It looks like German automakers have been quite busy lately launching their respective fully-electric vehicles. First was Mercedes-Benz with its EQC. Then came BMW with the Vision iNEXT. Now comes Audi with its vaunted e-tron.
Yes, the Audi e-tron debuted in San Francisco, California recently and offers a host of tech that promises to bring motorists into the future of mobility. Those expecting a futuristic, spaceship-looking number may be disappointed as the electric Audi actually resembles the brand’s stylish crossovers. Yet take a closer look underneath the sheetmetal and you’’ll discover where all the sci-fi stuff come into play.
It starts off with an innovative 95kWh battery packed underneath the cabin. This powers the two electric motors that each drive the front and rear axles. Audi took durability and performance into consideration and put in place a cooling system that keeps the motors at optimum yet cool operating temperature at all times. This will help extend the life of both the battery and the electric mills.
Another notable feture of this system is its ability to recuperate heat and energy and thus, extend driving range. This is done by capturing the heat from the motor and the battery—energy that would have otherwise been lsot. Then there is regenerative braking and coasting. And the system can even alert the driver when he/she should lift off the accelerator in order to activate energy regeneration.
When it comes time to plug in, owners can do so via an AC or DC charging system. They can sign up for charging services for their homes with various providers like Amazon and Electrify America. And Audi claims that one can get as much as 80 percent charge in as little as 30 minutes.
While all this sounds really high tech, the Audi e-tron does not sacrifice performance and comfort. The electric mills allow the SUV to zip from 0-100kph in 5.5 seconds and hit a 250kph top speed—just like any gasoline-powered Audi. Then there is the air suspension that promises a supple ride wthout compromising handling.
Inside, the fie-passenger cabin is said to be more spacious as the powertrain and battery design alow the space to be fully maximized. In true Audi fashion, the MMI Plus interface features two displays on the center console—a 10.1-inch upper screen for the infotainment and vehicle functions, and an 8.6-inch lower monitor for HVAC and comfort settings.
And yes, safety is not compromised thanks to a whole gamut of driver assistance features. Adaptive cruise control, intersection assist, park steer assist, and 360-degree camera are just some of the driver aids on offer.
Expect to see the Audi e-tron go on sale by the second quarter of 2019.
