Audi RS e-tron GT is one of the world’s quickest cars [Update]

Audi further expanded its range of EVs in 2021 by adding two performance-focused models in the form of the Audi e-tron GT quattro and Audi RS e-tron GT. These two four-door grand tourers share the architecture with the Porsche Taycan along with quite some amount of technology with the first-ever electric car from Porsche. However they are not the same as the Taycan is an outright sports car and the e-tron GT is built for a more relaxed drive.

Design

The Audi e-tron GT features a sleek design that is characterized by taut surfaces and bold creases. The front fascia carries a blanked-off single-frame grille replete with a honeycomb pattern reminiscent of the grilles seen on ICE models in the RS lineup. Other highlights of the front-end include a set of matrix LED headlamps, large air-dams, and black trim that runs on the perimeter of the shut-off grille. The side profile is characterized by a sloping roofline and the ‘Sportback’ rear, while the tail-end carries LED taillights that are connected by a light bar that runs across the width of the posterior. 

Typical of electric models in the Ingolstadt-based carmaker’s lineup, the Audi e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT feature many functional design elements that aim to improve the airflow around the vehicle. The air intakes on the bumper, for instance, channelize the air to the sides other than even keeping the brakes cool. Each headlight is flanked by a controllable cool air inlet to improve aerodynamics. Meanwhile, the rear spoiler is set in either of the two available positions depending upon the speed. The e-tron GT measures 4,990 mm in length, 1,960 mm in width, and has a boot space of 405 liters. 

Interior

Inside, the Audi e-tron GT has a leather-free cabin that paves the way for a sustainable future. The 14-way-adjustable sport seats can be dressed either in artificial leather and Kaskade or in a mixture of artificial leather and a microfiber material called Dinamica. The upholstery is either prepared from recycled materials from old plastic bottles and residual fibers from selvages. The luxurious yet eco-friendly interior comes with a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with an MMI interface and a 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit all-digital instrument console. Optional extras include an ambient lighting package.  

Source: Audi/Youtube

Specifications

In the e-tron GT quattro, the dual synchronous electric motors with 93kWh Li-ion battery offer a maximum power of 469 PS/350 kW. Up to 522 hp/389 kW is available through a boost that lasts approx. 2.5 seconds. The peak torque is pegged at 630 Nm (640 Nm in boost mode). In the RS e-tron GT, the dual synchronous electric motors with 84 kWh battery output 598 PS/440 kW-830Nm. The power is increased to 646PS/482kW in the boost mode. 

The Audi e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT can accelerate from zero to 62 mph in 4.1 seconds and 3.3 seconds in boost mode, respectively. The former has an electronically governed top speed of 152 mph, and the latter tops out at 155.3 mph. As per the WLTP standard, the e-tron GT and the RS e-tron GT have a driving range of 303.2 miles and 293.3 miles, respectively.

Thanks to a high system voltage of 800 volts, the Audi e-tron GT supports charging at up to 270 kW. Five minutes of rapid charging can give up to 100 km (62.1 miles) of range. In less than 22.5 minutes, rapid charging can increase the available charging from five to 80%.

The Audi e-tron rides on Hankook’s ‘Ventus S1 evo 3’ tires in 225/55R19 XL 103Y specification at the front and 275/45R19 XL 108Y specification at the rear. Hankook says that it has adapted these tires for EVs for reduced noise (approx. 3 decibels). The company has reinforced them with “bead-packing technology,” expecting the high stress they would undergo in such high-performance electric sports cars. Thanks to high lateral stiffness, these tires don’t compromise on handling at high speeds.

Audi e-tron GT production

Audi produces the e-tron GT family at its Bollinger Hofe factory in Neckarsulm, Germany, alongside the R8. Prices start at EUR 99,800 (incl. 19% VAT) in Germany and USD 99,900 in the USA.

Customers buying the new ultimate Audi e-tron model in America benefit from three years of DC fast charging sessions at Electrify America charging stations. Electrify America plans to expand its network to about 800 charging stations with around 3,500 chargers by the year-end.

Audi e-tron GT & Audi RS e-tron GT FAQs

Featured image: Audi