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Audi has registered a new series of badges which could give clues to the company’s upcoming SUVs. According to insiders, the German carmaker has recently registered the series Q3-Q8 and SQ3-SQ8. The Q is thought to stand for Quattro, and the S designates high performance.
Audi’s A6-based Pikes Peak SUV is in the final stages of development, and there are also plans for a smaller SUV derived from the long-wheelbase A3 Sportback. It’s thought the Q3 and Q7 badges could be reserved for the two planned SUVs.
However, there’s an outside chance that Audi is simply preparing to re-badge its road cars. This could mean A4 would designate a front-driver, Q4 the all-wheel-drive version and SQ4 the high-performance model.
Audi will put a new Audi Q8 SUV into production, technical chief Ulrich Hackenberg has confirmed to Autocar at the Los Angeles motor show.
The range-topping crossover SUV to challenge the likes of the BMW X6, Range Rover Sport and upcoming Mercedes-Benz MLC will be based on the next-generation Q7, which is set to be unveiled in January at the Detroit motor show.
"The Q8 will come," said Hackenberg. "It will be something new, following designs established on the Prologue concept [revealed at the LA show]. It will be positioned as something more emotional and more sporty than the Q7. The Q7 will be a car for seven people, the Q8 will be more coupe like."
The Q7 will be one of the last Audis with the current design language, Hackenberg saying that he and new chief designer Marc Lichte arrived at the firm too late from Volkswagen to influence the look. To that end, the Q8 will have some visual differentation to the Q7 both inside and out.
The Q8 has been granted official production approval and is progressing through a development programme that aims to have it on sale within the next three years.
Previously hinted at at the Beijing motor show by company boss Rupert Stadler, the upmarket crossover forms a crucial part of Audi’s growth strategy that will see it extend its line-up by no fewer than 11 new models by 2020. Five of those models have been identified as additional SUVs in the form of the Q1, Q2, Q4, Q6 and Q8.
This will push Audi’s range to a 60-strong model line-up, with the company predicting that 40 per cent of its annual sales - around 800,000 units - will come from SUVs. Stadler admitted that more investment would be diverted to SUVs as a result.
“We see a great deal of potential, particularly in the SUV segment and in the especially prestigious full-size category,” said Stadler earlier this year.
The Q8 has been conceived to extend Audi’s reach at the top of its line-up and to provide the company with added sales in potentially crucial markets such as China, the Middle East and the United States.
In terms of performance and technology, the Q8 is described as being on a par with Audi’s A8 flagship saloon, albeit with the added ability to head off road thanks to its raised ride height and, on top-end models, adjustable air suspension.
The Q8 is set to crown Audi’s Q line-up, while a four-door coupé version of the A8, called A9, is still on the cards to top Audi’s range of A-badged cars. This has been previewed with the Prologue A9 concept in LA
Ingolstadt’s big new SUV, which will have an overall length of more than five metres, has a projected price range of between £50,000 for an entry-level turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol model and £90,000 for a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 RS Q8 flagship.
A range of V6 and V8 petrol and diesel engines will be offered, alongside plug-in hybrids and possibly an all-electric version to rival the upcoming Tesla Model X SUV.
The Q8 is set to receive its own, unique five-door body styled under the stewardship of new Audi design boss Marc Lichte. Among the various elements expected to set it apart from the more practical second-generation Q7 is a racier front end with a more sporting grille, more obvious tapering around each corner, shallower side glass, a generously sloping roofline and a more heavily angled rear window.
In the same way that BMW has spun the X6 off the X5, the Q8 is set to share its mechanical package with the forthcoming new Q7.
The basis for the Q8 is the second-generation MLB (modular longitudinal architecture) platform. The structure forms part of a family of platforms, the development of which is being led by Audi. It is set to underpin a wide range of upmarket SUVs, including the new Q7, the third-generation Porsche Cayenne, a secret new Cayenne coupé, the third-gen Volkswagen Touareg, the recently confirmed Bentley SUV and the spectacular Lamborghini Urus.
The Q8 and Bentley will be the plushest and most premium of the SUVs, but Stadler believes the pair won’t clash, as “Bentley can’t fill the gap” of less than £100,000 into which the range-topping Q8 will be pitched.
Insiders say the MLB structure has far greater flexibility than that used today, with added scope for variability within the wheelbase and track widths in a move that, it is suggested, will lead to a wider differentiation between the models planned by the VW Group’s various brands.
The key development, however, is the adoption of aluminium, thinner-gauge high-strength steel and carbonfibre-reinforced plastic, which together promise to bring a significant reduction in weight of up to 300kg in the Q7 and a kerb weight below 2000kg for the base Q8.
