- Range is based on full charge of 95-kWh battery
- Closest competitor Jaguar I-Pace touts 234-mile range
- Level 2 recharging estimated at 9 hours
- DC Fast Charge to 80-percent in 30 minutes
- Audi e-tron set for May sales
- Priced from $74,800
Audi has announced the EPA-estimated range of its first all-electric vehicle. The 2019 Audi e-tron will deliver an EPA-estimated range of 204 miles on a full battery charge, which is slightly lower than the 234-mile range of the Jaguar I-PACE, its closest competitor. The e-tron, which Audi touts as the “right size, in the right segment, with the right tech and right ecosystem” for today’s combustion-free vehicle shopper, will arrive in showrooms in May – Audi retailers will begin deliveries and have demonstration models for test drives on hand, simultaneously.
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Our first drive of the German brand’s most technically sophisticated offering debut took place late last year, and the 2019 Audi e-tron left us smitten with its styling, innovative technology, driving dynamics, and high level of standard equipment. “Automakers only get one shot at their first EV. In the case of the e-tron, Audi has delivered one that exceeds expectations,” we remarked. Audi released specifications and pricing at our first drive in Abu Dhabi, but the automaker had yet to release the e-tron’s official range, which explains today’s announcement.
What’s the driving range of the 2019 Audi e-tron?
The 2019 Audi e-tron delivers an EPA-estimated range of 204 miles on a full charge.
Why did Audi choose 204 miles of range for the 2019 e-tron?
According to Audi, the company conducted exhaustive research on consumer driving habits. Studies show that buyers of premium vehicles drive an average of 30 miles per day. The studies also indicate that 98 percent of all single-trip journeys in the U.S. are less than 50 miles. Audi expects e-tron owners to plug their vehicles in each night and wake to a full charge, which should address range concerns.
What type of battery is in the 2019 Audi e-tron?
Audi fits the e-tron with a 95-kWh lithium-ion battery, which is integrated into the floor of the SUV within a protective honeycomb structure. Of the 95 kWh of capacity, the e-tron is engineered to use 83.6 kWh, or 88 percent, to ensure battery longevity and peak charging power over the life of the vehicle.
How long will the battery in the 2019 Audi e-tron last?
Audi has focused much of its attention on maximizing the service life of the e-tron’s battery. A revolutionary cooling system separates the battery modules from the cooling fluid to ensure ideal thermal management, optimize efficiency, and preserve the performance of the battery during the life of the vehicle — battery degradation is a serious concern with EVs that are repeatedly fast charged. In terms of warranty, Audi guarantees the e-tron’s battery for eight years or 100,000 miles (whichever occurs first).
How long does it take to charge the 2019 Audi e-tron?
Most owners will charge their 2019 Audi e-tron at home on a standard 240-volt Level 2 charger, which can restore full capacity in about nine hours — overnight for the typical homeowner. If a faster charge is required, a 480-volt Level 3 (DCFC or DC Fast Charge) will bring the e-tron to 80 percent capacity in just 30 minutes. A 120-volt Level 1 charger may also be used, but the charge time is significantly longer.
How do I recharge a 2019 Audi e-tron on a road trip?
The 2019 Audi e-tron may be charged at any public high-speed charger, which add about 163 miles of range for 30 minutes of charging. Audi is also working with Electrify America, which will have nearly 2,000 fast chargers (350 kW) throughout 42 states and 17 metropolitan areas by the end of 2019. Audi e-tron owners will receive 1,000 kWh of free charging at Electrify America stations – approximately 2,000 miles of range – at no charge during the first four years of ownership.
Is the 2019 Audi e-tron the best vehicle for a road trip?
No electric vehicles – including the 2019 Audi e-tron – are ideal for long distance road trips. Electric vehicles are excellent for daily commuting, running errands, and carpools, but there are much better vehicles for consumers who take 200-plus mile trips on a regular basis. In terms of SUVs, Audi offers the Q5, Q7, and new Q8 with traditional combustion engines for these shoppers.
How big is the 2019 Audi e-tron?
Audi is targeting premium luxury SUV buyers for its new e-tron. With two rows of seating, the five-passenger vehicle is the largest offering in the mid-size luxury segment – it is about the same size as the Audi Q8. With the rear seats folded, it offers 57 cubic feet of cargo space
What is the towing capacity of the 2019 Audi e-tron?
The 2019 Audi e-tron is engineered to tow up to 4,000 pounds, which makes it one of the few EVs to be rated for towing.
What’s the e-tron’s price and availability?
The 2019 Audi e-tron is expected to go on sale in May. The new electric compact luxury crossover will be priced from $74,800.
