912-HP AUDI RS E-TRON GT PERFORMANCE IS AUDI'S MOST POWERFUL CAR YET

Months after the updated Porsche Taycan was revealed, Audi's sister car, the e-tron GT, has been revealed with new styling, updated interiors, and stronger performance. The suspension and infotainment system have also been revised. Importantly, the driving range has been increased while the rear electric motor has been made lighter. Let's start with the revised electric drivetrains.

The S e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT use permanent-magnet synchronous motors (PSM) on the front axle, producing 235 horsepower. The GT derivative receives new power electronics for the front axle, with an updated pulse inverter for higher discharge currents. At the rear, another PSM produces around 556 hp. In the S e-tron GT, this makes for a combined output of 670 hp, whereas the RS e-tron GT offers 844 hp. The new RS e-tron GT performance, however, produces a strong 912 horses, making it the most powerful Audi ever built. Even the 'base' models are exceptionally fast, as you would expect. The S e-tron GT needs just 3.4 seconds to reach 62 mph, while the RS shaves 0.6 seconds off that time.

Astonishing Performance

The performance variant needs just 2.5 seconds to achieve the same speed. The S e-tron GT has a top speed of 152 mph, while the RS models run out of steam at 155 mph. Audi says the motors have been borrowed from the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, which underpins the new Q6 e-tron and Porsche Macan EV. The RS models receive a new boost function that increases horsepower by 94 hp. The boost system can be activated for ten seconds, providing a healthy bump in acceleration and power delivery.

Braking power has also been improved. The S e-tron GT gets standard steel discs and black calipers. The RS models receive tungsten carbide-coated brake discs, which can be specified as an option on the S models. Customers can also opt for carbon fiber ceramic discs across the range. The lightened electric motor on the rear axle will also help handling; Audi has reduced weight by 22.04 lbs and strengthened the driveshaft to ensure smoother power distribution.

Sophisticated Suspension Irons Out Bumps, Improves Cornering

The biggest advancement in the handling department is the suspension. The base setup is a newly developed air suspension system with two-chamber technology, improving ride quality and dynamics. An active suspension system is available as an optional extra. The new drive select dynamic handling system allows the driver to change the vehicle's characteristics. There are three profiles to choose from (Comfort, Dynamic, and Efficiency), while the S derivative receives a configurable mode. RS models get two individually configurable modes, namely RS1 and RS2. The performance trim gets a special performance mode.

Audi claims the vehicle body remains level during acceleration, steering, and braking. This, says the manufacturer, provides a precise steering response, making the vehicle even more fun to drive in the twisties. When you're just cruising along, the active suspension aims to eliminate vibrations permeating through the car, even when driving over bumps. A comfort entry feature can also increase the ride height from 2.16 inches to 3.03 inches. All-wheel steering is also available on the updated e-tron GT lineup.

Lighter Battery Charges At Higher Speeds

The 97 kWh (net) battery's overall weight has decreased by 19.8 lbs. It's still heavy, though, at 1,377.8 lbs. A new two-layer cooling plate has increased the capacity of the 33-cell modules by 12%, and the cooling system for the cells has also been upgraded. The maximum charging power has increased by 50 kW to 320 kW. That means the e-tron GT can recharge its battery from 10-80% in as little as 18 minutes. In just 10 minutes, the vehicle can accumulate 174 miles of range. Audi claims a maximum range of 378 miles, but remember, this has been calculated using the WLTP cycle.

The handsome styling has been subtly updated with a new front fascia with a body-colored strip over the Singleframe grille. The air curtains have also been revised and now have a stronger shape than before. The rear diffuser, with its new vertical fins, also gets a body-colored inlay and visually separates the diffuser from the rear bumper. RS e-tron GT models get a 3D honeycomb structure with a unique diffuser and several other unique styling touches. Lastly, the performance model is available with an optional matte carbon fiber roof and several other carbon exterior elements, such as side mirrors, door trim, and diffuser. New 20-inch wheels are available for the S e-tron GT, and there are two new designs for the RS model. This includes a 21-inch "Avus wheel" that pays tribute to the '90s Avus concept.

Improved Interior Crafted From Sustainable Materials

Inside, the updated e-tron GT receives a redesigned steering wheel, seats, and new digital content, to name a few things. New wood trim inlays also lend the cabin a classier look. The RS performance models can be specified with matte carbon camouflage inlays that match the exterior. For the first time, vanadium is also included in the interior. The steering wheel is not only flat-bottomed but also receives a flat top with an optional 12 o'clock marking. Audi has also introduced a new panoramic sunroof with polymer-dispersed liquid crystal technology that allows the glass to turn opaque at the touch of a button.

The interior receives sustainable, suede-like Dinamica microfiber and Cascade fabrics. The former is made of recycled polyester and is used for the seats, steering wheel, center console, and more. The carpeting and floor mats are made from Econyl, a recycled nylon fiber made from old carpet scraps, fishing nets, and other recycled goods. On the technology front, the Audi virtual cockpit has been improved and now shows relevant battery information, such as temperature and charging power. RS models receive RS-specific content and info, while performance models have a configurable speedometer that can be made white as a tribute to the Audi RS 2 Avant. We expect the new e-tron GT to reach the US market later this year. The automaker has not revealed pricing for the US market, but European pricing is as follows:

• S e-tron GT: 126,000 ($135,000)
• RS e-tron GT: 147,500 ($158,000)
• RS e-tron GT performance: 160,500 ($172,000)

2024-06-18T21:47:11Z dg43tfdfdgfd