PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM) recently announced the addition of two new models to its fully electric Audi e-tron range – the SQ8 e-tron and SQ8 Sportback e-tron.
The two new high-performance models in the Q8 e-tron range of Audi’s electric SUV and crossover models are priced from RM519,990.00 for the SQ8 e-tron, and from RM529,990.00 for the SQ8 Sportback e-tron.
The overall design of the SQ8 in SUV and Sportback emphasises the higher performance thanks to the “S” trip. Bumpers are more expressive while widened, while flow-optimised wheel arch panels give a more muscular image. The rear end, underscored by an aerodynamic diffuser, has LED lamps which provide a distinct visual signature at night.
The signature Singleframe grille (with projector lighting) is flanked by Digital Matrix LED headlamps. These advanced lighting units have around 1.3 million micromirrors that can be individually angled up to 5,000 times a second. Depending on the setting, the LED light and its coverage can be constantly varied for optimised illumination while taking into consideration other road-users.
Audi’s designers are pioneers in shaping bodies for the best aerodynamic efficiency and the SQ8 e-tron features include these details, to push the drag coefficient (Cd) down to between 0.24 and 0.27 (depending on bodystyle).
The proportions of the SQ8 e-tron models are similar to those of the Q8 e-tron but due to the more sports-oriented bodywork and aesthetics, the SQ8 e-tron models are 2 mm lower and 40 mm wider. The 2928 mm wheelbase is similar, ensuring that interior comfort – especially rear legroom – and boot volume is generous.
The SQ8 e-tron also offers up to 569 litres of storage space while the Sportback unravels 528 litres in the boot. Other features on the exterior are red-painted brake calipers, exterior mirror housings in carbon fibre, black roof rails and a black appearance plus package. Fitted as standard are Audi Sport 22-inch alloy wheels in the 5-arm ‘Interferenz’ style, finished in Titanium Gray and diamond-turned.
The SQ8 e-tron has three asynchronous motors, two of which are on the rear axle and powering each wheel separately. This is the first mass-produced Audi model with three motors.
The front axle is driven by an electric motor with a peak output of 124 kW. On the rear axle, there are two electric motors both with 98 kW of peak output that separately power a rear wheel. In boost mode, the front motor produces up to 157 kW, and the two rear motors up to 138 kW each. This would add up to 433 kW but the total system output is limited to 370 kW by the 114 kWh battery pack.
Besides sportscar acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h, the 3-motor drivetrain also enhances handling on winding roads. Because the two rear motors are not connected and power each wheel independently, precise and varied torque levels can be sent to each wheel.
When not required for hard driving, only a fraction of the available output is used. The electric motors at the rear are used more to drive the vehicle in normal daily conditions. When more output is used, the torque shifts to both axles so the SQ8 e-tron can offer the legendary quattro characteristics, enhanced by electric torque
vectoring.
The sophisticated electrical system in the SQ8 e-tron can handle charging supplies of up to 170 kW at DC charging points (where available) for shorter charging period. Charging duration with a DC high-speed charging point can be as short as 31 minutes from 10% to 80% (SoC). WLTP range is up to 471 kms for the SQ8 e-tron Sportback and 458 kms for the SQ8 e-tron.
The charging socket can also accept a standard mode 3 charging cable for AC charging with a Wallbox at home or a public charging station. With AC charging, the time will be between 9.15 hours to around 11.30 hours, depending on the power supply. There is also an on-board charger that allows for charging at up to 22 kW from
an AC outlet (where available).
For convenience, the SQ8 e-tron has an additional charging socket on the other side of the vehicle. This will make it easier to connect in certain locations where the charging station may be situated by the roadside. The driver can control the charging schedule from within the vehicle via the Audi Multi Media Interface (Audi MMI).
In 90% of all braking situations, the SQ8 e-tron will not use its disc brakes. With an intelligent regeneration concept, the SQ8 e-tron system recuperates via the electric motors alone, without needing the conventional brakes which then work as generators, converting kinetic energy into electrical energy that is stored in the
battery.
Despite being an SUV, the SQ8 e-tron has a low centre of gravity comparable even to a sedan. This is helped by the placement of the battery system in the floor between the axles, which also creates an axle load distribution that is almost the optimal 50:50.
The SQ8 e-tron has a cabin which is like that of the brand’s luxury-class models. In keeping with the sportier image of the model, front sports seats are Valcona leather with the “S” badge embossed.
Combinations of leather in areas such as the upper part of dashboard and lower interior elements with decorative inserts in carbon and aluminium look present the image of luxury as well as high tech. This is further enhanced by the Ambient Lighting Package plus and LED entrance lights at the front and rear doors.
A smartphone interface allows integration of most iOS and Android smartphones with the Audi MMI to control features such as navigation, music and selected apps.
The Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with 3D allows music to be experienced exactly as recorded, with a spatial dimension of height as well. The system has a highly efficient amplifier driving 16 loudspeakers with 705 watts.
Besides the progressive elegance of the unified interior design, the cabin of the SQ8 e-tron also demonstrates Audi’s commitment to sustainability with the use of many eco-friendly materials. Many of the safety-relevant components used – for example, the plastic covers of seat belt buckles – have been produced in part from mixed
automotive plastic waste.
Both SQ8 e-tron variants can be purchased with the optional Audi Assurance Package (AAP) which extends the vehicle warranty period to 5 years, with free scheduled maintenance for the first 3 years and complimentary roadside assistance for the first 5 years. The battery system is covered by a separate warranty of 8 years or 160,000 km. As with all warranties, terms and conditions apply.
