Tri-motor Audi e-Tron S launches

Audi is rolling out a higher performance S version of its e-Tron electric SUV wagon and e-tron Sportback.

Launching from August in Europe, the e-Tron S is due on-sale in mid-2021 in Australia. Pricing is a TBA, but considering the regular e-Tron kicks off at $137,700 when it launches here in September, it’ll clearly be a fair bit more than that.

The first production battery electric vehicle with three electric motors – the Ferrari SF90 Stradale also has three, but it’s part of a PHEV system – the e-Tron S adds a second motor to the rear axle.

All up Audi claims the e-Tron S pumps out as much as 370kW and 973Nm on overboost, can hit 100km/h from standstill in 4.5 seconds and achieve an electronically limited top speed of 210km/h.

That compares to the standard e-Tron 50’s 230kW/540Nm and 6.8 sec 0-100km/h time. The 55 offers 300kW/664Nm and a 5.7 sec 0-100km/h sprint.

Juice for the e-Tron S comes from a 95kWh lithium-ion battery. That’s well up on the standard e-Tron 50’s 70kWh pack and equivalent to the 55.

Claimed maximum range is 359km for the e-Tron S and 364km for the slightly slinkier Sportback. That sits between the claims for the 50 and 55.

A 150kW DC fast charger can recharge the battery from 5 to 80 per cent capacity in about half an hour, while 11kW AC chargers are also supported.

Two motors on the rear axles also allows Audi to tinker with the handling of the e-Tron S depending on the conditions. Torque can be distributed individually to each rear wheel and the all-wheel drive system is rear biased.

The e-Tron S can even drift when the ‘Dynamic’ mode is engaged.

The air suspension has also been retuned for sportier handling and steering and rides up to 76mm lower than standard.

The dynamic package also feature adaptive dampers and variable ratio electric-assist steering.

The S comes with a choice of 21- and 22-inch wheels, a revised front bumper, larger air intakes, a new diffuser, wider wheel arches and Nappa leather sports seats.