Europeans can now buy the fully-electric Audi, the e-tron GT

KUALA LUMPUR: It was only a few months ago that Audi introduced the world to its fully-electric offering, the e-Tron GT. The EV’s ordering books were opened back then only for the home market and now we hear that the automaker has initiated the shipping process and that too to all 27 markets. It is to be noted that the automaker received quite a few orders for its latest electric offering, which seems to be further building on its previous success in the segment.

Speaking of Audi’s growth in the electric mobility arena, among the three premium German brands it came out as the biggest electric carmaker. Its offerings, the e-tron and e-tron Sportback recorded year-on-year growth of 79.5 percent in 2020.

Also Read: Audi e-tron and e-tron Sportback received updates for 2021

Audi is quite serious about building an all-electric range, as for the current scenario more than 80 percent of its cars are electrified. Its goal for 2021 is to increase the number of electric vehicles in its lineup from three to seven. By 2025, Audi aims to have more than 20 battery electric vehicles and expanded PHEV under its name.

Also Read: Audi to go all-electric in 10 to 15 years, as per the reports 

Let’s now get back to the latest fully-electric Audi, the e-tron GT, starting with its price -

Price

As for the prices, in Germany, Audi is offering the e-tron GT quattro at a starting price of 99,800 euros (around RM 494,000). The advance RS e-tron GT price, on the other hand, commences at 138,200 euros (around RM 684,000).

 Engine details

Both the Audi e-tron models, the entry-level quattro and RS version source power from twin electric motors, one on each axle. In the base quattro model, the front motor makes 238 PS and the rear puts out 435 PS. The combined output rests at 476 PS and 630 Nm of torque. Under Launch Control engagement, the output hikes up to 530 PS and 640 Nm, in just 2.5 seconds. On the performance side, the quattro trim touches the 100 kmph mark in just 4.1 seconds and can attain a top speed of 245 kmph.

The top-spec RS e-tron GT version, the power output for the front and rear motor reads 238 PS and 456 PS. Combined output rests at 598 PS and 830 Nm. Under launch control mode, the figures shoot up to 646 PS. With the above fittings, the RS model covers the century sprint in 3.3 seconds and it tops out at 250 kmph.

The motor on the rear axle transmits power to the rear wheels via a two-speed gearbox. While the first close-ratio gear enables peak acceleration, the long-ratio second gear can be picked for daily commute.

Range & charging

On a full charge, the Audi e-tron GT’s 85-kWh lithium-ion battery provides a range of up to 487 km. The 800-volt electric architecture supports ultra-fast DC charging (270 kW), and a mere five-minute charge results in 100 km of range. Helping cope with such high levels of charging, Audi has provided it with four cooling circuits that regulate temperature, ensuring optimal charge rates.

Exterior & interior features

Ex-works, the e-tron GT will be made available with -

• LED headlights (with preparation for further light functions)
• 19-inch wheels in Aero design
• E-tron charging system compact & Mode 3 charging cable
• Standard sports seat

Add-on options include -

• 20-inch wheels (cost between 1000-1,750 euros)
• 21-inch wheels (cost between 2,750-3,500 euros)
• Matrix LED (activated directly when ordering for 1,540 euros)
• Laser light (for 2,890 euros)
• Sports seat (for 1,990 euros)
• Sports seats pro (for 3,890 euros)
• Leather-free interior (for 600 euros)
• e-tron charging system connect (for 1,270 euros)

RS e-tron GT limited individualised options -

• Carbon roof (for 3,750 euros)
• Glossy carbon optics package (for 4,300 euros)
• Steel brakes with tungsten carbide coating (for 500 euros)
• Ceramic brake system (for 5,600 euros)
• RS-specific design package

Furthermore, Audi also offers the e-tron GT with several assistance system packages, including, Parking, City, and Tour. Also, functions like night vision assistant, head-up display, and ambient cameras are offered individually.

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