Audi to launch all-electric e-tron and e-tron Sportback soon
After delays in the original launch timeline of the Audi e-tron all-electric SUV in 2020, Audi India has announced that its first-ever pure electric car will be joined in India by its sportier looking cousin, the e-tron Sportback as well. Revised launch timelines for the two electric SUVs stand within the next two-three months, with both launches to occur simultaneously. The e-tron and e-tron Sportback will drive into India at an expected ex-showroom price hovering around the Rs 1 crore mark, where the Mercedes-Benz EQC sits, and where the soon-to-be-launched Jaguar I-Pace will also likely reside. Globally, the Audi e-tron and e-tron Sportback sold over 47,000 units, accounting for 3 per cent of Audi's sales in 2020, with the e-tron proving to be the bestselling EV in Europe for 2020.
(Top) Audi e-tron and (bottom) e-tron Sportback are set for a simultaneous launch in the coming months
Audi will also accept customisation options for the fully imported e-tron and e-tron Sportback, with delivery timelines for customised models going up to four months. The e-tron that's expected to be sold in India is the 55 quattro variant, as showcased in the country last year.
Audi e-tron
This model uses a liquid-cooled 95kWh battery, powering dual-electric motors. Total power outputs stand at 360PS/561Nm, while an overboost function can temporarily provide up to 408PS and 664Nm of torque. That results in a 0-100kmph run in 6.6s, or 5.7s on overboost. Meanwhile, driving range is between 369-441km (according to WLTP standards). Audi India will install a home charger for customers, likely an 11kWh charger that charges to full in 8.5 hours, while the optional 22kWh charger cuts that time down to 4.5 hours.
Audi
The drivetrain on the SUV-coupe styled e-tron Sportback should match the e-tron's, while the swoopier-roofline contributes to aerodynamic efficiency, giving the Sportback a lower 0.25Cd versus the e-tron's 0.27Cd, for marginally improved range of 373-452km (WLTP), with both SUV's unladen weights remaining the same at 2,520kg. The e-tron Sportback does however lose out on luggage capacity, with 615-litres of cargo space behind the second row of seats, versus the e-tron's 660-litres, which can be further expanded to 1,725-litres with the seats folded, versus the Sportback's 1,665-litres. There is the possibility that Audi could offer the e-tron S Sportback as well to differentiate it, which adds a third electric motor to the mix for a total of 435PS and 808Nm torque (503PS/973Nm on overboost), helping it manage the 0-100kmph run in a scant 4.5s, while driving range comes in at 370km (WLTP).
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