Audi Introduces Its Two Newest EVs

• Audi has unveiled its production e-tron Q4 and e-tron Q4 Sportback.

• The company first showed the Q4 e-tron concept at the 2019 Geneva show.

• Prices should start right around $45K.

Audi first showed the Q4 e-tron concept at the 2019 Geneva show and now the VW brand has removed the covers from its production e-tron Q4 and e-tron Q4 Sportback. They’re the German automaker’s latest EVs, the idea being to grow its electric line to a slightly less-expensive segment. “The Q4 e-tron models are approachable, livable SUVs with the sophistication and quality for which Audi is known,” the company said, adding that with the addition of these two new models, the company plans to have “more fully electric models on sale in the U.S. than any other luxury brand by the end of 2021.”

The new Audis ride on VW’s MEB platform, as does the VW ID.4. In fact, the Audis and the VW are built at the same Zwickau, Germany, plant. The Q4 is 180.6 inches long and 64.3 inches tall, about the same size as Audi’s Q5.

Audi says the Q4 e-tron’s powertrain choices live up to “the expectations of a wide range of customers—from the urban commuter to the long-distance driver.”

The entry-level model has an estimated output of 150 kW, while the top-of-the-range Q4 50 e-tron quattro and Q4 Sportback 50 e-tron quattro offer two electric motors and all-wheel drive. The combination of the two motors delivers a maximum 220 kW estimated output. The motor on the front axle comes into play only when high power or more grip is needed, with the electric all-wheel drive using a temporary on-demand asynchronous motor (ASM) for the front wheels. The ASM doesn’t use any energy when it’s not needed. Slick.

Whether you get one or two motors, the battery configuration is 77 kWh net (82 kWh gross). The battery lies between the axles for a low center of gravity and, Audi says, balanced weight distribution. The result is “controlled and responsive handling when paired with a McPherson front axle and a five-link rear suspension,” Audi says. The Audi drive select system includes Efficiency, Comfort, Dynamic, and Individual. Audi sources told Autoweek the car’s suspension is tuned slightly toward the sporty side.

Audi says its newest EVs can be charged with different outputs using alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC)—up to 11 kW with AC, and up to 125 kW DC on a high-speed charger. Audi also says it estimates the range will be about 250 miles for the Q4 e-tron, but doesn’t yet have EPA estimates. An optional heat pump uses waste heat from the modules and the ambient air to control interior air temperature, helping increase efficiency, Audi says, especially on longer drives.