Audi has revealed a new, more affordable version of its all-electric e-tron SUV.
Set to be badged the ‘e-tron 50 Quattro’, this new model has a smaller electric motor and batteries next to its more expensive sibling, which costs from £71,560. Audi says this new entry-level e-tron will open up the brand to more customers, with a starting price of around £60,000 likely.
This new model’s 71kWh battery offers up to 186 miles of range – down from the current entry-level car’s 237-mile capability. Fast charging using a rapid 120kW unit also drops the charging times to just 30 minutes.
As with the e-tron 55 Quattro, this new model features two electric motors which send power to the front and rear wheels. To improve efficiency, the rear wheels are prioritised most of the time.
The electric motors are slightly less powerful with the 50 model – offering 309bhp and 540Nm of torque next to the larger car’s 335bhp and 561Nm. That said, it can still accelerate from 0-60mph in 6.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 118mph.
An optional smart-charging system will be available later in the year so that owners can charge at off-peak times to get the lowest electricity rates. This function will be powered by the MyAudi smartphone app, which offers a host of connectivity features.
Official pricing will be revealed when order books open later in the year, but first UK deliveries are not expected until 2020.
