The new Audi e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT are about to be unleashed.
- e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT set for simultaneous introduction in spring 2021
- Ultra-high specification e-tron GT quattro Vorsprung also available, RS e-tron GT also offered in Carbon Black and Carbon Vorsprung forms
- Peak power equivalent to 476PS (e-tron GT quattro) and 598PS (RS e-tron GT) – 530PS and 646PS respectively available in boost mode
- 0-62mph in as little as 3.3 seconds aided by standard electric quattro all-wheel-drive
- 800-volt, 93kWh battery, superfast DC charging capability at up to 270kW
- Predicted WLTP driving range in excess of 295 miles (e-tron GT quattro) and 280 miles (RS e-tron GT)
Launching simultaneously this spring, the new GT sports cars combine breath-taking and instantly accessible acceleration and zero local emissions with compellingly incisive handling, cruising comfort and ultra-sophisticated infotainment and driver assistance technology.
The exterior of the e-tron GT is a dynamic work of art. The long wheelbase, wide track, large wheels and low-lying silhouette provide the foundations for beautifully balanced proportions that are also highly effective from an aerodynamic perspective.
The cars will also be available in a lavish Vorsprung specification option in the case of the e-tron GT quattro, and in the RS e-tron GT can be enhanced by Carbon Black and Carbon Vorsprung equipment lines.
Drive and recuperation
The e-tron GT accelerates from rest to 62mph in 4.1 seconds, while the RS model needs 3.3 seconds (in boost mode in each case). Top speeds are governed at 152mph and 155mph respectively.
The front electric motor in the e-tron GT delivers 175 kW (238 PS), to which the rear motor is able to contribute a further 320 kW (435 PS), however both keep reserves available for extreme driving situations, meaning that the sum of their individual outputs exceeds the drive system’s total output of 350 kW (476 PS) by some margin. Up to 390 kW (530 PS) can be made available for 2.5 seconds in boost mode via launch control. The total torque is 630 Nm (464.7 lb-ft). In the RS e-tron GT, the electric motor on the front axle shares the e-tron GT’s 175 kW (238 PS) output, while the motor in the rear provides 335 kW (456 PS). The total output is 440 kW (598 PS), and the total torque is 830 Nm (612.2 lb-ft). In boost mode, the output briefly increases to 475 kW (646 PS).
Battery and thermal management
The lithium-ion battery system at the heart of the Audi e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT is located between the axles, at the car’s lowest point. This provides a low centre of gravity and a weight distribution between the front and rear axles that is very close to the ideal 50:50.
Four separate coolant circuits regulate the temperature in the high-voltage components and the interior, each at its own temperature level. They can be interconnected flexibly when required. If the driver demands a high output several times in a row, valves couple the coolant circuit of the battery with the refrigerant circuit of the air conditioning system – the intensive cooling helps to maintain performance at a consistently high level. The refrigerant circuit also helps with cooling during fast DC charging, which can heat the battery up to 50 degrees Celsius.
From 11 to 270 kW: AC and DC charging
Charging ports are behind both front wheels in the e-tron GT models. Both sides feature connections for alternating current (AC) and there is also a connection for direct current (DC) on the right-hand side. Two charging cables are included as standard: one Type 2, Mode 3 for use at AC charging points including a home wallbox, and the compact e-tron charging system, consisting of a control unit and Type 2, Mode 2 cable with a domestic and industrial plug.
The e-tron GT can charge with up to 11 kW AC, meaning an empty battery can be replenished overnight. An optional on-board charger that increases charging capability to up to 22 kW will be available shortly after launch. At a sufficiently powerful DC terminal, the electric coupé can achieve a peak charging capacity of up to 270 kW, allowing it to take on board enough charge for a journey of up to 62 miles in just over five minutes. Charging from 5 to 80 per cent SoC (state of charge) takes less than 23 minutes in ideal conditions.
Driver assist systems
The Audi pre sense front and Audi pre sense basic safety systems are standard, as is the lane departure warning system, while other technologies, including adaptive cruise assist, intersection assist and surround view cameras, are bundled into “Tour,” “City Assist,” and “Parking Assistance” packages. The assist package plus comprises all three and is standard for the e-tron GT Vorsprung and RS e-tron GT Carbon Vorsprung, which also add a night vision assistant and a head-up display.
A new driver assistance highlight is the remote park assist plus feature that forms part of the parking assistance package. It enables the driver to manoeuvre the Audi e-tron GT into and out of a parallel or bay parking space by simply pushing a button, and without needing to be seated in the vehicle.
