downright inviting—a journey where barriers are left behind, and the only thing accelerating faster than the cars is the commitment to making every drive enjoyable for everyone.
