Full Details: Audi e-tron GT

Audi has revealed full details of its new e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT models. Below is the full press copy and photography released along with the Celebration of Progress reveal event.

Electric, sporty and Progressive

With the e-tron GT, Audi is demonstrating how fascinating electric mobility will be. The four-door coupé combines emotive design with a powerful drive and dynamic handling. This is the start of a new era, the gran turismo of the future.

It is an Audi which the world has never seen before: With the e-tron GT, the brand is demonstrating its plans for shaping an emotional and fascinating future of mobility. Two models of the gran turismo with fully electric drive will be introduced in the market simultaneously in spring of 2021: the e-tron GT quattro2 and the RS e-tron GT3. Both models are powerful, fast, and dynamic, and both have zero local emissions. The sum of these qualities adds up to a strong character that reinterprets the idea of the gran turismo.

The exterior of the Audi e-tron GT is a dynamic work of art. Each surface and e line is harmonious, from the headlights, which are optional available with laser light, to the large diffuser at the rear. In combination, the details create a sculpture that looks like it was shaped by the wind. The body line is extremely aerodynamic, and the drag coefficient is just 0.24. The interior also matches with a classic gran turismo design: The driver and front passenger seats are installed in a sporty low position and separated by a wide center console, and the rear seats provide sufficient space even for adults. The calm elegance of the interior design emphasizes the car’s progressive character.

A gran turismo is a sporty touring car with excellent dynamic handling, a confident glider. The Audi e-tron GT shares this character. Depending on the model, the electric motors output is 350 kW (476 PS) or 440 kW (598 PS), allowing also dynamic spurts. The range of up to 488 kilometers (298.3 mi, predicted WLTP), which is made possible by the battery and its net capacity of 85 kWh, is also important. Its 800-volt technology enables fast DC charging with an output of up to 270 kW. The suspension is also based in the balance of dynamism and comfort, thanks to technologies such as Audi drive select, all-wheel steering, controlled damping, three-chamber air suspension, electric all-wheel drive, and the rear-axle differential lock. The wheel sizes range up to 21 inches and the brake disks – which are available in carbon-fiber ceramic as an option – have a diameter of up to 420 millimeters (16.5 in).

Like all Audi models, the e-tron GT is fully connected. The infotainment, the online services from Audi connect, and the assist systems are state-of-the-art. And since the dynamic work of art must also sound good, Audi has composed a unique sound for the e-tron GT. It sounds powerful and progressive – like a real Audi.

Facts and Figures: The Audi e-tron GT quattro and the Audi RS e-tron GT

Positioning

  • Reinterpretation of the gran turismo philosophy: four-door coupé with an elegant and dynamic design and powerful electric drive; great confidence on long distances and in everyday driving
  • RS e-tron GT as the spearhead of electrification at Audi and Audi Sport GmbH
  • Emotional signature car and outlook for future design

Exterior design, aerodynamics, and body

  • Gran turismo design further developed under the flag of electric mobility: Sportiness and comfort meet sustainability
  • Sporty proportions: large wheels, wide track, flat silhouette, long wheelbase
  • Flowing design language as the new design feature: Aesthetics arise from efficiency
  • Sculptural design: a low inverted Singleframe grille in vehicle color; highly distinctive quattroblisters; a flat greenhouse with a sloping roof line; rear end with extreme indentations
  • Low drag coefficient of just 0.24 enables high efficiency and a long range; activeaerodynamics with switchable air inlets for brakes and radiators, as well as a rear spoiler thatextends in multiple stages; closed underbody and wide diffuser
  • High rigidity and crash safety thanks to ultra-high strength steel in the passenger cell and areinforcing battery housing; aluminum outer skin
  • Length: 4.99 meters (16.4 ft); width: 1.96 meters (6.4 ft); height: just 1.41 meters (4.6 ft);flat body line; luggage compartment with a volume of 405 liters (14.3 cu ft) in the rear

Headlights and lights

  • Matrix LED headlights are standard in the RS e-tron GT and available as an option in the e- tron GT quattro
  • Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light are available as an option for both models; they double the range of the high beam
  • Rear lights with a light band; dynamic coming home and leaving home animations in combination with top-of-the-range headlights

Interior design and interior

  • Instrument panel with driver orientation and “monoposto character,” open feeling of space
  • Low seat position and wide center console; rear seat bench is also suitable for adults
  • Sustainability meets sportiness and comfort: leather-free interiors, upholstery made with ahigh percentage of recycled material
  • Multiple design packages, RS model with specific equipment details

Drive and recuperation

  • Electric all-wheel drive with one permanently excited synchronous machine (PSM) at the front and rear axles; two-speed transmission at the rear axle
  • The Audi e-tron GT quattro has a total output of 350 kW (476 PS) and 630 Nm (464.7 lb-ft) of torque, while the RS e-tron GT outputs 440 kW (598 PS) and 830 Nm (612.2 lb-ft) of torque; launch control provides a boost output of 390 kW (530 PS) or 475 kW (646 PS) for a maximum of 2.5 seconds
  • 0–100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 4.1 or 3.3 seconds (RS model),; top speed of 245/250 km/h (152.2/155.3 mph)
  • Intelligent control of sailing and recuperation, brake recuperation of up to 265 kW

