Living with electric

It’s an exciting time in the automotive market and things are moving fast. Very fast indeed if you look at this new all-electric Audi e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT that were unveiled to the world just last month. These stunning models represent the pinnacle of brand’s electric range, which will swell to include some 30 models across the spectrum of Audi models by 2025.

Last year saw the brand’s first all-electric model, the Audi e-tron, arrive Down Under, heralding in a new era for Audi in Australia and the release has seen more and more people look to e-mobility for their day to day driving needs.

While this is exciting news, for many it constitutes new territory surrounding the all-new technology and what that means to them in real world situations. It would be fair to say that in some quarters, there is a great deal of assumed knowledge on the part off the customer and real detail and answers to the simple questions concerning owning and living with an EV are not always easy to find.

Some like to drill right down into the tech of the new models, while for others, their queries surrounding e-tron ownership are based on what they need to know to get the most from their e-tron ownership experience. So here are some of the most commonly asked questions surrounding electric drive and what it means to own an Audi e-tron in Australia. 

How many different types of Audi e-tron are there?

At present in Australia, there are two distinct Audi e-tron models – SUV and Sportback – with two different battery sizes. Much like the different engine designation in combustion engine models indicating engine size and power, the different batteries are assigned a designation dependant on size. The Audi e-tron 55 (in SUV and Sportback) stores up to 95kWh for a WLTP range of over 400km, while the slightly smaller battery in the e-tron 50 (SUV and Sportback) holds up to 71kWh of energy for a WLTP range of over 300km. 

In the second half of the year, Audi Australia is planning to introduce the ’S’ versions of both of these e-tron models, as well as the high-performance Audi e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT models.

How long will it take to fully recharge an Audi e-tron ‘on the go’ in Australia? 

Both the Audi e-tron 50 and e-tron 55 will take approximately 30 minutes to charge to 80 percent of their capacity or 45 minutes to charge to 100 percent using the ultra-rapid charging stations available around the country.

Can I tow with my Audi e-tron?

Although many electric vehicles are unsuitable for towing, the Audi e-tron models currently in Australia have more than sufficient torque to tow and has a towing capacity of up to 1.8 tonnes.

What range can I get from a fully charged battery?

As with a tank of fuel, range will depend on the style of driving, terrain and what other demands are made on the battery, but with its 95kWh battery, a fully charged Audi e-tron 55 quattro can deliver over 400km range. The Audi e-tron 50 quattro with its 71kWh battery can deliver in excess of 300km. Both models also recover energy during the course of driving which can extend range further.

How do I charge my e-tron when I’m away from home or office?

When you purchase an Audi e-tron it comes with a six year subscription to the extensive Chargefox charging network which boasts an extensive, nationwide network of chargers or ‘plugs’. Audi is a founding partner of the Chargfox network and the subscription provides e-tron owners with access to all ultra-rapid and selected fast and standard chargers within the Chargefox network.

What would I do if I found myself away from home with no charge? Could Audi Roadside Assist help?

The Audi e-tron comes with six years roadside assist. Given the proliferation of charging units around the country it’s unlikely you’d ever find yourself with no charge or charging options. But if the unthinkable should happen, the Audi roadside assist can tow the vehicle to the closest High Performance Charging station or closest Audi dealership.

What is involved in having a charging station installed in my home and does this provide much faster charging than standard mains power? 

Audi Australia has partnered with JetCharge for home or office installation requirements. JetCharge will complete a home check and provide advice on the appropriate vehicle charging infrastructure/installation relevant to your home. In most cases this will provide a faster charge rate than a standard 10 Amp power point. For example, the 11kW AC home-charging solution can charge the e tron 55 variants from empty to full in 8.5 hours and the e-tron 50 variants in 6 hours – ideal for charging overnight. 

Are there any personal risks in charging my Audi e-tron? 

Much like refuelling a vehicle at a petrol station, charging an e-tron is a safe procedure providing all necessary precautions are taken to ensure one’s personal safety. The e-tron can even be charged when it is raining without any issues, as the charging system is fully enclosed. 

How often does an Audi e-tron need servicing?

The e-tron has a service schedule of 24 Months or 30,000km, whichever occurs first. Any Audi dealer within the national network of 42, can service an e-tron vehicle. 

How long does an Audi e-tron lithium-ion battery last and can they be repaired?

The e-tron’s lithium-ion battery is covered by an 8 year/160,000km warranty for added peace of mind. The Audi e-tron 55 uses a 95kWh lithium ion battery that is made up of 36 individual modules with 12 cells in each module. If an individual cell is damaged, that individual cell can be replaced – negating the need to replace the complete battery.