Audi A9 e-Tron confirmed; will rival Tesla Model S

Audi has reportedly confirmed its plans to launch an all-electric four-door sedan, which will boast of high performance figures. The upcoming sedan, which is likely to be called the A9 e-Tron, will rival the Tesla Model S. The Audi electric sedan is expected to be introduced in global markets by 2020.

The A9 e-Tron is expected have three electric motors, one of which sends power to the front wheels, while the remaining two power the rear wheels. These motors will likely be supplied juice from a liquid-cooled 95 kWh battery pack, which will be bolted below the passenger compartment to lower the car's centre of gravity.

This powertrain is expected to give the car an overall range of 500 km. Moreover, in addition to conventional charging, Audi will also be offering an 11 kW inductive charging option to the owners, which will allow them to use the company's wireless charging technology. The car will further get level four autonomous technology, which is one level up from what will be offered with Audi's current flagship sedan - the A8.

Audi officials have claimed that the company will have three electric vehicles in its global portfolio by the year 2020. Moreover, by 2025, 25% of Audi's line-up will be electrically powered. The manufacturer will also be working on a production model of the e-tron concept, which was showcased at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show.

The A9 e-Tron too will be built on an evolved version of the EV platform showcased by the e-tron Quattro concept. This platform will be different from the one that VW Group sister company Porsche is developing for the production model of the Mission E concept car.

Source: Autocar India