Battery and thermal management

  • Lithium-ion battery with a net energy capacity of 85 kWh (93 kWh gross) and a voltage level of 800 volts; 396 pouch cells in 33 modules
  • AC charging with an output of 11 kW as standard and with 22 kW will be shortly available after market launch; DC charging with an output of up to 270 kW as standard
  • Range of more than 488 km (298.3 mi) with one charge in WLTP (predicted for Audi e- tron GT quattro); very short charging times: just five minutes for a distance of roughly 100 km (62.1 mi).
  • Sophisticated thermal management with four cooling circuits, efficient heat pump as standard; preconditioning for fast DC charging on the road
  • e-tron Charging Service with around 200,000 charging points in Europe and attractive rates

Suspension

  • Low center of gravity and excellent axle load distribution thanks to the installation position of the battery and the arrangement of the electric motors
  • Standard: controlled damping, rear-axle differential lock, Audi drive select dynamic handling system
  • Optional (standard in the RS model): controlled rear axle differential lock and three-chamber air suspension adaptive air suspension; optional for both model: all-wheel steering
  • Brake disks with tungsten carbide coating as an option (standard in the RS model);brake disks made of carbon fiber ceramics optional for both models
  • 19- to 21-inch wheels, mostly in aero design; 20- and 21-inch wheels with aero blades

Driver assist systems

Audi pre sense safety systems as standard; optional “Tour”, “City”, and “Park” packages; adaptive cruise assist and (remote) park assist plus as highlights

e-tron sport sound

  • Standard AVAS sound is already more sonorous than legally prescribed
  • Optional e-tron sport sound for additional exterior and interior sound, depending on the Audidrive select setting

Controls and displays

Audi virtual cockpit plus (12.3 inches) and MMI touch display (10.1 inches) as standard, plus natural voice control with online connection; head-up display optional; personalization as standard

Infotainment and Audi connect

  • MMI navigation plus with Wi-Fi hotspot as standard, intelligent navigation with e-tron- specific functions
  • Extensive portfolio of Audi connect services; e-tron route planner for calculating the fastest route with the shortest possible charging stops at powerful DC charging points
  • Audi phone box and Bang & Olufsen premium sound system as an option

Craftsmanship meets smart factory

  • Production of the e-tron GT at Audi Böllinger Höfe at the Neckarsulm production site, as a combination of smart factory technology and craftsmanship
  • Carbon-neutral production, use of eco-electricity and biogas
  • Independent, innovative body shop, shared assembly line with the Audi R8

The car in detail: Dynamism, efficiency, and elegance: the Audi e-tron GT quattro and the Audi RS e-tron GT

Electric mobility is becoming dynamic and fascinating, as the Audi e-tron GT proves. The four- door coupé, which will be introduced in the market as an RS model at the same time, reinterprets the classic idea of the gran turismo: Its design is highly emotional, the technology revolutionary. Two powerful electric motors provide confident electric all-wheel drive and stunning road performance. The high-voltage battery with a capacity of 85 kWh (net) enables a range of up to 488 kilometers (298.3 mi, predicted WLTP for the Audi e-tron GT quattro) and can be extremely quickly recharged thanks to its 800-volt technology. Suspension, lights, controls, connection, or e-tron sport sound: The Audi e-tron GT quattro and the RS e-tron GT demonstrate accumulated technical expertise and the Audi brand’s passion for details.

Positioning

The all-electric Audi e-tron SUV and the e-tron Sportback SUV coupé were the pioneers with which Audi successfully embarked on its electric mobility journey. Now the brand is making its second statement: The four-door e-tron GT coupé is a gran turismo with dynamic elegance and an Audi which the world has never seen before. The e-tron GT is powerful, sporty, confident, and emotional. It reflects all the passion with which Audi develops and builds cars.

The RS e-tron GT and the e-tron GT quattro are designed as powerful, confident cars with excellent everyday usability and long-distance capability. They combine perfection, fascination, and innovation to form a technical work of art: Their driving characteristics are founded on progressive engineering skill, the drive is pure fascination, and the design arose from the passion for beauty and perfection that is typical for Audi.

Sporty, electric, pioneering: The e-tron GT is the electric flagship from Audi

The Audi e-tron GT is adding a new chapter to the Audi story: It is a supreme gran turismo, and the RS version comes with distinct dynamic handling. It combines an expressive design language with powerful electric output, high efficiency, and excellent everyday usability. These properties make it a pioneer full of character that is shaping the future of the brand. The e-tron GT brings “Vorsprung durch Technik” to the road and emphasizes the Audi standard as its electric flagship: sporty, electric, and pioneering.

The Audi e-tron GT is targeted in particular sophisticated, performance-oriented car enthusiasts who place great value on sustainability, design, and high-tech. The majority is middle-aged and

well educated, which is why they have a high monthly income and can afford multiple vehicles. They share their passion for sophisticated acceleration and their love for detail, as well as maximum precision and top quality of Audi.

In spring 2021, the fully electric gran turismo will be introduced in the markets in two versions: as an Audi e-tron GT quattro with a base price of EUR 99,800 and as an RS e-tron quattro starting by a price of EUR 138,200 (in Germany). The RS model is the dynamic spearhead of electric mobility at Audi: a system output of 440 kW (598 PS), 0–100 km/h (62.1 mph) in

3.3 seconds (in overboost), and a high-tech suspension with features such as three-chamber air suspension, all-wheel steering (optional), and controlled rear axle differential lock.

