Audi has revealed its flagship EV, the new e-tron GT, which will hit roads this spring in an effort to take on the likes of the Tesla Model S.
The new four-door model, which is near-enough identical to the e-tron GT concept car that previewed it back in 2018, is described by the German brand as having an “emotionally charged design”.
“It is the most beautiful car I have ever drawn,” says Marc Lichte, the company’s head of design. “Lower air resistance translates into greater range: We have turned this basic law of physics of electric mobility into the design principle for the e-tron GT. Form follows function, aesthetics arise from efficiency. The new design language creates a stronger flow and thereby creates refined aerodynamics. The design of the e-tron GT thus forms the basis for the design of future electric models”.
Standing 1.41-metres high, and with a width of 1.96 metres and a length of 4.99 metres stretched over a 2.90-metre wheelbase, the car will come in both standard and RS guises.
The former able to accelerate from rest to 62 mph in 4.1 seconds, while the RS edition needs 3.3 seconds. Top speeds are electronically limited to 152 mph and 155 mph, respectively.
The front electric motor in the e-tron GT delivers 235 bhp, to which the rear motor is able to contribute a further 429 bhp. Up to 523 bhp can be made available for 2.5 seconds in boost mode via launch control. Total torque is listed at 464.7 lb-ft.
In the RS e-tron GT, the electric motor on the front axle shares the e-tron GT’s 235 bhp output, while the motor in the rear provides 450 bhp. The total output is 590 bhp, and the total torque is 612.2 lb-ft. In boost mode, the output briefly increases to 637 bhp.
Charging ports, meanwhile, can be found behind both front wheels on both variants, with Audi anticipating average ranges of over 295 miles and 280 miles, respectively.
The car can charge with up to 11 kW AC as standard, which Audi says will enable an empty battery to be replenished “overnight”. An optional onboard charger that increases charging capability to up to 22 kW will be available shortly after launch.
The lithium-ion battery system, which is located between the axles at the car’s lowest point, can store a total of 86 kWh of energy, and is also claimed to have a weight distribution “that is very close to” 50:50.
