We’ve been waiting a long time for the Audi e-Tron GT. So long, in fact, that the company has just confirmed that an RS version of the electric saloon is in the works before the standard model has even turned a wheel in production form.
So, what do we know about e-Tron GT RS? Well, like the standard model, it shares Volkswagen’s J1 electric architecture with the Porsche Taycan. Audi is keeping performance details under wraps for now, but it’ll likely feature the same synchronous electric motors, one on each axle, for permanent all-wheel drive. Couple that with the near instant torque of an EV and you’ve got face-melting fun for you and three other passengers.
In concept guise, the e-Tron GT produces 582bhp, which is more than you get in the Taycan 4S but its short of the 671bhp you get in the Turbo and 751bhp on offer in the Turbo S. It’s highly unlikely the GT RS will better the Turbo S, given Porsche position as the VW Group’s sports brand, but it could slot in above the regular Turbo.
One of the difficulties performance car fans face with EVs is that they make no noise, and when you’ve got over 600bhp at your disposal most people will want to shout about it. So, Audi has come up with a neat solution. While all EVs must emit a sound at lower speeds, Audi is offering an optional Sound Package that amplifies the noises generated by the electric motors and emits it through speakers hidden around the car.
Yes, it’s not the same as a howling V10, but at least it’s amplifying the noises of the electric motors for a more organic sound compared to other EVs.
We’ll see the e-Tron GT RS launch alongside the standard model next year. Prices have yet to be announced, but we’d expect a figure north of £100,000.
Keyword: Audi confirms e-Tron GT RS is in the works