Audi reveals its e-tron GT halo EV

The Audi e-tron GT was unveiled at a virtual event in Germany. Photos: Audi

Audi has unveiled the production version of its electric e-tron GT that is a rival to Porsche’s Taycan and Tesla's Model S.

The four-door high-performance coupe is the start of a new era for the German brand as premium and luxury manufacturers up their EV line-up, and is set to be one of the main rivals price-wise to the Model S.

At 4.99m long, 1.96m wide, and only 1.41m tall, the e-tron GT is just under 3cm longer and taller than the Porsche Taycan, which shares its architecture, and is virtually identical in width. The roof is 17mm lower than an Audi A7 Sportback.

Due to arrive in New Zealand in mid-2021, there will be two models introduced to the local market, the e-tron GT quattro and the RS e-tron GT. Both models “are powerful, fast, and dynamic, and both have zero local emissions, reinterpreting the concept of the Gran Turismo” says the brand.

The E-tron GT is 3cm longer and taller than the Porsche Taycan, which shares its architecture.

“The Audi e-tron GT shapes the future of Audi,” said Dean Sheed, general manager, Audi NZ. “It combines the style, performance, luxury, useability and commitment to sustainability that defines Audi’s vision of premium mobility.

“New Zealand is a genuine world leader in its take-up of Audi RS models – there is a real love of Audi performance cars in this country. By the same token, Kiwis are famously proud of their environment. 

“The Audi e-tron GT is a major step in the direction of combining incredible performance with a steadfast commitment to sustainability – and I think New Zealanders will appreciate that.”

The Audi e-tron GT quattro and the RS e-tron GT will be available in New Zealand.

New Zealand specifications and pricing will be announced closer to the local launch.

The e-tron GT has a sleek coupe appearance with practicality, while achieving up to 440kW (475kW in boost mode), a range of up to 487 kilometres.

Its level of technology and luxury is expected to position it as Audi’s halo model.
Developed by Audi Sport, the e-tron GT is the first electric model in the renowned high performance RS family of vehicles. The e-tron GT Quattro generates 350kW of power and 650Nm of torque, while the RS e-tron GT achieves maximum power of 440kW and maximum torque of 830Nm. Launch control adds a boost function, which can increase the power figures to 390kW and 475kW respectively.

The Audi e-tron GT has a range of 487km, and DC fast charging is available.

The range of up to 487 kilometres is made possible by the battery’s net capacity of 85kWh, and the 800-volt technology enables fast DC charging with an output of up to 270 kW.

The suspension has been engineered to balance dynamism and comfort, again in the spirit of a gran turismo, and features advanced 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 e-tron GT has a sleek coupe appearance with practicality, while achieving up to 440kW.