Audi To Launch Q8 e-tron In Second Half Of Next Year

Audi entered the age of electromobility in 2018 with the Audi e-tron. Since then, the model has been setting standards in electric luxury vehicles. In the span of four years, Audi has sold 150,000 units so far. Now its electric portfolio consists of eight models and it is expected that by 2026, it will have more than 20 models. Audi is releasing fully electric models on global bases. 

A fancier, two-tone trapezoidal grille with black 2D Audi badging distinguishes the new e-tron's front appearance from the previous model. Along with receiving a minor facelift, the headlamps also receive a fully new front bumper. Both the silhouette and the back are essentially the same as the outgoing model. To distinguish the vehicle from the earlier model, the B pillars are lettered with the word "Audi." Overall, the automobile is more appealing now thanks to the comprehensive face modifications.

The Q8 e-tron models' drag coefficient has decreased as a result of the redesign up front, falling from 0.28 to 0.27 for the normal variant and from 0.26 to 0.24 for the Sportback variant.     

The Q8 e-tron's dimensions are still roomy and give passengers plenty of comfort. But compared to the SUV variant, the SQ8 e-tron and SQ8 Sportback e-tron are both 39 millimeters wider and two millimeters lower.

Performance-wise, there are three powertrain options available for the Q8 e-tron range: the 50, the 55, and the highest-end SQ8 range. The '55' versions have the longest range, with the SUV having a 582-kilometer range and the Sportback having a 600-kilometer range. Of course, the 'S' range, with a monstrous 973 newton meters of peak torque, will be the most potent model.

According to Audi, the new Q8 e-tron will also be equipped with air-spring suspension, retuned chassis control systems, and recalibrated steering, making the vehicle even more dynamic in terms of ride and handling.

The features and interior decor are the same as previously! There will be a sizable panoramic sunroof, an air quality package, optional 4-zone climate control, and a selection of upholstery. The new Q8 e-tron, according to Audi, contains a number of parts created from residue fiber, old textiles, and recycled materials. Naturally, the two high-resolution displays, MMI touch response system, virtual cockpit, integrated Wi-Fi, and Audi Connect platform will all remain in the cabin.

There are currently two battery alternatives available for the Q8 e-tron line. The Q8 50 e-tron models have a 95 gross kWh unit while the Q8 55 e-tron models have a 114 gross kWh unit. A rapid charger can charge the batteries from empty to 80 percent in 31 minutes, giving them a range of up to 420 kilometers. The larger battery requires little less than 12 hours to fully charge from a standard AC outlet, whereas the cars may be fully charged in 9 hours on an 11 kW charger.

The new Audi Q8 e-tron will make its debut on the European market in February 2023. The introduction in India is anticipated to take place a few months later, most likely in the second half of the following year. In India, it will compete with the Mercedes-Benz EQC and the Jaguar I-Pace. The regular e-tron costs Rs. 1.01 crore, while the e-tron Sportback costs Rs. 1.19 crore, according to the current range of Audi e-tron prices in India. When the 2023 Audi Q8 e-tron series is introduced in India, expect to pay a premium of between Rs. 10 lakh and Rs. 15 lakh above the existing rates.