2023-10-03 14:48:55
Audi is systematically continuing its growth course in fully electric models. In particular, the Audi Q4 e-tron family has contributed to the strong growth in deliveries in the first half of 2023 (+51.2%). Now, the electric compact SUV is updated with adjustments to the running gear, greater efficiency and a characteristic sound.
In addition to an optimized driving concept and increased charging power, the range of functions of the driver assistance systems is also expanded: the optional adaptive driving assistant now helps when changing lanes.
All versions of the Audi Q4 e-tron incorporate a large battery with a net capacity of 77 kWh (82 kWh gross). Thanks to the optimization of the cell chemistry, the direct current charging power has been improved, allowing it to go from 10 to 80 percent capacity in about 28 minutes under ideal conditions.
The quattro version now reaches a maximum charging power of 175 kW, and the rear-wheel drive model a maximum of 135 kW.
The battery protection feature automatically limits the charge level to 80 percent to extend battery life. To ensure intelligent travel and charging planning, the e-tron route planner prioritizes high-power HPC (HPC) stations.
If an HPC station is selected as the destination, the system activates the thermal conditioning of the battery so that the charging process is as fast as possible. For the first time, the Audi Q4 e-tron model family also features post-conditioning: the vehicle’s thermal management system cools the battery, for example if it exceeds a predefined temperature threshold after driving or the recharging process.
New propulsion system with greater efficiency and more power
Both in the rear-wheel drive version and in the variant with electric quattro drive, all Audi Q4 e-tron now incorporate a newly developed permanently excited synchronous motor (PSM) on the rear axle that stands out for its greater efficiency and power and allows the compact SUV to travel more kilometers on one battery charge. The Audi Q4 Sportback 45 e-tron, for example, reaches a range of up to 548 kilometers in the WLTP cycle.
The Audi Q4 e-tron 45 and Q4 Sportback e-tron 45 with rear drive deliver a power of 210 kW (286 hp) and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds (6.8 for the SUV). The top-of-the-range versions Audi Q4 e-tron 55 quattro and Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron 55 quattro reach a system power of 250 kW (340 HP) and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds. The maximum speed of all models is now 180 km/h.
The new electric motor uses optimized thermal management for greater efficiency that integrates a low-consumption cooling system. Thanks to the geometry and arrangement of the transmission gears, as well as special components that transport and distribute the oil, temperatures in the drivetrain barely increase. In turn, the cooling circuit ensures that the oil remains at the appropriate temperature. In addition, the outside of the stator has a water cooling jacket.
More precise steering: a chassis with Audi DNA
In line with Audi DNA, the new suspension tuning further improves comfort, driving pleasure and stability. Whether the model has the standard suspension, sports suspension or suspension with damping control, the steering characteristics and the damper settings receive new adjustments that result in more precise response and control. firmer body movements.
With the sports suspension the body is 15 millimeters lower. New settings for the springs, dampers and steering provide a balanced and solid driving experience, with the sporty feel behind the wheel characteristic of the brand with the four rings. The Audi Q4 e-tron models respond more directly to changes in direction for greater agility.
New feature: assisted lane changes
As an option, the update to the Audi Q4 e-tron family introduces for the first time the assisted lane change function in combination with the adaptive driving assistant for speeds above 90 km/h on the highway. As part of the assistant package pro as well as the assistant and safety systems plus package, lane change assist can be activated via the MMI.
The new system uses white arrows on the instrumentation and on the augmented reality head-up display to indicate whether it is safe to change lanes and in which direction. If the driver initiates the lane change by activating the turn signal, the system actively assists him in steering; and once the vehicle is in the new lane, it turns off the turn signal.
During the lane change maneuver, the person behind the wheel always retains full responsibility. Assisted lane changes are possible thanks to information from the rear radar.
Among the optional systems, adaptive cruise control regulates the distance to the vehicle in front by accelerating and decelerating. Adaptive Driving Assist extends the functionality of adaptive cruise control by using slight steering corrections so that the vehicle always travels in the center of the lane. To maintain lateral control, it is enough for the driver to lightly touch the capacitive steering wheel, which is part of the system, to confirm that he is maintaining his attention on driving.
The lane change assistant “side assist” monitors traffic behind and to the sides of the car, warning the driver if they are about to change lanes in a critical situation. This system also uses information from the rear radar sensors. The main driver assistance systems are standard, while optional systems are grouped into the assistance packages plus, pro and safety systems plus.
A unique acoustic identity thanks to a “sound with character”
The models of the Audi Q4 e-tron family are unmistakable not only visually and for their dynamic qualities, but now also acoustically.
With the update, Audi optionally provides the compact SUVs with their own acoustic identity through a sound that distinguishes them from other electric propulsion models of the brand with the four rings and also from other manufacturers, and can reinforce the emotional bond between the driver of an Audi and his vehicle. To further increase road safety, all variants will be audible at low speeds and up to about 25 km/h.
The digitally generated sound system, delivered through two exterior speakers in the rear and two interior speakers in the rear doors, is available ex factory as optional equipment.
This unmistakable sound, which varies depending on the load and speed until reaching the maximum speed, has a great recognition effect and expresses the progressive character of the vehicle. If necessary, the system can be deactivated at any time from the Audi drive select menu.
The legally mandated SAAV (Acoustic Vehicle Warning System) acoustic warning system is integrated and active at all times, without affecting the sound of the infotainment system.
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