Baroque Ground takes a good look at Audi’s first-ever all-electric SUV
Audi’s first-ever electric SUV, the e-tron®, is more than just an electric car… it boasts the German marque’s legendary DNA, which means that it’s spacious, offers excellent performance and is eye-catching and electrifying. With its sleek yet strong SUV design, the new model is aerodynamically optimized.
Modern and spacious, it offers room for up to five passengers and plenty of store-away space when the rear seatbacks folded down. Then there are the driver-centric technologies designed to elevate one’s driving experience… like masterful soundproofing, a near-silent motor, seats with optional massage feature and an infotainment system that easily and intuitively manages all sorts of functions such as navigation, entertainment, interior and ride dynamics. With Audi’s innovative MMI® touch response system, the driver just needs to utilize the touch screen (or his/her voice), and the system does the rest.
The Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus is a high definition digital instrument display that assists the driver maximize the car’s efficiency and range. In addition, the vehicle features Smartphone integration, so one can access one’s phone through the touch screen display to connect one’s favorite apps, plus music, maps, messages and all sorts of other features. Best of all, it’s compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
When it comes to power, the e-tron® is unmatched. It boasts high performance horsepower with unique boost engage technology. In tests it reached 60 mph from standstill in 5.5 seconds. The SUV’s new electric quattro® all-wheel drive system brings electric power to the streets and offers exceptional control and confidence in every type of driving condition.
The SUV has a low center of gravity and the almost instantaneous torque output from its 2 electric motors (they are positioned on each axle to efficiently distribute power) results in an exceptional drive. The Audi e-tron® battery has been specifically designed to account for the heat that is generated from quick increases in speed and repeated use – this ensures excellent driving capability.
The vehicle’s battery has been designed for durability, safety and driving dynamics; one can either charge it at home (this takes approximately 9 hours from a 240-volt/50 amp outlet with a NEMA 14-50 plug) or on the go at a number of high-voltage public charging stations. The US has a fast-growing network of over 18,000 car-charging stations and almost 50,000 charging outlets, so, as long as the vehicle is 80% charged at home, it can be charged on the run. Electrify America is apparently joining this network to make public charging even easier.
The brand new Audi e-tron® will be available in the second quarter of 2019. An outstanding vehicle with all the Audi luxury – and then some. A great way to reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying a luxury, superb ride.