Exterior design and aerodynamics

The e-tron GT is an emotional four-door coupé and the new signature of the Audi brand. The electric flagship features an expressive design language that emphasizes the Audi standard of being an innovative automotive design brand that stands for sportiness and progressiveness.

Meaning: emotional signature car and outlook for future design

Following the Audi prologue design study, which offered an outlook for the design language of the subsequent full-size class models as a show car in 2014, the e-tron GT constitutes the next evolutionary stage of the Audi design language. As a gran turismo, it fascinates with its sculptural design. What applies for the current full-size class models applies here, too: Proportions are the foundation of good design. In other words: a long wheelbase, wide track, large wheels, and a flat silhouette. The e-tron GT has exactly these ideal proportions. Its design language is the starting point for the design of future electric models of Audi – they will have a significantly more flowing exterior design than today’s models.

As it is always the case at Audi, the design is not an end in itself but rather the connection between form and function: In line with electric mobility, the design of the e-tron GT enables sophisticated aerodynamics – aesthetics thus also arise from efficiency. The e-tron GT deliberately adopts the established design elements of the e-tron, the first electric car from Audi, and refines them in a targeted manner. These elements include the strongly modeled insert above the door sill trims. It emphasizes the battery pack in the center of the vehicle as the car’s powerhouse.

Electric gran turismo: classic principles and a new perspective

Sportiness and comfort – these are the two classic design principles of a gran turismo. The design of the Audi e-tron GT takes up this idea and adds a new perspective to it: Sustainability plays an important role in electric mobility. It begins with the initial idea and is expressed through the design. The optimized aerodynamics of the e-tron GT are a visible proof of the

pursuit of sustainability. Its low drag coefficient of 0.24 increases the level of efficiency and enables a longer range.

These basic ideas can be also spotted in the interior of the e-tron GT. For example, the dashboard – which is turned towards the driver as typical for sporty Audi models – rests within a spacious interior design that is characteristic for a comfortable and dynamic touring sports car. At the same time, the e-tron GT demonstrates with its leather-free design package, which consists predominantly of recycled materials, that sustainability is an important aspect of the electric gran turismo.

Exterior design: dynamic sculpture with perfect proportions

The fully electric gran turismo gives new impetus to the Audi design language: It is a dynamic sculpture that stands on the road as if sculpted from a full volume.

The Audi e-tron GT proves: The packaging of an electric car with its large battery and the fascinating design of a gran turismo with a flat silhouette and powerful proportions are no contradiction. This is made possible by a recess in the battery pack. The passengers in the rear can put their feet in what is known as the foot garage, which allows them to sit in a lower position and enjoy generous headroom despite the flat roof line. In combination with the wheel arches with up to 21-inch rims and the 2.90-meter (9.5 ft) wheelbase, this solution creates ideal proportions and gives the high-performance GT an extraordinary presence on the road.

With its inverted color scheme, the Singleframe with the Audi rings on the expressively designed front of the e-tron GT is a clear indicator for the electric drive. The radiator grille, which reinterprets the classic honeycomb pattern, is painted in body color for the first time at Audi, and the grille and lateral air inlets are framed by a black mask. While the main purpose of the Singleframe in models with a combustion engine is to cool the engine, in the e-tron GT it conceals the majority of the sensors. Only the lower of the six corners have open sections for air supply.

The technology packaging of the electric drive allows a flat front end and thereby provides the driver a fascinating view over the front end and directly onto the road. This view is focused, due to the fact that the hood is framed by strongly curved fenders on both sides. This unusual perspective and the dynamism of the drive create a driving experience that shapes the character of the electric gran turismo to a great extent.

Side view: a flow of lines

The flow of the design is very obvious in the side view. The elongated hood and flat windshield sink into a quickly sloping roof line. The greenhouse extends tautly over the powerful body. Towards the rear it is sharply drawn in– the gently inclined C-pillars in the rear area flows elegantly into the muscular shoulders of the body.

Sharp edges run across the large wheel arches – these quattro blisters with the pronounced sculptured wheel arches symbolize the electric all-wheel drive. They are a stylistic feature of many Audi models, but nowhere else they are as strongly pronounced as in the e-tron GT. The quattro drive is further emphasized by the combination of a low center of gravity in the main body section and the strong waist in the middle of the car. The lean, elongated “Sportback” cabin is positioned on the body: With its flat roof line, which is another 17 millimeters (0.7 in) lower than in an A7 Sportback, it emphasizes the sporty body line of the e-tron GT.

The lights at the rear are connected by a flat light strip. A visually offset diffuser gives the e-tron GT an unmistakable look within the Audi product portfolio. The spoiler with the integrated spoiler lip runs parallel to the light strip and rounds off the sporty look.

19- to 21-inch rims highlight the powerful design and already signal the sporty capabilities of the e-tron GT while the vehicle is stationary. The color palette comprises nine colors, including the new color tactical green. Depending on the paint finish, the Singleframe is available either in body color on in light Manhattan gray – or in the black styling package, together with the side sill trims and the diffuser. The three different carbon packages are even more exclusive. Audi can also provide the housings of the exterior mirrors and the entire roof in carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) upon request. As standard, the roof is made of heat-insulating glass.

Team work: design meets aerodynamics

Aerodynamics isn’t just the means to an end in the e-tron GT but rather an important design feature. The design of the e-tron GT with its drag coefficient of 0.24 looks as if it was shaped by the wind – and it is. It was developed in close collaboration between designers and aerodynamics engineers.

