After a slight delay, Audi’s first all-electric model is finally on sale.
The e-tron was scheduled for sale in November but a software issue held things up. Everything’s tickety boo now though, Audi says, and the e-tron is available for order immediately.
With the plug-in grant, the five seat SUV costs from £67,990 (full price is £71,490). Rivals for the e-tron include the Jaguar I-Pace and Tesla Model X.
If you want to be one of the very first e-tron owners you’ll have to shell out even more. An initial run of 30 Launch Edition cars are available for £82,240 (excluding electric car grant).
These come with black highlights for the front grille surround and window trim, privacy glass s on the rear windows, and 21in alloy wheels. The e-tron’s conventional door mirrors also make way in the Launch Edition for camera-based units that transmit images of the world outside to two interior OLED displays.
The e-tron has a maximum range of 241 miles on the more realistic WLTP measurement, and can recharge to 80% capacity in 30 minutes, using a 150Kw fast charger.
There are charging points on both front wings to provide maximum convenience.
The e-tron uses a 95kWh battery and two electric motors, providing all-wheel-drive and acceleration from 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds.
The interior features the same twin-screen setup that debuted in the new A8, reducing the number of physical buttons.
All e-trons have a huge level of standard equipment, including Audi Smartphone Interface, Audi Phonebox wireless charging, MMI navigation plus and internet-based Audi connect infotainment services are included, as are assistance systems including the Audi Parking System Plus with 360-degree display and rear-view camera and Lane Departure Warning.
Air suspension is also fitted as standard, along with 20-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights.
Those who order their cars now should expect their e-trons to be delivered in April. Audi may have been late to the electric car party but the e-tron looks like it has all the ingredients to take on rivals from Jaguar and Tesla.