It was only a matter of time before Audi decided it wanted a piece of the fantastically pointless coupe-slash-SUV pie and, like BMW and Mercedes-Benz before it, resolved to give us a car that would combine the best (or worst) bits of coupe and SUV.
Traditionally, these things aren’t, as their manufacturers would claim, the best of both worlds. Not in our experience, anyway. They’re not as elegant or good to drive as a conventional saloon or coupe, or as useful and good off-road as a proper SUV, yet somehow command higher RRPs than either of them. Because that is apparently what the people want.
But, with any luck, the Q8 – a car that, you guessed it, “combines the elegance of a four-door luxury coupe and the convenient versatility of an SUV” – might change things. Like its competitors, the Q8 is based on the same platform as one of its maker’s conventional family SUVs. This time around, that’d be the Q7 – only the Q8 is 66mm shorter (it only has five seats, to the Q7’s erm… seven) and 27mm wider, giving it an appropriately bullish stance that’s only amplified by the colossal “singleframe” grille that dominates its front end.
The Q8’s rear end doesn’t look as steeply raked as its competitors’, nor even that of the concept that previewed it, giving a more conventional (and less insulting) profile than we’re used to… or, indeed, were expecting. The consequence is 605 litres of bootspace with the rear seats erected, or 1,755 with them folded flat. That’s broadly on-par with the X6 and GLE but, predictably, quite a long way behind the cavernous Q7.
But nobody who buys these things really gives a toss about practicality. Or they’d buy something, you know, genuinely practical. Engines are more important. And from launch the only one you’ll be able to get in the Q8 is a 3.0-litre V6 diesel – badged 50 TDI – making 282bhp and 443lb ft. Rear-biased quattro all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic gearbox are both standard – equating to 0–62mph in 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 144mph – as is a mild-hybrid system that uses a lithium-ion battery and belt alternator starter to give engine-off coasting between 34 and 99mph and economy gains.
A less powerful 45 TDI and a 3.0-litre petrol 55 TFSI will follow. And as the Q8 is the “top SUV of the brand”, we’d expect some S- and possibly RS-badged stuff in the not-too-distant future. Adaptively damped steel springs are standard-fit, but you can upgrade to air suspension and, ultimately, four-wheel steering for a comically tight turning circle. A gamut of active safety tech is available too.
As for tech you can see and play with – the Q8 shares an interior with all the big, new Audis. So you get two touchscreens – one of 10.1 and the other of 8.6 inches – and the tried-and-tested 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit instrument cluster. The top touchscreen does infotainment and navigation, while the bottom one takes care of the air-conditioning and, when you’re entering a destination into the nav, turns into a big keyboard/trackpad.
Sales start in Europe at the end of July, so we won’t have to wait long to find out whether Audi has succeeded in making something fundamentally unappealing even halfway desirable. If anyone can…
The performance SUV could have as much as 470 horsepower on tap.
The new Q8 is currently the most-premium Audi SUV on the market – but it won’t be the only halo offering for long. Both an SQ8 and an RS Q8 are rumored to join the lineup. Our spy photographers have captured the latter offering on public roads, but these new images show the sporty SQ8 completely uncovered.
Visually, not much appears to has changed over the current model; the massive silver grille insert remains, as do the same wheels, and headlight fitments. This prototype, though, appears to ride much lower than the standard Q8, and considering it is still early in the pre-production phases, some of those visual cues could change on their way to production.
The sporty SUV was spotted near the Nürburgring testing out its performance chops. Though it will adopt an "S" moniker, it probably won’t come powered by a V8 engine. Rumors suggest the SQ8 could use a more-powerful version of the current V6 paired with a 20-kilowatt-hour electric motor.
For now, the most-powerful Q8 produces 444 horsepower (331 kilowatts). But this model, with an electrified V6 underhood, could produce upwards of 470 hp (350 kW) and 516 pound-feet (699 Newton-meters) of torque. But it won’t even be the most powerful option. A hardcore RS Q8 is coming, and assuming it borrow’s the same electrified powertrain from Porsche’s Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid plug-in, it could produce up to 670 hp (499 kW).
The new SQ8 should show up early in 2019, with the range-topping RS model following shortly thereafter. No word on how much it might cost, but expect a modest bump over the standard model. The Q8 will be built in Slovakia, and will go on sale in markets like Germany and Europe later in the year.
2020 Audi RS Q8 to use 680-hp Porsche hybrid powertrain?
Porsche's V-8 hybrid powertrain will be passed around to Audi when it comes time for the RS Q8 to make its official debut, Autocar reported on Monday
It's a change from what we've heard in the past. Previously, it was a thought a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 would reside under the hood minus electrification. With Porsche's hybrid system, which benefits the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, we should expect higher power figures. Autocar reported those figures could be around 680 horsepower. It's the same power output the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid boasts. Porsche may also add the powertrain to the Cayenne SUV in time, too.