The air inlets in the lower section in the front play an important role. The upright air curtains on the outside guide the air into the wheel arches in such a way that it flows close to the wheel and then along the side. Most rims feature light blades that are just 2 to 3 millimeters (0.08
0.12 in) thick. This covering further increases the aerodynamic efficiency.

Behind the large ribs under the headlights and behind the openings in the corner of the Singleframe there is a controllable cooling air inlet, which ensures active aerodynamics. For the sake of the flow, the two controllable cool air inlets remain closed as often as possible. When they open in the context of a dynamic driving style, Y-shaped channels send the air to the coolers and into the front wheel arches, in order to cool the brakes.

The second major factor in the concept of active aerodynamics is the rear spoiler, which extends electrically into two different positions depending on the driving situation. It works closely with the smooth underbody that ends in a wide diffuser. This allows the air to flow cleanly off the rear end, and the lift that occurs at the rear axle at high speeds is almost fully compensated.

When the adaptive air suspension (standard in the RS model) lowers the body, it increases this effect by further improving the air flow, handling stability and reducing lift.

The e-tron GT is also at a top level when it comes to aeroacoustics. Its windshield is made of noise-insulating glass as standard, and the side as well as rear window are optional available with this type of glass. Targeted insulation measures throughout the entire body keep annoying noises out of the interior. Components made out of hot-shaped and therefore ultra-high strength steel form the strong backbone of the passenger cell. The battery housing consists of aluminum profiles, and the outer skin is made entirely out of aluminum sheets.

Dimensions: gran turismo par excellence

The Audi e-tron GT has the dimensions of a classic gran turismo: With a wheelbase of 2.90 meters (9.5 ft), it measures 4.99 meters (16.4 ft) in length, 1.96 meters (6.4 ft) in width, and just 1.41 meters (4.6) in height. The luggage compartment provides a volume of 405 liters (14.3 cu ft) and a second luggage compartment below the front hood offers are further 85 liters (2.9 cu ft) of space.

Headlights and lights

The headlights and rear lights are characteristic elements of the exterior design of the e-tron GT and further enhance the expressive exterior design. The LED light signatures at the front and rear feature pronounced three-dimensional modeling and emphasize the emotional look of the e-tron GT. The daytime running lights provide a striking light signature, together with the characteristic blue designer trim of the optional laser high beam light that is at the center of the headlights at Audi for the first time. The sculptural light strip at the rear spans across the entire vehicle width, changing dynamically from a line in the center into ever larger segments towards the outside, which makes the e-tron GT appear even more powerful.

Three variants of headlights are available for the e-tron GT. Audi supplies them in LED technology with dynamic turn signals as standard. The Matrix LED headlights are available as an alternative. Their continuous high beams can shine with maximum brightness without causing glare to other road users. The RS e-tron GT comes with Matrix LED headlights as standard. Topping the range are the Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light. A laser spot is installed next to the low beam module. The laser spot is activated from a speed of 70 km/h (43.5 mph) and doubles the range of the high beam.

Coming home and leaving home animation: character made visible

The top-of-the-line headlights offer another characteristic feature: coming home and leaving home animations at the front and rear. The leaving home sequence is inspired by the power of a sound wave: The illumination of the individual elements builds up quickly and strongly, then

retreats briefly before going all in the second time. All the animations in the RS model are even more dynamic.

Interior design and interior

The interior of the e-tron GT conveys the ultimate gran turismo feeling by highlighting sportiness, comfort, and expanse in equal measure. Sustainable materials also play an important part in the electric sports car.

Interior: sporty and luxuriously comfortable

The strong focus of the interior on the driver, inspired by the “monoposto” idea, is a characteristic of sporty Audi models and the e-tron GT in particular. The central dashboard is tilted slightly towards the left, and the pronounced three-dimensional instrument panel looks light and lean. Its upper section is drawn away from the driver in a large, elegant arc. The display of the Audi virtual cockpit plus stands freely in this space, while the MMI touch monitor is surrounded by a black piano finish bezel that seems to float above the instrument panel. If the ambient lighting package plus is on board, it features a lasered and backlit “e-tron” badge in the right-hand section.

A strong contour separates the upper section of the instrument panel from the lower section which contains the control panel of the standard three-zone automatic air conditioning system with its physical buttons. The flat lateral air vents have a decidedly technical look and underline the width of the interior, with aluminum brackets surrounding their ends. A long arc below the windshield extends from one door to the other. The design of the sporty front door trims visually merges in a straight line into the fender edges of the front section.

The driver and passenger sit in a sporty low position, separated by a wide center console. The compact selector switch for the gears is located on the center tunnel console. Its lean design emphasizes the light sense of space and provides a highly precise haptic control experience. The rear seats offer sufficient space even for adults. The uncompromisingly high quality and processing of the materials reflects the attention to detail with which Audi develops and builds cars.

Sustainability is the new premium: materials, colors, and equipment

Sportiness and sustainability are no contradiction; in combination, they characterize the understanding of luxury in the course of electric mobility at Audi. The e-tron GT proves this with its leather-free design package. The seats are upholstered either with a combination of artificial leather and the Kaskade material or with a mixture of artificial leather and the microfiber material Dinamica. Recycled materials are used in both cases, for example polyester fibers that were made from old plastic bottles, textiles, or residual fibers from selvages. The Dinamica

material is similar to Alcantara, while the Kaskade material, whose seam design is based on the look of the Singleframe, is reminiscent of natural fibers such as wool.

