The new 2024 Audi Q4 E-tron pure electric SUV release: power boost, launch early next year
CTOnews.com Audi has released an updated version of the 2024 Q4 E-tron, an electric SUV with significant improvements in power and efficiency.
The new Audi Q4 E-tron and the slip-back Audi Q4 Sportback E-tron feature a new rear synchronous motor, a 400V motor manufactured in-house by Volkswagen Group, with a newly designed stator cooling system and a new gear set for a single-speed gearbox. In addition, it provides significant power and efficiency improvements.
The single-motor, rear-wheel-drive, 281-hp Q4 45 E-tron has 80 hp more than the older Q4 40 E-tron it replaces, while the dual-motor, four-wheel-drive, 335-hp Q4 55 E-tron Quattro has 40 hp more than the outgoing Q4 50 E-tron Quattro.
Audi claims that the Q4 45 E-tron has an acceleration time of 6.7 seconds from 0-62 mph, while the Q4 55 E-tron Quattro has an acceleration time of 5.4 seconds. Top speed for all models is now limited to 112 mph (CTOnews.com notes: about 180.25 km/h).
Equipped with a standard 77kWh (available) lithium-ion battery, the Q4 Sportback 45 E-tron's range increases by 17 miles to 349 miles in WLTP. In addition, rear-wheel-drive models can still be charged at speeds up to 135kW, but four-wheel-drive models can be charged at speeds up to 175kW. A new feature has also been added to allow pre-conditioning of batteries prior to charging for faster recharge.
There is no official word yet on the entry-level, rear-wheel drive Q4 35 E-tron.
In addition to changes to the drive system, Audi has fine-tuned the suspension of the Q4 E-tron to give it "more harmonious damping, better steering response and tighter load control."
The model, which competes with the BMW iX3 and Mercedes EQB, also offers a new optional assist kit with assisted lane change. When the driver initiates a lane change by touching the steering light pole on the steering wheel, the vehicle actively assists the driver to turn to another lane.
Audi has confirmed that the upgraded Q4 E-tron will now be produced at its plant in Brussels, Belgium, as well as at Volkswagen's plant in Zwickau, Germany. Audi says each of its production plants will be responsible for at least one electric model by the end of the decade.
The new car will be available early next year and pricing has not yet been announced.