The irony in such a power figure? It would make the RS Q8 Audi's most powerful production car, even eclipsing the R8 V-10 Plus, which makes 610 horsepower. In fact, it would also likely outdo the Lamborghini Urus and Porsche Cayenne Turbo, at least until their own hybrid variants debut. However, the RS Q8 won't be nearly as spritely as the R8, thanks to added mass.
As for the design, we should expect something very close to the Q8 Sport concept. A large trapezoidal grille is a given with larger front air intakes. Along the body, expect more aggressive creases and side sill extensions to visually lower the vehicle. Also look for Audi Sport's trademark cue at the rear: massive oval-shaped exhaust tips. We've seen previews of what the RS Q8 looks like in spy shots.
While the normal Q8 will do battle with other mid-size "coupe" SUVs like the BMW X6, Land Rover Range Rover Sport, and Mercedes-Benz GLE, the RS Q8 will target the X6 M, Range Rover Sport SVR, and Mercedes-AMG GLE63. We expect the RS Q8 to debut sometime in mid-2019 for the 2020 model year.
Audi presented the SQ7 and the SQ8 with new TFSI engines. The brand is thus responding to the worldwide trend toward sporty gasoline engines in the high-performance SUV segment. The Audi SQ7 and SQ8 feature numerous high-tech suspension components and offer new connectivity and assistance functions. They will launch on the European markets beginning in autumn 2020.
With its output of 373 kW (507 PS) and 770 Nm (567.9 lb-ft) of torque, the 4.0 TFSI gasoline engine propels the large Audi SQ7 and SQ8 extremely powerfully. The sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) takes just 4.1 seconds; acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h (49.7 to 74.6 mph) just 3.8 seconds. Top speed is electronically governed at 250 km/h (155.3 mph). Depending on the equipment chosen, the SQ7 consumes between 12.1 and 12.0 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (19.4 - 19.6 US mpg), corresponding to CO2 emissions of 278 to 276 grams per kilometer (447.4- 444.2 g/mi). For the SQ8, these figures are also 12.1 to 12.0 liters (19.4 - 19.6 US mpg) and 276 to 275 grams CO2 (444.2 - 442.6 g/mi)).
The biturbo V8 is a high-tech engine. The cylinder on demand (COD) system temporarily deactivates four cylinders during moderate driving, thus reducing fuel consumption. The two twin-scroll turbochargers reduce backpressure and optimize gas exchange for improved filling of the combustion chambers. They are located in the 90-degree V of the cylinder banks. This layout results in short gas paths and spontaneous response even at low rpm. In the exhaust system, two mode-controlled actuators modulate the eight-cylinder sound. Oscillating coils in the active engine mounts minimize the transmission of vibrations to the body by generating counterphase vibrations. These overlap the engine vibrations and largely eliminate them.
For sporty movement: Power transmission and suspension
An eight-speed tiptronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive transfer the superior power of the 4.0 TFSI to the road. The Audi SQ7 and SQ8 come standard with two sporty chassis components: the adaptive air suspension sport with controlled dampers and all-wheel steering. At low speeds, the latter turns the rear wheels by as much as 5 degrees in the opposite direction, which improves agility and reduces the turning circle. At speeds of 60 km/h (37.3 mph) and above, they turn slightly in the same direction for improved stability at higher speeds and during fast changes of direction.
The advanced suspension package includes another highly effective module: electromechanical active roll stabilization (eAWS). When driving straight ahead, the system, which actuates the stabilizers via electric motors, provides for a high level of ride comfort. It also reduces roll during fast cornering. This package also includes the sport differential, which shifts torque between the rear wheels as needed during fast cornering. Handling is even more agile and precise as a result.
The electronic chassis platform (ECP) is the central controller that interconnects most of the controlled chassis systems. Drivers experience this close interaction as maximum handling precision. They can choose between seven driver profiles in the Audi drive select system: comfort, auto, dynamic, efficiency, allroad, offroad and individual.
The Audi SQ7 comes standard with 20-inch wheels, with wheels up to 22 inches optionally available. With the Audi SQ8, the standard size is 21 inches with 22- and 23-inch wheels optional. Both cars feature front brake discs measuring 400 millimeters (15.7 in) in diameter. Their black calipers sport S badges. Audi also offers particularly powerful and durable carbon fiber ceramic discs for the front and rear axles. In this case, the brake calipers are painted anthracite gray. New features in infotainment, connectivity and driver assist systems round out the two models' technology package. They make driving and parking even easier, more pleasant and more comfortable.
From EUR 93,287.40: Market launch begins in autumn 2020
The Audi SQ7 and Audi SQ8 with the 4.0 TFSI will launch on European markets beginning in autumn 2020. List prices in Germany are 93,287.40 and 101,085.72 euros, respectively.