Audi also offers a leather package in various colors as an alternative. The RS design package comprises microfiber material on the hood of the instrument panel, the steering wheel, and the center console trim, with red or gray stitching adding highlights. The floor carpet and floor mats are made from Econyl in both models. This material consists of 100-percent recycled nylon fibers from production waste, fabric and carpet remnants, or old fishing nets.

All materials in the interior of the e-tron GT are processed in factory-level quality. The large application area on the instrument panel is painted in graphite gray or palladium silver (on the RS model) as standard; open-pore walnut wood or matt carbon are available as an alternative. The ambient lighting package plus adds subtle light effects, including the loudspeaker bezels in the doors. In the RS e-tron GT, design elements, colors, and materials from Audi Sport underline the high performance standard.

The front seats are available in three versions. The sport seats with electric eight-way adjustment and artificial leather/pearl Nappa leather covers are standard in the e-tron GT quattro. The RS e-tron GT is equipped with sport seats plus with 14-way adjustment and seat heating. The sport seats plus with 18-way adjustment, pneumatically adjustable side bolsters, climate control, and (upon request) a massage function are available as an option for both models. In both plus variants, the seat center panels feature a perforated honeycomb pattern. The seats in the RS model have an opening in the upper section of the backrest that is covered with a funnel-shaped bezel. The seats and steering wheel feature special badges here, and the pedal caps and footrest are made of stainless steel. The Audi exclusive program from Audi Sport GmbH fulfills many personal customer wishes, in particular with regard to leather, stitching, and seat belts.

Drive and recuperation

The fully electric gran turismo from Audi offers dynamic performance in both engine versions: The e-tron GT quattro accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 4.1 seconds, while the RS model needs 3.3 seconds (in boost mode in each case). The top speed is 245 km/h
(152.2 mph) and 250 km/h (155.3 mph) (governed)

The front electric motors in the e-tron GT quattro outputs 175 kW (238 PS), and the rear motor 320 kW (435 PS). Both electric motors keep reserves available for extreme driving situations, which is why the sum of their individual outputs exceeds the drive’s total output of 350 kW (476 PS) considerably. Up to 390 kW (530 PS) are 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

at the front axle also outputs 175 kW (238 PS), while the motor in the rear outputs 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).

The PSM motors (permanently excited synchronous motors) in the e-tron GT work with great efficiency. The electric motor, its power electronics, and the transmission form a compact block on both axles. The rear electric motor transfers its torques to a two-speed transmission. The short-ratio first gear enables stunning acceleration when starting off with launch control and the associated boost. If the driver decides against making use of this option, the e-tron GT starts off in second gear. Generally speaking, the long-ratio second gear improves efficiency and also provides large amounts of reserve power.

quattro reloaded: electric all-wheel drive
The e-tron GT quattro and the RS e-tron GT usually drive with electric all-wheel drive, only the “efficiency” mode of the Audi drive select dynamic handling system prioritizing the front-wheel drive. In event of a slippery road surface, high power requirements, or fast cornering, the electric motor for rear-wheel drive is also activated here, and around five times faster than with a mechanical quattro drivetrain. The electric all-wheel drive regulates the drive torque distribution between the axles – continuously, fully variably, and within a few thousandths of a second. The quattro principle of the four-wheel drive that Audi introduced to the market more than 40 years ago presents itself on a new, fascinating technological level.

When the driver releases the right-hand pedal, the drive usually switches to sailing, allowing the gran turismo to glide with elegance and efficiency. By contrast, the car recuperates in overrun mode in the “dynamic” mode of Audi drive select. Regardless of the mode, the driver can use the pedals on the steering wheel to adjust two manual recuperation levels or select an automatic level in the MMI system. In this case, the predictive efficiency assist regulates sailing and recuperation on the basis of data from the navigation route and the on-board sensors.

While braking, the electric motors perform decelerations alone up to around 0.3 g, i.e. the vast majority of all brake applications in everyday driving. This allows them to recuperate up to
265 kW. The hydraulic wheel brakes are activated only when the driver brakes very heavily, with recuperation remaining active almost until the vehicle comes to a standstill. In all driving situations full acceleration, dynamic handling, sailing or brake recuperation – the gran turismo remains unshakably stable because its control systems for brakes, suspension, drive, and power electronics are closely connected and work together quickly.

Battery and thermal management

The lithium-ion battery system of the Audi e-tron GT quattro and the RS e-tron GT is located between the axles, at the car’s lowest point. This provides a low center of gravity appropriate for a sports car and a weight distribution between the front and rear axles that is very close to the ideal value of 50:50.

The high-voltage battery can store 85 kWh of energy net (93 kWh gross) in both models. It integrates 33 cell modules, each of them comprises twelve pouch cells with flexible outer skin. 30 modules form the lower level that features a wide recess in the rear section which creates space for the rear passengers’ feet. The upper “floor” of the battery contains three further modules situated below the rear seats. The connections, fuses, and the main control unit are located under the center console. The system voltage of 800 volts enables a high continuous output and shortens the charging duration; in addition, it reduces the weight of and space required by the wiring.

The inner structure of the battery that contains the modules, the frame surrounding it, and the cover plates are made of lightweight aluminum. The battery system contributes significantly to the rigidity and crash safety of the body to which it is attached via 28 screws. Beneath its cell space there is a compound structure of flat extruded sections through which coolant flows that circulates in its own low-temperature circuit. The battery’s feel-good temperature is between 30 and 35 degrees Celsius.

