Following yesterday’s lightly camo-covered teaser images, Audi has released full details and photos of its all-electric e-tron GT concept, which is slated to enter production in about two years. Chances are, the production version won’t differ much from the concept you see here. And because this is the LA Auto Show, the concept’s debut was also a huge star-studded party. Even Ironman himself, Robert Downey, Jr. came for the festivities.
The e-tron GT will be Audi’s next all-electric production model, following the e-tron SUV and e-tron Sportback. Described as flat, wide and with a long wheelbase, the e-tron GT has the proportions of a classic Grand Turismo, though it’s described as a four-door coupe.
To help offset the weight of the battery powertrain, the concept’s body is made of lightweight materials, specifically carbon fiber and generous doses of aluminum. Audi outright admits development was done alongside sister VW Group brand Porsche, which makes sense consider this concept shares much of its underpinning with the also upcoming Porsche Taycan. But Audi is also quick to point out the e-tron GT is still very much an Audi.
With its sportback body style, the e-tron GT concept very much reminds us of the Audi A7. Both have a sloping roofline that extends well into the rear, a design trait Audi promises we’ll be seeing more of with future models. Its wheel arches and shoulders are beautifully sculpted, thanks to the genius of Audi design boss Marc Lichte. Also notice how the cabin tapers strongly toward the rear.
The concept also spent time in the wind tunnel as the shape of the air vents, wheel arches, and solid rear diffuser were all dictated by this. Even the 22-inch five twin-spoke wheels were designed with function in mind. They also look pretty darn sweet. Up front is, of course, Audi’s trademark single frame large grille, with the top half painted in body color and the honeycomb pattern featured on RS models. The LED headlights feature laser high-beam and a new visual signature that will soon find its way to future production models. Those large air inlets help cool the assemblies, battery, and brakes. Even the hood’s surface was sculpted in a way to better help with airflow.
The interior can accommodate up to four passengers in style. Although what you see here will be toned down some for the production version, the general design won’t deviate that much. The center console and large touchscreen make the driver and front passenger seat a wonderful place to be. Even the sports seats were inspired by motor racing.
Audi also specifically points out that absolutely no animal-based products were used. The entire interior is vegan, featuring synthetic leather on the seats and trim surfaces. The fabrics for the seat cushions were made from recycled fibers, while a microfiber material adorns the headlining and window pillar trim. Heck, even the floor carpet is made from recycled fishing nets.
And because there’s no internal combustion engine, the e-tron GT features a trunk and a ‘frunk’, with 15.9 cubic feet and 3.5 cubic feet of storage, respectively. As for performance (we knew you’ve been waiting for this part), Audi claims the e-tron GT produces a total of 590 hp thanks to a pair of electric motors mounted to the front and rear axles. Torque is put down to all four wheels.
The electronic control system coordinates the drive between the axles as well as between left and right wheels, meaning optimum traction and just the desired amount of slip. Audi predicts a 0-62 mph time in about 3.5 seconds and 0-100 in just over 12 seconds, while top speed is regulated to 149 mph.
The concept can already achieve a range of over 248.5 miles thanks to a 90 kWh lithium-ion battery, located under the floor between the front and rear axles. As with all EVs with this layout, the e-tron GT has a very low center of gravity. There’s also an energy recuperation system that increases range by up to 30 percent. Charging can be done in a few ways, such as simply using a cable and plugging it in to a charger. Because it’s fitted with an 800-volt system, an 80 percent charge can be achieved in only 20 minutes. Wireless charging, via a charging pad on the ground, is also possible.
If all goes to plan, Audi will begin production of the e-tron GT in 2020 with first deliveries expected in 2021. Word has it Ironman has already placed an order.
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