Solid "meh" from me. I never saw the point in any of these large "performance SUV's" anyway. They're just faster, less fuel efficient versions of something that doesn't need to be faster or less fuel efficient. The biggest "performance SUV" I'd consider is like a X3/Macan or Cayenne tops.
In the SUV segment, Audi is heading into the 2022 model year with the edition models Audi Q7 and Q8 competition plus. Optional equipment for the exterior and interior add even more appeal to the biggest members of the Q family. The appearance package black plus makes the S line exterior package stand out even more with its dynamic look for the Audi Q7 as well as the Q8. The black Singlegrame grille including the gills and frame as well as black Audi rings and clips really set the front of these two edition models apart.
A new carbon package, already available as an option for the Audi Q7, with carbon mirror housing and door inlays, highlight the sporty nature of these edition models. For the Audi Q8, the Singleframe mask is also glossy black. Both vehicles are delivered on 21" aluminum wheels. The Audi Q7 can be ordered with optional 22" wheels and the Q8 even with 23" wheels. While the Audi Q7 features black decorative elements in the new "S line competition plus" line, the carbon bumper of the Audi Q8 really highlights the sporty nature of the SUV. Both edition models are equipped with red brake calipers and welcome passengers with an LED projection of the S logo.
Dark tones, specific color accents such as optional red decorative stitching on the seats and steering wheel and the carbon decorative inlays that are familiar from the S-Models also characterize the interior of the new Audi Q7 and Q8 edition models. This is complemented by a carbon insert for the shifter.
Audi Q7 and Q8 competition plus will be available to order on the German market in June from 78,170 euros for the Q7 and 84,500 euros for the Q8. Delivery will begin in late summer 2021.
With the Audi e-tron, the premium manufacturer entered the age of electromobility in 2018, marking the start of the electric future for the four rings. Since then, the model has been setting standards in the electric luxury-class SUV segment. The new Audi Q8 e-tron is now building on the success story of this electric pioneer. The top-of-the-line electric SUV and crossover impress with their optimized drive concept, improved aerodynamics, higher charging performance, and battery capacity and increased range of up to 582 kilometers in the SUV version (in accordance with the WLTP) and up to 600 kilometers in the Sportback version (in accordance with the WLTP). Significant changes, especially at the front of the vehicle, lend the new flagship SUV a fresher appearance.
Since the introduction of the Audi e-tron around four years ago and sales of 150,000 units, Audi has been following a systematic electric roadmap. Its electric portfolio now comprises eight models. By 2026, it will have more than 20. At that point, Audi will only be releasing fully electric models on the global market. "With our corporate strategy 'Vorsprung 2030', we've set a fixed date for our withdrawal from combustion engines and clearly decided that Audi will be a fully electric brand within 11 years," said Markus Duesmann, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG. "The new Audi Q8 e-tron, with its improved efficiency and range and refined design, is another important component in our electric portfolio to get people excited about electromobility with emotional models that are suitable for everyday use." Audi Board Member for Technical Development Oliver Hoffmann also focused on the customer benefits enhanced by these refinements. "In the new Q8 e-tron, we were able to significantly increase both battery capacity and charging performance. This allowed us to achieve an optimal balance between energy density and charging capacity, as well as to increase efficiency," Hoffmann said. "On top of that, we improved the motors, progressive steering, and chassis control systems - and thus the dynamic driving characteristics that are typical of Audi in all versions of the Q8 e-tron."
New face, new name, new corporate identity
By calling this model the Q8, Audi is making a clear statement that the Audi Q8 e-tron is the top model among its electric SUVs and crossovers. The Audi Q8 e-tron and Q8 Sportback e-tron are immediately identifiable as fully electric models at first glance. This is thanks to the new front and rear designs with the characteristic Singleframe mask, the inverted grille, and blade above the redesigned rear diffuser, which systematically carry Audi's electric design language forward. An exclusive highlight on the edition S line package is the Singleframe grille, which is finished in body color.
As a prestigious electric SUV model from Audi, the Q8 e-tron ushers in the new corporate identity with a two-dimensional design of the four rings on the exterior. In order to elevate the family logo as a central element, Audi highlights the vehicle's face with the projection light Singleframe. Additionally, the Q8 e-tron is the first model to feature the new model badge with Audi lettering on the B-pillar.
Maximum amount of space and comfort
With a vehicle length of 4.915 meters, a width of 1.937 meters, and a height of 1.619 meters for the Sportback and 1.633 meters for the SUV, the Q8 e-tron offers a maximum amount of space and comfort. The SQ8 e-tron and SQ8 Sportback e-tron are each two millimeters lower and 39 millimeters wider. Its wheelbase of 2.928 meters allows for a lot of legroom in the back seats too. It has a generous storage volume of 569 liters for the SUV and 528 liters for the Sportback. There are also 62 liters available in the front storage area, the so called "frunk".
