After a lengthy teaser campaign, the Audi e-tron has finally been revealed as Ingolstadt’s first fully electrically powered series production model.
The German brand says its new electric SUV is powered by two electric motors that are “locally CO2-neutral and virtually silent”. A new electric generation of the brand’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, meanwhile, promises “excellent traction and dynamics”.
As we’ve already reported, the e-tron will produce 265 kW and 561 N.m, with this “peak performance” available for up to 60 seconds. But shifting from “D” to “S” and fully depressing the accelerator will activate what the brand calls “boost mode”, which will be available for just eight seconds. Here, peak outputs briefly rise to 300 kW and 664 N.m, allowing for a claimed zero to 100 km/h sprint in “less than six seconds”.
Audi says the five-seater vehicle will be able to accelerate from standstill to its electronically limited top speed of 200 km/h “several times consecutively without output losses”.
On the new WLTP test cycle, it will cover more than 400 km on one battery charge, thanks in part to its energy recuperation system. In fact, the German brand says that every kilometre travelled downhill will bring an additional kilometre in range.
Audi says the e-tron boasts a “sporty character and outstanding transverse dynamics”, aided by the low, central position of the battery system.
Of course, aerodynamics also play a role in the EV’s efficiency. One such highlight is the option of virtual exterior mirrors, which Audi says not only reduce aerodynamic drag but also take digitalisation in the vehicle “to a whole new level”.
The Audi e-tron has already started rolling off the assembly line in Brussels, with initial deliveries to European customers planned for late 2018. Audi South Africa plans to launch the new model locally at some point in 2019.