High-tech thermal management: four separate coolant circuits

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 keeps the performance of the drive 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.

The standard equipment of the e-tron GT includes a heat pump that heats the interior with the waste heat of the high-voltage components. It can reduce the loss of range caused by climate control significantly, especially in winter when it replaces the thermoelectric heating element. Customers can manage pre-entry climate control of the interior and charging via their smartphones using the myAudi app. The e-tron GT is optionally equipped with a deluxe thermal conditioning system that also includes the exterior mirrors and the rear window.

From 11 to 270 kW: AC and DC charging

The charging ports of the gran turismo are located behind the front wheels. Both sides feature connections for alternating current (AC) and there is also a connection for direct current (DC) on

the right-hand side. The Audi e-tron GT is delivered to its customers with two charging cables: one mode 3 cable for public terminals and the charging system “compact” for the garage. The intelligent charging system “connect” is available as an alternative. Its internet connection enables both control via the myAudi app and function updates. In cooperation with a suitable home energy management system, it offers further smart functions, such as charging when electricity is less expensive under a variable electricity rate.

The e-tron GT can charge with 11 kW AC as standard, which allows it to recharge an empty battery over night. An optional charger for 22 kW will follow shortly after the market introduction. At a sufficiently powerful DC terminal, the electric gran turismo achieves a peak charging capacity of up to 270 kW. This allows it to recharge energy for up to 100 kilometers (62.1 mi) in just over five minutes. Charging from 5 to 80 percent SoC (state of charge) takes less than 23 minutes under ideal conditions.

Customers in Europe can use the Audi brand’s own e-tron Charging Service, which currently comprises around 200,000 public charging points. They can access these charging points with one card. Audi customers pay a uniform tariff in 26 countries. They enjoy favorable conditions in the Europe-wide fast-charging network from Ionity. In the first year, Audi covers the basic fee for the transit rate, which offers a reduced price for electricity.

In the NEDC cycle, the Audi e-tron GT quattro consumes 19.6–18.8 kWh of energy per
100 kilometers (62.1 mi) on average, the RS model consumes 20.2–19.3 kWh. This results in average ranges of up to 488 kilometers (303.2 mi) and 472 kilometers (293.3 mi) (predicted WLTP).

Suspension

The suspension is one of the elements that play a crucial role in shaping the harmonious overall character of the Audi e-tron GT quattro and the RS e-tron GT. It is a congenial partner to the dynamic drive, while always remaining confident and relaxed no matter how much strain is put on it. The gran turismo philosophy can also be perfectly experienced here.

The wheel suspensions are designed as a sporty double wishbone construction. Almost all parts, including the links and subframes, are forged or cast from aluminum. The electromechanical steering has a sporty and direct ratio without appearing abrupt. Audi supplies all-wheel steering as an option. A spindle drive turns the rear wheels by a maximum of 2.8 degrees here – in the opposite direction up to a speed of around 50 km/h (31.1 mph) to increase agility, and slightly in the same direction from a speed of around 50 km/h (31.1 mph) in the interest of stability.

Up to 21 inches and 420 millimeters (16.5 in): wheels and brakes
The portfolio of alloy wheels starts with the 19-inch format for the Audi e-tron GT quattro and – for both models – ends with the 21-inch format. The 20-inch format in the middle (standard for the RS e-tron GT) is available in three designs. A new production process used for the aluminum from which these wheels are made reduces net CO2 emissions considerably. Almost all tires are optimized in terms of rolling resistance; for the 21-inch format, performance-focused tires are available as an alternative.

There are also differences between brakes in the two models. Steel disks come as standard with the e-tron GT quattro, while the RS model is fitted with cast iron disks with a tungsten carbide coating (optional in the e-tron GT quattro). It increases the braking performance and reduces wear and therefore brake dust. At the same time, it prevents flash rust, a typical phenomenon seen in many electric cars that do not use their wheel brakes very often. Ten-piston fixed calipers grip the carbide disks at the front axle. At the peak of the portfolio, brake disks made of carbon fiber ceramic, which are especially lightweight, powerful, and durable, are available as an option for both models. They have a diameter of 420 millimeters (16.5 in) at the front axle.

Precisely controlled: air suspension and damping

While the adaptive suspension is optional in the Audi e-tron GT quattro, it is on board as standard in the RS model. Its three-chamber air suspension enables comfortable basic suspension and can adjust the body to different heights – 22 millimeters (0.9 in) downward and 20 millimeters (0.8 in) upward. The chambers in each spring can be activated and deactivated individually to suit the driving situation, and they work closely together with the controlled dampers (standard). Both systems are managed by a central control unit, the electronic chassis platform (ECP).

In the Audi drive select dynamic handling system (standard), the driver can specify how the air suspension, dampers, electric motors, two-speed transmission, and controlled rear-axle differential lock should operate. The driver can switch between the modes “comfort,” “efficiency,” “dynamic,” and “individual” via a switch. In “efficiency” mode, the body is lowered to the low level, in order to promote a better air flow and the top speed is limited to 140 km/h (87.0 mph). In “dynamic” mode, the electric all-wheel drive operates with a rear bias and the suspension systems are set to a sporty mode.