Three drivetrain variants
For both body shapes, three drivetrain variants with electric all-wheel drive can be selected. With their two motors, the base models of the Audi Q8 50 e-tron and the Audi Q8 Sportback 50 e-tron generate 250 kW in boost mode and 664 Nm of torque, and they get a range of up to 491 km (SUV) and up to 505 km (Sportback), in accordance with the WLTP.
With their two motors, the Audi Q8 55 e-tron and Audi Q8 Sportback 55 e-tron generate 300 kW in boost mode and 664 Nm of torque. Their ranges are up to 582 km for the SUV and up to 600 km for the Sportback, in accordance with the WLTP. Their top speed, and that of the Q8 50 e-tron, is limited to 200 km/h.
The top-end Audi SQ8 e-tron and Audi SQ8 Sportback e-tron are powered by three motors. Their boost performance amounts to 370 kW and 973 Nm of torque.
The range of the S models is up to 494 km for the SUV and up to 513 km for the Sportback. Their top speed is limited to 210 km/h.
More battery capacity and higher charging performance
Two battery sizes can be selected. The battery of the Q8 50 e-tron has a storage capacity of 89 net kilowatt-hours (95 gross kWh), while the more powerful versions of the Q8 55 e-tron and SQ8 e-tron have 106 net kWh (114 gross kWh). Thanks to an adjustment to the battery management system, the battery capacity usable for customers has increased as well. At a high-powered charging station, the Audi Q8 50 e-tron reaches a maximum charging performance of 150 kW. With the Q8 55 e-tron and SQ8 e-tron, the maximum charging performance increases to up to 170 kW. The big battery can be charged from ten to 80 percent during a roughly 31-minute charging stop - under ideal conditions, this corresponds to a range of up to 420 kilometers (according to WLTP). At an AC charging station or wallbox, the Audi Q8 e-tron charges at up to 11 kW. Audi offers an optional AC charging performance of up to 22 kW.
Under ideal conditions, the Audi Q8 50 e-tron can completely charge in around nine hours and 15 minutes (22kW: around four hours and 45 minutes) using alternating current. The big battery's numbers are around 11 hours and 30 minutes at 11 kW and six hours at 22 kW. The Audi Q8 e-tron comes standard with the Plug & Charge function. At compatible charging stations, the vehicle authorizes itself when inserting the charging cable and activates the charging point. Billing happens automatically. The new charging service Audi charging, which is set to launch in 2023 and will in the future replace the existing e-tron Charging Service, will allow for convenient access to around 400,000 public charging points across Europe. The e-tron route planner provides reliable support when searching for charging points along your route.
Revised rear-axle motor and electric torque vectoring for better dynamics
For the new Audi Q8 e-tron, the asynchronous motor concept on the rear axle was modified. Instead of 12 coils generating the electromagnetic field, there are now 14. The motor consequently generates a stronger magnetic field with similar electricity input, which in turn allows for more torque. If this isn't needed, the electric motor requires less energy to generate torque. This lowers consumption and increases range. With the e-tron range's S model, Audi used a three-motor concept for the first time in large-scale production.
This was refined for the new SQ8 e-tron. A 124-kW electric motor is at work on the front axle. On the rear axle, there are two electric motors each with 98 kW of output that each separately power a rear wheel. This allows for a boost performance of up to 370 kW. The drive torque can be distributed across both rear electric motors between both wheels within a split second.
Balancing act between comfort and sportiness
The new Audi Q8 e-tron comes standard with an air-spring suspension with controlled shock absorption. The height of the car body can be varied by a total of 76 millimeters, depending on the driving situation. To optimize the lateral dynamics of the vehicle, its air-spring tuning was adjusted. Moreover, its electronic stability control (ESC) will allow for even more maneuverability in the future - especially in tight corners. The Audi Q8 e-tron handles these with noticeably more agility thanks to its revised progressive steering. The gear ratio of the steering system was changed so that the steering responds much more quickly, even when making delicate steering movements. The effect of the direct steering ratio is supported by more rigid suspension bearings on the front axle. Steering movements are thus transmitted to the wheels more directly, and feedback from steering reactions is improved as well. All the chassis control systems were adjusted, but they remain balanced and perfectly attuned - true to the Audi DNA.
Further improved aerodynamics
With the Audi Q8 e-tron, the topic of aerodynamics was a top priority. This resulted in a reduction of the drag coefficient from 0.26 to 0.24 cw for the Q8 Sportback e-tron and from 0.28 to 0.27 cw for the Q8 e-tron. The wheel spoilers mounted on the underbody help divert airflow around the wheels. The spoilers on the front axle were enlarged, and the Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron now has spoilers on the rear wheels as well. With the SQ8 Sportback e-tron, spoilers are only mounted on the rear axle. In the area around the grille, this is the first time an Audi model has had a self-sealing system in addition to the electric shutters that automatically close the radiator. This system further optimizes the airflow at the front of the car and prevents undesired losses.
