On its way to serial production, the model received door handles, while other features remained unchanged. It is logical that the car is similar to the similar in spirit Porsche Taycan. They have the same wheelbase of 2,900 mm, with the Audi e-tron GT being slightly longer (4,989 vs. 4,963 mm), taller (1,414 vs. 1,381 mm), and narrower in width (1,964 vs. 1,966 mm).
It’s not hard to imagine a production Audi e-tron GT without disguises, especially when you consider that it has few differences from the 2018 prototype. On the technical side, we should not expect something revolutionary either – the same J1 platform on which the Porsche Taycan is built. However, the company has found a way to interest the target audience – to offer a modification of the RS series, which, as we remember, previously did not have a single electric car. Both versions will have an electric motor on each axle, with power differentiated by the rear.
In terms of drag coefficient, the novelty, if not leading, then at least takes one of the leading places – it is equal to 0.24. This is due to the flat bottom, a special form of a diffuser, spoiler, and active air duct flaps. Notably, the GT will only be available with regular exterior mirrors, while the SUV e-tron can be equipped with cameras for a fee.
The RS is identified on the road by branded emblems. As standard, the car will receive air suspension with the possibility to adjust the clearance in the range of 42 mm and the active rear differential. We remind you that for the usual e-tron these options are offered only for a separate fee.
The maximum power of standard e-tron GT’s front electric motor is 238 hp, and 435 hp – at the rear with a two-stage reducer. We should also mention that the distribution of power between the motors is controlled by a computer using special algorithms. Their total power is 476 hp and the torque is 630 Nm. Like the four-door Porsche Taycan 4S, these figures can be increased to 530 hp and 640 N-m. Audi will be able to accelerate to 100 km/h in just 4.1 s, its top speed is 245 km/h. The standard equipment includes a rear self-clutch and a spring suspension with adaptive dampers.
Carbon-ceramic brakes and a fully steerable chassis are available as options, allowing the rear wheels to change direction by up to 2.8 degrees. Wheel sizes are R19, R20 and R21.
The RS motor on the front axle is completely normal, but the rear one is 456 hp. Total power is 598 hp and torque is 830 Nm. Even with the option of higher performance – 645 hp – the Porsche Taycan Turbo car is still slightly more powerful (680 hp, 850 N-m).
The acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h in the RS version of the electric car is 3.3 s, the top speed is 250 km/h (limited by electronics). Both sedans come with an 800-volt traction battery with a capacity of 93 kWh, with range figures of 487 and 472 km, respectively (WLTP). It takes 25 minutes to fully charge it from the 270 kW station, and 5 minutes for 100 km of range.
The equipment includes a modern digital dashboard with a 12.3″ screen and a multimedia system with a 10.1″ screen. It is noteworthy that there are fewer touch panels and bright glossy elements than many expect to see. There are physical keys on the climate control unit. Projection on the windshield is optional.
The front trunk is small – 85 liters, but the rear trunk is quite roomy – 405 liters. However, if you choose a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system, the latter will be less – 366 liters. For the version, Audi RS e-tron GT this equipment is offered by default. Needless to say, the German company is proud to say that a lot of recycled materials are used in the interior trim.
The equipment of the new car includes a number of Audi pre-sense safety solutions of the basic level. These include automatic activation of alarms, control of windows and sunroof, and tightening of safety belts – all of which will be triggered if the computer decides that there is a threat to the life and health of the driver and passengers. The safety package can be upgraded, for example, so that the system learns to recognize pedestrians and cyclists.
In addition, the new e-tron is equipped with adaptive cruise control and a remote assisted parking system. The basic equipment of the RS also includes matrix LED lights, while they are optional when choosing the conventional variant. In both cases, a laser-luminescent high beam can be selected for a fee.
Of course, the high-tech vehicle is equipped with an audible pedestrian warning system, which is mandatory for EU countries. Optionally, the Audi pre-sense complex can be retrofitted with a sports package with advanced sound settings. This option is standard for the RS version.
By the end of 2020, new cars will be assembled at Neckarsulm site, the same site where R8 sports cars are made. To set up production, the Audi Böllinger Höfe plant was equipped with a new overhead conveyor and special equipment. By the way, the electric SUV e-tron is also assembled in China and Belgium. In the EU countries, the standard e-tron GT is offered at a price starting at 99,800 euros. The RS e-tron GT version costs 138,200 euros. Recall that the price of the Porsche Taycan 4S, which is close in performance, is at least 106,487 euros, the Taycan Turbo – 153,016 euros.