For dynamic handling: rear-axle differential lock

A mechanical part at the rear axle complements the electric all-wheel drive. The Audi e-tron GT quattro comes as standard with a differential lock with fixed locking values during thrust as well as traction. It improves traction and stability and reduces load change reactions; minor brake and steering interventions on the wheels round off its work. The controlled rear-axle differential lock is available as an option and is standard in the RS e-tron GT. The multi-plate clutch is its core element. It can be actuated fully variably, and the locking range extends from zero to 100

percent. The driver can perceive this on slippery road surfaces and during maximum full-stop braking: In this case, the lock opens up completely, allowing the Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC) to brake each wheel with great precision.

Driver assist systems

The Audi e-tron GT quattro and the RS e-tron GT are introduced to the market with a wide range of driver assist systems. The Audi pre sense front and Audi pre sense basic safety systems are standard. The same applies to the lane departure warning system. The optional systems are subdivided into “Tour,” “City,” and “Park” packages. The assist package plus comprises all three. The night vision assist and surround view cameras (also available in the “Park” package) are optional. All systems use the central driver assistance controller (zFAS), which uses the sensors’ data to continuously compute an exact model of the vehicle’s environment.

The adaptive cruise assist, which assists the driver with longitudinal and lateral guidance in many situations, is the most important system in the “Tour” package. When the predictive efficiency assist (standard) is active, the adaptive cruise assist decelerates and accelerates the gran turismo in such a way that it consumes as little energy as possible.

The (remote) park assist plus is one of the highlights of the “Park” package. It maneuvers the Audi e-tron GT into and out of a parallel or bay parking space by simply pushing a button. The driver is still responsible for the maneuver. He can remain inside the car or get out – in this case, he starts and supervises the parking maneuver via the myAudi app on their smartphone. By keeping the corresponding button pressed, the car will roll into the space, in multiple maneuvers if necessary. Once it has reached its final position, it switches off the drive, activates the parking lock, and locks the doors.

e-tron sport sound

Since the dynamic work of art should also sound good, Audi has composed an unique sound for the e-tron GT. The optional e-tron sport sound comprises two control units and amplifiers in the luggage compartment. They generate a separate exterior and interior sound, which is output by two loudspeakers each outside and inside the vehicle. Data about the rotational speed of the electric motors, the load, the vehicle speed, and other parameters serves as the basis for the digital sound, a synthetic sound that offers an authentic and finely nuanced impression of the work performed by the drive system.

Drivers can modulate the sound via Audi drive select. In the “efficiency” profile, only the AVAS (Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System) is active, which already generates a broader sound than is legally required. The exterior sound is fuller and has a better quality in “comfort” mode.
The “dynamic” profile makes it even more powerful, and the interior sound is added. The optional e-tron sport sound is sporty, voluminous, and high-quality at the same time and is an acoustic expression of the progressive gran turismo character.

Controls and displays

In terms of controls and displays, the e-tron GT quattro and the RS e-tron GT follow the current Audi concept: All information appears on two large displays. The driver operates the Audi virtual cockpit plus (12.3 inches) via the multifunction steering wheel and controls the central MMI touch display (10.1 inches) via touch. Behind the control and display functions in the e-tron

GT quattro and the RS e-tron GT is the state-of-the-art third generation modular infotainment platform (MIB 3).

The freestanding Audi virtual cockpit plus behind the flat-bottomed steering wheel provides a high resolution of 1,920 x 720 pixels and allows the driver to switch between three screens: classic, sport, and e-tron. In the e-tron view, the focus is on the large powermeter that displays the status of the drive train and all important information on electric driving. The driver manages the infotainment, navigation, comfort functions, and text input via the MMI touch display, which provides acoustic feedback.

The optional head-up display can project important information onto the windshield. The image window is in the driver’s field of vision, with the projection appearing to float about three meters (9.8 ft) in front of them. The personalization is a convenient function of the Audi e-tron GT. Up to six users can store each of their preferred settings in their individual profiles.

Infotainment and Audi connect

Eleven antennas, all of them are invisibly integrated into the car, connect the e-tron GT with the outside world. They receive and transmit audio, LTE, Bluetooth, and GPS signals, and thereby connect the fully electric gran turismo to the environment and its owner in many different ways. The customer can control many functions via the free myAudi app on the smartphone.

The MMI navigation plus media center comes as standard in both e-tron GT models. It supports the fast LTE Advanced transmission standard with integrated Wi-Fi hotspot for the passengers’ devices. The navigation system offers destination suggestions based on previously driven routes. The route calculation both in the car and online is performed on the servers of service provider. They use real-time data from the entire traffic situation.

The Audi connect online services are split into two packages. The Audi connect emergency call & service with Audi connect remote & control section enables the remote control of the locking system, charging, and climate control. The Audi connect navigation & infotainment package includes services such as traffic information online, navigation with Google EarthTM, and Amazon Alexa. Car-to-X services can warn in case of a hazard and can help to find free parking spots on the roadside or allow the driver to surf the green wave by communicating with traffic lights.

The e-tron route planner, a further service from Audi connect, calculates the fastest route with the shortest possible charging stops at powerful DC charging stations. Here the e-tron route planner takes traffic data and the driver’s driving profile into account. Moreover, the e-tron route planner is connected to the car’s thermal management. This enables high-speed charging if the driver has selected a powerful DC charging station as the destination in the navigation system. Roughly half an hour before arrival there, the thermal management intensifies the cooling of the battery so that it can charge as quickly as possible. Should the battery still be very cold shortly after the car is started in winter, it is heated up for fast charging.