Convenient parking with remote park assist plus
There are around 40 driver assistance systems available in the Audi Q8 e-tron. Up to five radar sensors, five cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors provide environmental information that's then analyzed by the central driver assistance control unit. Something new is remote park assist plus, which will be available to order starting in 2023. With its help, the Audi Q8 e-tron can maneuver into even the tightest parking spaces. Customers can control the parking procedure through the myAudi app on their smartphones. When the car reaches its final position in the parking space, it automatically switches off, puts on the parking brake, and locks the doors. To leave the parking space, the motor is powered on through the myAudi app, then the vehicle maneuvers out enough for comfortable entry.
Digital Matrix LED headlights
The Q8 e-tron optionally comes with digital Matrix LED headlights. While driving on the highway, the orientation light marks the car's position in the lane and helps the driver remain securely in the center in narrow spaces. Three other new features are available as well: enhanced traffic information, the lane light with a direction indicator and the orientation light on country roads.
Luxury-class interior
The glass panorama roof makes the interior appear lighter and reinforces the sense of airiness and expansiveness. The glass elements open and close electronically. The blackout sunshades are controlled just as conveniently. When it's open, the two-part glass roof improves the climate in the interior thanks to efficient ventilation. An integrated wind deflector reduces wind noise as well. As an alternative to the standard two-zone automatic climate control, Audi is also offering four-zone automatic climate control and an air quality package. The three-stage ventilation provides for comfortable seating, even at high outdoor temperatures. This is available for the standard seats, whose leather is intricately perforated. The highly adjustable individual contour seats are the highlight among the interior options. In addition to pneumatic seat and backrest adjustments, they can also be ordered with a massage function. All furnishings come with optional decorative inlays of porous wood veneers such as grainy ash and sycamore, aluminum or, for the S line and edition S line versions, a carbon fiber structure. New additions include light brown walnut wood and a sustainable technical material made partially from recycled PET bottles.
High-resolution touch displays and voice control
Like all luxury-class Audi models, the Q8 e-tron uses the MMI touch response operating system. Its two large high-resolution displays - the top one with a 10.1-inch diagonal and the bottom one with an 8.6-inch diagonal - replace nearly all conventional switches and knobs. Beyond operation with the two touch displays, a lot of features can be activated through natural voice control. The digital display and operating concept in the Audi Q8 e-tron is rounded out by the standard Audi virtual cockpit with full HD resolution. Specific graphics depict all the important aspects of electric driving, from charging performance to range. On request, a heads-up display can be added. On the German market, the Audi Q8 e-tron will come standard with MMI Navigation plus. Its media center supports the high-speed data transmission standard LTE Advanced, and it has an integrated WiFi hotspot for the passengers' mobile devices. The navigation system intelligently recommends destinations based on previously traveled routes. On top of that, the Audi connect Navigation and Infotainment package includes car-to-X services.
Materials from recycling processes
The Audi Q8 e-tron will be certified as net-carbon-neutral1 for customers in Europe and the USA. Audi also uses recycled materials for some components in the Audi Q8 e-tron. These materials, treated through a recycling process, reduce the amount of resources used and ensure a closed, efficient and sustainable material loop.
In the interior of the Audi Q8 e-tron, Audi uses recycled materials for insulation and damping, as well as for carpeting. The decorative inlay above the display, called the Tech Layer, is available with a new anthracite-colored technical material that's partially composed of recycled PET bottles. With the S line equipment package, the sport seats are upholstered in synthetic leather and the microfiber material Dinamica. Dinamica is made from up to 45 percent polyester fibers that are manufactured from recycled PET bottles, used textiles and fiber residue. In contrast to previous microfiber quality, the production of Dinamica is also solvent-free - another contribution to environmental protection.
Furthermore, some safety-related components that partially comprise mixed automotive plastic waste treated through a chemical recycling process are used for the first time - specifically, the plastic covers for the seatbelt buckles. As part of the PlasticLoop project, Audi worked with the plastics manufacturer LyondellBasell to establish a process in which chemical recycling will be used for the first time to reuse mixed automotive plastic waste in the series production of the Audi Q8 e-tron. In this process, jointly implemented with LyondellBasell, plastic components from customer vehicles that can no longer be repaired are dismantled and separated from foreign materials such as metal clips before being shredded and processed into pyrolysis oil through chemical recycling. This pyrolysis oil is then used as a raw material in the production of new plastics in a mass-balance approach.
