Audi Q4 Sportback E-Tron Concept Revealed

Audi has unveiled the Q4 Sportback E-Tron concept, previewing a new crossover SUV model that will enter production in 2021. The latest in Audi’s series of electric concept cars, the Q4 Sportback E-Tron provides a glimpse at the future styling, interior design, and technology that will define Audi’s next generation of EVs. The swoopy crossover couples a coupe-like profile with a versatile interior and an 82-kWh battery enabling up to 310 miles of range.

Overview of the Q4 Sportback E-Tron

• A crossover SUV concept that will inspire a production EV model arriving in 2021.
• Flaunts a sloped, coupe-like roofline for added style over the related Q4 E-Tron concept.
• Demonstrates Audi’s future interior design philosophy with minimalist styling.
• Powered by a rear-mounted 82-kWh battery pack supplying juice to dual electric motors – one on each axle.
• Quattro all-wheel-drive provides added traction and performance.
• Targets a range over 310 miles based on the WLTP testing cycle.

Exterior Design and Styling

The Q4 Sportback E-Tron’s exterior styling:

• Features a flowing coupe roofline and rear haunches for visual drama.
• Raked rear windshield connects to an integrated spoiler at the tail.
• Pronounced fenders house 22-inch aero wheels.
• Octagon-shaped Singleframe grille pays homage to Audi icons like the Quattro rally car.
• Horizontal headlights emphasize the sporty, wide stance.
• Cobalt blue accents on the grille, sills and diffuser add a pop of color.

Interior Design Concept

The cabin of the Q4 Sportback E-Tron embodies next-gen minimalism:

• Spacious ambiance within a compact footprint thanks to EVs’ packaging advantages.
• Vegan leather-free upholstery made from recycled plastic bottles.
• Light grey tones contrasted with inlays of dark blue ash wood.
• Horizontal decorative lines lend to the airy vibe.
• Flat-bottomed steering wheel evokes sporty driving character.
• Twin digital touchscreens for infotainment and climate controls.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

The dual-motor AWD system enables punchy performance:

• Total output estimated around 302 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque.
• 0-60 mph acceleration in 6.3 seconds.
• Top speed limited to 111 mph.
• Lower center of gravity from the floor-mounted battery pack aids handling.
• Independent suspension provides a refined ride.
• Performance oriented for a compact crossover SUV.

Electric Powertrain and Battery

Power comes from an 82-kWh lithium ion battery pack:

• Mounted below the floor between the axles to optimize weight distribution.
• Can charge at up to 125 kW, enabling faster charging.
• Energy is distributed to an electric motor on each axle by an electronic control system.
• Estimated max range of over 310 miles based on Europe’s WLTP cycle, likely 275+ miles U.S.
• 800V electrical architecture enables quick DC fast charging.

Interior Space and Versatility

The Q4 Sportback E-Tron balances style and practicality:

• Despite compact exterior size, the wheelbase enables generous rear seat legroom.
• Rear bench slides fore and aft 6 inches for flexible cargo and passenger space.
• With rear seats folded flat, up to 55 cubic feet of cargo room is available.
• Front trunk provides extra storage and houses charging cables.
• Roof rails accommodate cargo attachments for outdoorsy owners.

Technology and Connectivity

Audi’s latest tech features inside:

• Virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster provides reconfigurable information and imagery.
• Touchscreen MMI infotainment responds to text inputs and gestures.
• Navigation with intelligent voice control offers a personalized experience.
• In-car Wi-Fi hotspot provides connectivity for devices.
• Support for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Optional augmented reality head-up display overlays useful graphics onto roads.

Q4 E-Tron Model Range

The Q4 Sportback E-Tron will spawn a portfolio of models:

• A standard coupe-roofed Q4 Sportback E-Tron production model in 2021.
• A more practical Q4 E-Tron with a vertical hatchback profile.
• Lower-priced Q4 E-Tron models trading some performance and range for value.
• Higher performance SQ4 variants building on the Sportback’s sporty nature.
• Availability both in Europe and North America depending on the configuration.
• Strong anticipation from EV enthusiasts awaiting sporty alternatives from Audi.

Significance Within Audi’s EV Strategy

The Q4 Sportback E-Tron represents several strategic milestones:

• Audi’s first compact SUV developed as a dedicated EV model.
• One of over 20 EVs Audi plans to debut by 2025.
• Among the most affordable Audi EVs bringing entry-level pricing.
• Showcases Audi’s futuristic interior design philosophy.
• Builds on the positive reception of earlier E-Tron SUV concepts.
• Strengthen’s Audi’s growing EV portfolio beyond the flagship E-Tron models.

Audi’s Expanding EV Model Range

Audi is quickly expanding its battery-powered lineup:

• E-Tron SUV – Audi’s first long-range EV already on sale.
• E-Tron Sportback – Sleeker coupe-like variant on sale soon.
• E-Tron GT – Upcoming high-performance four-door coupe.
• Q4 E-Tron – Mainstream compact crossover planned for 2021.
• A6, A7, and A8 E-Tron variants – Electrified versions of core models.
• Q6 E-Tron – Electric crossover likely coming 2022.

Importance of the Compact Crossover Segment

The Q4 E-Tron models target a key segment:

• Compact luxury crossovers are surging in popularity compared to sedans.
• Typical compact crossover dimensions balance size, practicality and efficiency.
• Mainstream nameplates have proven customer appetite in the segment.
• Audi’s first dedicated EV entrant in this growing space.
• Tesla Model Y, Jaguar I-Pace and Mercedes EQC compete in the segment.
• Younger, urban professionals gravitate toward compact crossover appeal and EV technology.

Outlook for the Production Q4 Sportback E-Tron

The production model will closely resemble the concept but with finalized details:

• Slightly toned down exterior and interior design elements.
• Refined fit, finish, and material quality expected of production cars.
• Finalized battery range and performance specifications.
• Available advanced driver assistance features and interior options.
• Version offering a more affordable range tradeoff below 300 miles.
• Special SQ4 performance variant with boosted power.
• Competitive pricing aimed at reaching new demographics.

The Bottom Line

With the Q4 Sportback E-Tron concept, Audi makes a bold statement about its e-tron electric sub-brand. The sultry crossover gives EV enthusiasts a preview of Audi’s expanding lineup of practical and progressive electric models. While it hints at Audi’s exciting electric future, the production Q4 E-Tron models need competitive pricing and charging infrastructure to lure mainstream buyers.

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