Attractive hardware modules supplement the infotainment portfolio. The Audi phone box, which is available in two versions, links smartphones to the vehicle’s antenna and charges them inductively. The Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System delivers an output of 710 watts. Among the 16 loudspeakers two 3D loudspeakers are located in the A-pillars.

Craftsmanship meets smart factory

The e-tron GT is the first fully electric car from Audi which is built in Germany. It rolls off the assembly line in the Audi Böllinger Höfe at the production site in Neckarsulm. The small-series production facility has been expanded and converted for its new role. The skilled craftsmanship of the previous facility has been supplemented with digital processes and smart technologies. During the expansion, production planners made use of new virtual methods. The production for the e-tron GT was designed without any physical prototypes – an innovation at Audi.

The body shop combines the skilled craftsmanship of the employees with the full potential of automated production technology. It consists of an innovative body assembly line along which each body passes twice. It is constructed around what is called the two-way framer, in which ten robots are used to attach the inside and outside. It combines all manufacturing steps for joining the side panels in a single system – thus making production of the Audi e-tron GT possible on the existing floorspace. The new correlation-free inline measuring procedure for the bodies guarantees even greater accuracy and can respond very quickly to minute deviations. At the end of the body assembly line the precise craftsmanship comes into play: Experienced workers fit the add-on parts and check the finished body.

The e-tron GT shares the assembly line with the Audi R8 high-performance sports car – this integration of two technically completely different cars is unique in the Volkswagen Group. The expanded assembly line includes 36 instead of the previous 16 cycles. Both models are moved with the same driverless transport vehicles and moved on an electrically powered monorail system, with humans and robots working side by side at one station of the line. Once completed, every car is driven 40 kilometers (24.9 mi) on public roads, which also include highway and city passage sections.

Production of the Audi e-tron GT quattro and the RS e-tron GT at Böllinger Höfe has a net zero carbon footprint. Just like the entire Neckarsulm site, the production there uses 100 percent eco-electricity, with a combined heat and power plant fired with biogas providing the necessary heat for the Böllinger Höfe. Emissions that cannot yet be avoided are compensated with carbon credits from certified climate protection projects.

In addition, Audi also relies on resource-conserving vehicle manufacturing. For example, the production at the Böllinger Höfe avoids the use of paper and packaging and uses closed-loop systems. The aluminum sheet waste that accumulates in the press shop, for example during the production of the side wall frame, is returned to the supplier, where it is reconditioned and then reused at Audi. Audi has launched a pilot project for plastic recycling. Plastic waste is processed into fibers, and these filaments are then used in 3D printers to manufacture technical aids for the production process.

Fuel/electric power consumption of the models named above:

Information depends on the equipment selected

Audi e-tron GT quattro

Combined electric power consumption in kWh/100 km (62.1 mi): 19.6–18.8 (NEFZ) Combined CO2 emissions in g/km (g/mi): 0

Audi RS e-tron GT

Combined electric power consumption in kWh/100 km (62.1 mi): 20.2–19.3 (NEFZ) Combined CO2 emissions in g/km (g/mi): 0

The indicated consumption and emissions values were determined according to the legally specified measuring methods. Since September 1, 2017, type approval for certain new vehicles has been performed in accordance with the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP), a more realistic test procedure for measuring fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Since September 1, 2018, the WLTP has gradually replaced the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). Due to the realistic test conditions, the fuel consumption and CO2 emission values measured are in many cases higher than the values measured according to the NEDC. Vehicle taxation could change accordingly as of September 1, 2018. Additional information about the differences between WLTP and NEDC is available at www.audi.de/wltp.

At the moment, it is still mandatory to communicate the NEDC values. In the case of new vehicles for which type approval was performed using WLTP, the NEDC values are derived from the WLTP values. WLTP values can be provided voluntarily until their use becomes mandatory. If NEDC values are indicated as a range, they do not refer to one, specific vehicle and are not an integral element of the offer. They are provided only for the purpose of comparison between the various vehicle types. Additional equipment and accessories (attachment parts, tire size, etc.) can change relevant vehicle parameters, such as weight, rolling resistance and aerodynamics and, like weather and traffic conditions as well as individual driving style, influence a vehicle’s electrical consumption, CO2 emissions and performance figures.

Further information on official fuel consumption figures and the official specific CO2 emissions of new passenger cars can be found in the “Guide on the fuel economy, CO2 emissions and power consumption of all new passenger car models,” which is available free of charge at all sales dealerships and from DAT Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH, Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen, Germany (www.dat.de).

The Audi Group, with its brands Audi, Ducati and Lamborghini, is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the premium segment. It is present in more than 100 markets worldwide and produces at 17 locations in 11 countries. 100 percent subsidiaries of AUDI AG include Audi Sport GmbH (Neckarsulm, Germany), Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. (Sant’Agata Bolognese, Italy) and Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A. (Bologna, Italy).

In 2020, the Audi Group delivered to customers about 1.693 million automobiles of the Audi brand, 7,430 sports cars of the Lamborghini brand and 48,042 motorcycles of the Ducati brand. In the 2019 fiscal year, AUDI AG achieved total revenue of € 55.7 billion and an operating profit of € 4.5 billion. At present, about 87,000 people work for the company all over the world, 60,000 of them in Germany. With new models, innovative mobility offerings and other attractive services, Audi is becoming a provider of sustainable, individual premium mobility.