Market launch in spring 2023
The market launch of the new Audi Q8 e-tron and Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron, which will be available to order starting in mid-November 2022, is planned to happen at the end of February 2023 in Germany and the most important European markets. In the USA, the model is expected to come to the market at the end of April 2023. The base price for the Audi Q8 e-tron in Germany will be 74,400 euros.
Audi gives the electrified Q7 and Q8 a facelift with updated battery technology and more efficient driving modes. The exterior design was also reworked as part of the model upgrade and features new front and rear aprons to highlight the strong character of the two models. For the first time, both plug-in hybrids are available with all-wheel steering for an increased degree of safety and comfort. Electromechanical active roll stabilization (eAWS) guarantees even more dynamic handling. Prices start at 85,500 euros (Q7 55 TFSI e) and 92,900 euros (Q8 55 TFSI e).
Larger battery, more power, longer range
At the heart of both plug-in hybrids is a three-liter six-cylinder Otto engine with 250 kW (340 PS) of output, a compact electric motor (PSM) with a maximum output of 130 kW and 460 Nm of torque, and a new, more powerful, liquid-cooled lithium battery located under the floor of the trunk. The battery's energy is concentrated in 17 cells with 70 Ah each, called "stacks". Six stacks form one unit, which are connected in series. This compact design inside the battery housing eliminates the need for an additional module housing, resulting in higher power density. The design achieves a maximum capacity of 25.9 kWh (gross; 22 kWh net) at 370 volts. The increased capacity results in an all-electric range of up to 90 kilometers in urban areas under the WLTP EAER City standard: this is equivalent to a combined electric range of up to 85 km under the WLTP EAER standard.
The maximum system output of both models with the 55 TFSI e quattro starts at 290 kW (394 PS) and a maximum system torque of 600 Nm thanks to the electric motor's modified design.
With both engines working in tandem, the electrified Q7 and Q8 accelerate to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds. Higher in the range is the 60 TFSI e quattro, which also benefits from a newly designed electric motor with up to 360 kW (490 PS) of system output and up to 700 Nm of torque.
In this configuration, the Q7 and the Q8 go from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds. All variants have an electronically limited top speed of 240 km/h, with an all-electric top speed of 135 km/h. The battery charges up to 7.4 kW and reaches 100 percent in approximately three hours and 45 minutes when charged at top power. Customers who book the Audi charging service have access to approximately 630,000 charging points in 29 European countries, including the Audi charging hubs in Nuremberg, Zurich, Berlin, Salzburg, Munich, and Frankfurt (additional sites will follow). Customers can conveniently charge with Audi and many other providers with a single card.
In many countries and cities, plug-in hybrid owners enjoy tax incentives or local transportation benefits, such as free parking or the right to use bus lanes. In Germany, both plug-in hybrid models benefit from the company car regulation for electric cars, according to which they are only taxed at a flat rate of 0.5 percent of their gross list price.
Maximum efficiency: operating strategy
Thanks to the product upgrade, customers can start their partially electric Q7 or Q8 in fully electric EV mode or hybrid mode. Once selected via the MMI, the desired mode remains active until manually changed. The fully electric EV mode has been fine-tuned so that only battery-powered propulsion is used even when the accelerator pedal is fully depressed.
Hybrid mode uses two operating modes: auto and hold. In auto mode, the predictive operating strategy automatically activates when navigation is started in the standard MMI navigation plus. Acceleration is primarily provided by the TFSI engine, supported as required by the electric motor. At low engine speeds, the electric drive now bridges the fraction of a second that the turbocharger needs to build up the pressure even more powerfully, thanks to the increased torque from the product upgrade so that the drive system responds spontaneously. Put simply, the predictive operating strategy works by driving as far as possible on electric power and using up the existing battery charge by the time the driver reaches the destination.
In hold mode, the existing battery charge is kept at its current level with only minimum fluctuations. This is achieved by recovering braking energy through a process known as recuperation and by shifting the load point through targeted interventions in the 3.0 TFSI management system. As a result, after a conventionally driven long-haul route, customers can now drive to their urban destination on all-electric power, with zero emissions and virtually no noise.
As a new feature included with the product upgrade for the Q7 TFSI e and Q8 TFSI e, the battery recharges intelligently and only above speeds of approximately 65 km/h when in charge mode. This maximizes efficiency and ensures high levels of electric driving in the city and in stop-and-go traffic. What's more, in charge mode, the 3.0 TFSI is no longer constantly used to charge the battery; instead, recuperation alone is used. Charge mode ends when the battery has recharged to its maximum capacity at 75 percent to conserve the battery and increase efficiency.
