The e-tron 55 Sportback quattro, is a more sporting version of the e-tron 55 quaqttro which has been on sale in the UK since mid-2019. Aesthetical differences include a more heavily curved, coupe-like roofline and liftback-style tailgate. Other subtle changes include more aggressively styled bumpers and headlights featuring Audi’s new digital matrix LED technology. Market introduction in Europe is scheduled for spring of 2020.
Thanks to the optional virtual exterior mirrors, which use an integrated camera to project live video onto high-contrast OLED displays in the transition between the instrument panel and the door, it has a drag coefficient of just 0.25. which is among the most aerodynamically efficient production SUV’s. Resulting in a range of up to 240miles on a single battery charge.
The drivetrain uses two differently specified asynchronous electric motors, one up front which generates peaks of 181bhp and 182lbft of torque and the second rear motor producing 221bhp & 232ib ft. Together providing a maximum output of 402bhp & 490ib ft when boost mode is selected which is limited to 8 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 124.3mph. In drive mode S the coupe can sprint from 0 to 62.1mph in 5.7seconds,
Electric all-wheel drive ensures outstanding traction and dynamism on any terrain. It continuously regulates the ideal drive torque distribution between both axels-within fractions of a second. In most driving situations the Sportback relies exclusively on its rear motor for exceptional efficiency
The battery system stores 95 kWh of gross energy (86.5 kWh net) and operates at a rated voltage of 396 volts. During deceleration actions the battery is charged primarily by the rear electric motor, which acts as a generator. Attaining up to 30% of its range through recuperation.
Audi offers a range of solutions for home charging. The standard compact charging system is suitable for a simple 230-volt connection & for a 400-volt three-phase outlet with an output of up to 11 kw. The combination with a suitable home energy management system allows the vehicle to be charged with self-generated solar power.
The interior is an elegant lounge featuring a seamless blend of design & technology. An arc that spans the instrument panel, extending door to door, harmoniously integrates the cover for the virtual cockpit. The instrument panel with its two touch displays is angled towards the driver. When deactivated, the upper of these blends almost invisibly into the large gloss-black surround.
On the upper 12.1-inch touch screen, the driver controls the infotainment, telephony, navigation, and dedicated e-tron settings. The lower 8.6-inch display is used to input text and to operate the convenience functions and climate control. The menu structure is intuitively logical and flat in the same way as a smartphone. The driver can also activate a host of functions using voice control.
The e-tron Sportback is Priced from £79,900 on-the- road (For the 55 S line) 0r £85,900 for the 55 Launch Edition.
This compares to the e-tron 50 Technik which starts at £59,900 OTR.