The Audi Q8 e-tron has been revealed as the brand’s new top of the range SUV that will carry its all new design language and corporate identity into the electric future.
Further enhancements have also been made to the model like improved aerodynamics, increased charging performance, battery capacity, and range.
Two models will be available including the traditionally shaped Q8 e-tron SUV alongside the SQ8 e-tron Sportback.
Audi is reshaping itself and its designs to embrace its future lineup of all electric vehicles with the Q8 e-tron being the first to adopt them.
The front end has been redesigned, evolving the closed off grille e-tron look we’re used to into a functional piece with openings. A new lighting fixture casts light down onto the Audi logo too.
A new wrap-around tail light design can be found at the back along with Audi’s new two dimensional logo and new typeface for its badging.
Otherwise, it bares similarity to the current Q8 on offer.
The Q8 55 e-tron SUV will receive a drivetrain that produces 300kW (in boost mode) and 664Nm of torque, achieving a maximum range of 582km from its 106kWh battery.
In the SQ8 e-tron Sportback, a different drivetrain powered by three motors amounting to 370kW and 973Nm of torque (in boost mode) will be on offer. Range from the same 106kWh battery comes to 513km due to the model’s increased power output.
Recharging can be done at up to 170kW with a high-powered DC charger and can juice the model up from 10 to 80 per cent in 31 minutes.
It will take 11.5 hours to reach full charge with an AC charger at 11kW but an optional 22kW AC charger is on offer, bringing the wait time down to 6 hours.
Ride and handling has been improved with air-spring suspension and controlled shock absorption which can raise and lower the SUV’s height by 76mm.
The electronic stability control (ESC) has been adjusted to allow for more maneuverability in tight corners while a quicker steering rack has been installed.
Aerodynamics on the EV have been improved through new wheel spoilers mounted underneath the Q8 e-tron which direct air around the front and back wheels. These are only mounted to the back axle on the SQ8 e-tron Sportback.
The front grille now features a self-sealing system which automatically opens and closes shutters on the front grille.
Occupants can expect to find a new panoramic glass sunroof inside which can open into two parts.
Parts of the interior are now made from recycled materials including the plastic covers for the seat belt buckles. Materials used for insulation, damping and carpeting are also recycled.
A suite of 40 driver assistance systems make their way into the Q8 e-tron which are fed information by five radar sensors, five cameras, and 12 sensors.
The Q8 e-tron also features remote park assist plus which parks the SUV at the touch of a button via the myAudi app on a user’s smartphone.
The new Audi Q8 e-tron and Audi SQ8 e-tron Sportback are currently due to arrive in New Zealand during the second quarter of 2023. Final pricing and specifications will be released closer to the local launch.