The moments when the driver takes their foot off the accelerator pedal are crucial for the efficiency of the plug-in hybrid Q7 and Q8. The operating strategy switches to predictive efficiency assist (PEA) in these situations. In addition to navigation data, this driver assistance system uses the distance to the vehicle in front to decide between coasting with the TFSI switched off and recuperation, i.e., recovering kinetic energy and converting it into electrical energy. In thrust phases, the Q7 and Q8 TFSI e can recover up to 25 kW of power and feed it back into the lithium-ion battery.
Operating as a generator, the electric motor performs all light to moderate braking up to 0.3 g, corresponding to more than 90 percent of all deceleration events in everyday driving. The hydraulic wheel brakes only need to be used for heavy braking. The hybrid SUVs achieve up to 80 kW of recuperation power during braking.
When the optional adaptive cruise assist with radar cruise control is active, the PEA helps with deceleration and fuel-saving acceleration. If turned off, the Audi virtual cockpit or optional head-up display indicates to the driver when they should take their foot off the right pedal. Detail icons such as intersections, city signs, or vehicles ahead illustrate the reason for the reduction in speed.
Optimized equipment range to meet every need
High-intensity LED headlights light up the road as standard; Matrix LED headlights are available as an option. Innovative HD Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light as an additional high beam for a significantly increased beam range are available as a further option. New for the top-of-the-range headlights are digital daytime running light signatures. They give the partially electric Q7 and Q8 a characteristic and unmistakable appearance, allowing the user to select one of four individual light signatures via the MMI. For the first time, the vehicles also come optionally with largely digitalized OLED rear lights, which also have digital light signatures. Moreover, the digital OLED rear lights feature proximity indication in conjunction with the assistance systems.
Like the product upgrade for the base versions, the electrified Q7 and Q8 have a significantly upgraded equipment range. In addition to contrasting colors for the seat stitching, customers can choose from nine decorative inlays and three new finishes. The wheel range includes five new designs for sizes ranging from 21" to 23" (depending on the model). Audi has also expanded the range of apps and driver assistance systems as part of the model upgrade.
The standard equipment is also being expanded and now includes, among other features, 19" to 21" alloy wheels (depending on the model and equipment package), a rearview camera, park and high beam assist, and the convenience key. In contrast to the 55 TFSI e quattro, the 60 TFSI e quattro rolls off the line with the S line exterior and sport package as standard. Both models also come as standard with a Mode 3 charging cable.
Reliable in any situation thanks to all-wheel steering and roll stabilization
Only an Audi drives like an Audi: This is how the brand with the four rings sums up an Audi's DNA, and it's no less true for the brand's plug-in hybrids. Five characteristics define the Q8's handling: balanced, solid, controlled, precise, and effortless. The suspension, steering, and drive, as well as the braking and control systems, all play a key role in creating a reliably safe, dynamic, and simultaneously comfortable driving experience.
Even the standard equipment, including balanced steel spring suspension with damper control, gives both SUVs a consistent driving experience. Electronically controlled air suspension with a continuously adaptive damping system - adaptive air suspension or adaptive air suspension sport - is optionally available. Customers who purchase a Q7 60 TFSI e or Q8 60 TFSI e enjoy air suspension as part of the standard equipment. In addition, and for the first time in the plug-in hybrids, optional all-wheel steering ensures increased safety and comfort. At low speeds, the back wheels turn up to five degrees in the opposite direction to the front wheels. This reduces the turning radius by up to one meter and increases maneuverability. At the same time, the driver feels more comfort and stability at higher speeds because the back wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels.
Electromechanical active roll stabilization (eAWS) ensures even more dynamics as another optional first for the plug-in hybrids. Both axles are equipped with a compact electric motor coupled to a transmission in this system. It splits the stabilizer into two halves and, when driving straight, allows them to work largely independently of each other, which reduces body movements on uneven roads. In sporty driving, however, the electric motor causes the two halves to rotate in opposite directions of each other, so they work together as a unit. This means that the car leans into the curve significantly less for a more precise steering response. The eAWS is powered by a 48-volt supercapacitor. The compact, lightweight energy storage unit, which can absorb and release high currents in a very short time, supplies the two electric motors with a maximum power of 1.5 kilowatts each.
Up to 90 km of all-electric range in urban driving; available to order from April 2024
The new Audi Q7 TFSI e quattro and Q8 TFSI e quattro with intelligent hybrid technology and revised design, innovative lighting technology, and extensive standard equipment will be launched at the end of April 2024. Prices for the Q7 55 TFSI e quattro start at 85,500 euros, while the more powerful 60 TFSI e quattro costs 96,000 euros. The new Audi Q8 55 TFSI e quattro is available to order for 92,900 euros; the Q8 60 TFSI e quattro starts at 103,200 euros.
09-01-2004, 09:57 PM
Article mentions X6 / SUV-Coupe market. Which I'm sure takes some sales from the X5/GLE.
