After about a week ago having unveiled the e-tron Sporback, the German brand also updated the e-tron regular that also saw its autonomy grow relative to the e-tron we already knew. So, the autonomy is now 436 km , 25 km more than before.
Following the maxim that “every detail counts”, Audi got down to work and started by tinkering with the e-tron's braking system. As it did on the e-tron Sportback, it optimized the braking system (through stronger springs that act on the pads) eliminating friction when they are not required.
As with the e-tron Sportback, the front engine can now be practically disconnected and disconnected from the electrical part, it only started to be mostly disconnected from the wheels “getting into action” only when the driver presses more decisively on the accelerator.
Thermal management was also revised
In terms of batteries, Audi made changes in terms of useful use. So of the 95 kWh of capacity that the battery of the e-tron 55 quattro offers, a total of 86.5 kWh is usable, more than before.
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Still in the search for greater autonomy, Audi engineers carried out improvements in terms of the thermal management system for the batteries. A reduction in the amount of refrigerant allowed to save the energy used by the pump that makes it flow through the circuit. The pump responsible for heating the passenger compartment uses the heat from the battery to increase autonomy by up to 10%.
As for the energy recovery system (which contributes up to 30% of total autonomy), it works in two ways: when the driver stops pressing the accelerator and when it presses the brake. When it comes to energy regeneration levels, Audi engineers have increased the differences between each of them.
Other news on the way
In addition to increased autonomy, the Audi e-tron received an S line version that brings a sportier look, more aerodynamic 20” wheels, a spoiler and a rear diffuser, among various aesthetic details.
Finally, the new, more affordable variant, called 50 quattro has also seen its range improve, now offering 336 km (previously it was 300 km), taken from a battery with a maximum capacity of 71 kWh (64.7 kWh of useful capacity).