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The Audi E-Tron GT Concept

It seems like only yesterday Audi introduced us to their first attempt at an electric machine – the E-Tron SUV. Not being ones to waste time (or opportunity $$$), they have already announced another (albeit more sport-centric) plug-in at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Known as the E-tron GT, this sedan gets its electric power – not from Thor’s hammer – but from the same battery setup and drive train that will run Porsche’s first EV, the Taycan.

Pushing the electric vehicle standard, the E-Tron will have a range over 400 km thanks to a 90kW battery located under the (toasty) seating area, and reports of 434kW (590 ponies) coming from its two front and rear mounted motors aren’t just rumours. That 90kW battery provides major buzz for the two electric motors, and throws down 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds.

Sharing Porsche’s Taycan tech, this will also feature lightning fast charging. 800 volts ensure the battery system can go from limp to Viagra in just 30 minutes, faster than anything in the current market – including Tesla’s Superchargers. For extra perks, the GT can also be charged by parking it above a contactless inductive charging pad overnight.

Keeping with green theme is a vegan interior, constructed of synthetic leather, and a microfibre crafted from recycled fishing nets.

While it’s too early to call it a ‘Tesla Killer’, it is a reminder of the tsunami of EVs on the horizon. Audi’s bestimate sale time is about two years, with deliveries starting in 2021. In the meantime look out for the E-tron GT in the upcoming Avengers Endgame film – as the superheroes’ ride of choice.

For the full article grab the February 2019 issue of MAXIM Australia from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU!

Laura Jacobs