Audi has confirmed it will build a large electric 4×4 that will sit between its Q5 and Q7 off-roaders with a new concept car ahead of the Frankfurt motor show.
The production model is scheduled for sale 2018, and Audi claims it will have a possible real-world range of more than 310 miles.
Known as the e-tron quattro concept, the vehicle benefits from things learnt during the development of the forthcoming R8 e-tron electric supercar.
No power outputs have been revealed yet, but Audi said the e-tron quattro is powered by lithium-ion batteries which are positioned between the axles and below the passenger compartment for a low centre of gravity, with the three electric motors – one on the front axle and two on the rear – power all four wheels.
Earlier this year, Audi revealed a plug-in hybrid version of the Q7, which is expected to go on sale by the end of this year.
It is powered by a 258hp 3.0-litre oil burner, which is mated to a 94kW motor and eight-speed automatic gearbox. Audi claimed it is capable of travelling 34.8 miles on electric power alone – a record in the segment.
The German car maker added that the plug-in hybrid model is capable emitting less than 50g/km of CO2.
When it goes on sale, it will become Audi’s second plug-in hybrid after the A3 e-tron, and the firm’s first plug-in diesel hybrid.
