Audi E-tron models earn 'S' badges with high output figures

MANILA: The new Audi E-tron S and E-tron S Sportback have earned the right to bear an “S” on their appellations as the first volume production BEV (battery electric vehicles) to utilize the combined power of three electric motors are now reaching a peak of 973Nm.

The fully electric flagship Audi models will also incorporate intelligent drive control that increases handling agility and security to a new level in the two all-wheel-driven (AWD) variants.

The iconic performance of the new Audi E-tron S and E-tron S Sportback more than suits its emblem. This is especially true, given that the complete stash of 973Nm of torque and 496hp of power output is available to a driver for eight-second boost periods.

The new S models are fitted with two electric motors on the front and rear axles, which allows them to become the first volume production electric vehicles (EVs) of the auto brand.

The drive layout enables the efficient utilization of the modular construction principle, in which the powerful electric motor providing power to the rear axle in the default E-tron 55 is included in an adapted form on the front axle.

On the other hand, the two modified samples of the front electric motor from E-tron 55 function at the rear.

On a full charge of its high-voltage battery, the Audi E-tron S and Audi E-tron S Sportback can attain a range of up to 359 km and 364 km (preliminary values), respectively, according to the WLTP test cycle.

For enhanced efficiency, only the rear electric motors are involved as long as the Audi E-tron S and the E-tron S Sportback are functioning in normal driving mode. The front electric motor enters the picture when the driver demands more efficient performance, or potentially before traction is disrupted.

The drivetrain has a more prominent rear bias compared to the standard e-tron models. If the ESC stabilization control is changed to Sport and the Audi drive select dynamic handling system to Dynamic mode for maximized performance, the cornering attitude is more modifiable. This is ideal in the transverse plane, as they can perform regulated drifts.

The importance of the time-honored “S” emblem is communicated visually in the E-tron S and E-tron S Sportback through the rear and front bumpers with prominent contours and noticeable inlets.

The badge is also conveyed through wheel arches that are 23mm broader each, with the rear diffuser insert spanning virtually the complete width of the body.

Front and rear detailing in trademark aluminum and silver exterior mirror housings also settle beyond doubt that the SUVs are part of the exceptional Audi S Quattro family.

Both vehicles can be fitted with digital matrix LED headlights as an alternative, which is deemed as another world first in terms of the mass manufacturing that Audi presented with the E-tron Sportback in 2019.

Every light is segregated into 1.3 million pixels and can be regulated with high accuracy, which opens up numerous new functionality opportunities.

Quiet confidence is exhibited through the interior of the Audi E-tron models, which has a dark color finish. In terms of darkness, the atmosphere is improved through ambient or contour lighting package.

As the current introductions to the rapidly-growing E-tron family, the two new S models are naturally fitted with the digital MMI touch response control system with two extensive central displays.

The Audi Virtual Cockpit is directly placed in front of the driver, who can choose an exceptional E-tron screen that emphasizes exclusively on the electric drive functionality of the vehicle.

A head-up display can also be included to provide relevant information more efficiently onto the windscreen in the field of vision of the driver.

The MMI navigation plus control and infotainment system is also added as standard. Apart from its numerous functions is the third generation modular infotainment platform (MIB3), which accomplishes all tasks at remarkably fast processing speeds.

The new Audi E-tron S and E-tron S Sportback will be launched this week before dealer orders begin soon.

Photo from Audi

Also read: Audi e-tron Sportback to roll out this summer