Audi e-Tron models
EVs with actions that speak louder than their electric motors
AS with many automakers, Audi is on a path toward an all-electric future. However, given that almost every other automaker is pursuing an all-electric future, where does Audi fit in the realm of electric vehicles (EVs)? These days, as automakers hone their EV commitment, the promise of instant acceleration, silent drivetrains, and a refined driving experience becomes a commodity as opposed to a novelty. With that in mind, what’s novel in an Audi e-tron EV that sets itself apart from other EVs?
How EVs have set an equalizer
With no internal combustion engine (ICE) or multi-geared transmission to engineer and calibrate, an affordable EV from the likes of BYD will inevitably feel similar to a multimillion peso EV from a brand like Audi or even BMW in terms of power delivery. Both offer instant torque and a silent, refined drive. However, the distinction of Audi’s e-tron models lies beyond these basic similarities.
Essentially, the electric drivetrain has leveled the playing field for all automotive brands, both mainstream and luxury. However, EV brands can still distinguish themselves in terms of refinement, and most importantly, in a brand like Audi, handling.
And this is how Audi stands out
Audi has built its reputation surrounding its legendary Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) system, and its EVs have been built around this legendary system. Of course, as an EV, there’s no need for driveshafts to connect the two axles. The connection this time is all electronic, which enables instantaneous response in terms of how the vehicle shuffles its power across the car’s four wheels. The result? An electric SUV that can navigate through corners as if the Q8 e-tron were a much more agile vehicle, defying the physics that should’ve limited its handling capabilities.
However, its weight of more than two tons cannot be ignored. Yet, this is where Audi’s expertise in prioritizing the driving experience becomes evident. Hustling the Q8 e-tron around Clark Speedway is an idea you probably didn’t expect would bode well in such a vehicle, but here we are, navigating through corners as if the Q8 e-tron were a much more agile vehicle. There’s something remarkable about how Audi tunes its suspension and the Quattro all-wheel drive system to defy the laws of physics and make the Q8 e-tron not only a comfortable car for long drives but also one that can eagerly tackle the track.
There’s also the novelty of the instant torque that an EV provides, and the Audi Q8 e-tron is no exception. Yet, even in the power delivery, Audi somehow managed to add a bit of distinction to the EV drivetrain’s behavior. The acceleration of the Q8 e-tron’s dual-motor system can be brutal if you want it, yet at the same time, the throttle is easy to control as you enter and exit through Clark’s sweeping and flowing corners. The brakes and steering are more than up to the task, and with regenerative braking as with all EVs, no energy is wasted as this charges the battery.
As the Q8 e-tron is an SUV, you might be wondering how it would perform in floods. This question was addressed through a water-wading test, where we drove a pre-facelift version of the Q8 etron through a pool with knee-deep water. In theory, an EV should be more resistant to floods due to the absence of vents and air intakes, resulting in a more enclosed vehicle structure.
Electrifying fun
Finally, let’s move on to the e-tron GT. Sharing the same J1 platform as the Porsche Taycan, the Audi e-tron GT is the brand’s sportiest EV to date. It has all the ingredients to resemble a vehicle worthy of being on a child’s poster. Thankfully, the driving experience matches the e-tron GT’s sultry exterior looks.
Unsurprisingly, the Audi e-tron GT will feel more athletic than the Q8 e-tron. After all, it sits low to the ground and offers a very cocooned driving experience. Where the Audi brand identity has been retained is with the well-designed Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) system for the EV age — shuffling once again the power to which wheel needs it the most. But in the e-tron GT, the Quattro system is more willing to play around with a somewhat rear-biased power delivery that lets the e-tron GT adjust its trajectory through the throttle.
Also unsurprising is the acceleration. Likewise, the Audi e-tron GT possesses the instant torque that EVs are known for, but there’s a distinct direct feel that you get with the e-tron GT that you won’t get in any other EV (except perhaps the similarly engineered Taycan). Designed to enhance EV efficiency at high speeds while providing a sense of driving engagement on the track, this single ingredient makes the e-tron GT feel more natural, akin to the gear change sensation experienced in an ICE car.
And then there’s the handling. Direct and agile are adjectives that you’d easily describe the Audi e-tron GT. Yet it maintains the grippy and confidence-inspiring handling of what an EV with quattro AWD can only achieve. It’s a surprising level of AWD consistency that is maintained across the two models, yet with their unique take on the two models since one is a sporty four-door sedan while the other is a highriding SUV with an increased focus on all-weather capability.
EVs with distinct AWD dynamics
So, how does Audi stand out in the EV age? Well, by developing its quattro AWD system for the EV age, Audi’s e-tron range of EVs set itself apart through the driving experience. The e-tron GT and Q8 e-tron may have their unique driving feel, but what’s consistent is the reassurance of the all-weather grip provided by the quattro AWD system. By building on top of its legendary AWD system and complementing it with a well-engineered body structure, suspension, and steering calibration, Audi’s broad range of EVs are able to carve their own identity while still maintaining a distinct driving identity whose actions speak louder than their electric motors.