Audi has revealed plug-in hybrid variants of the Q5, A6, A7 and A8 ahead of a public debut at the Geneva motor show.
The new plug-in hybrid models carry the ‘TFSI e’ designation, Audi is keeping the e-tron label for electrically driven cars.
According to WLTP testing, the electric-only range of the PHEVs is rated at more than 40 kilometres.
All of Audi’s PHEVs will use a turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor that is integrated in the transmission and a 14.1kWh lithium-ion battery pack housed beneath the luggage compartment.
The A8 TSFI e has its electric motor integrated together with the clutch in an eight-gear tiptronic transmission, while the A6, A7 and Q5 models have the electric motor integrated into a dual-clutch transmission.
To maximise the potential of PHEV technology, Audi has equipped each model with a variety of drive mode options. Every variant will feature 'EV', 'Auto' and 'Hold' modes.
Start takes place electrically in EV mode as standard. In Auto mode, the PHEVs will determine what combination of petrol and electricity is needed, while Hold mode can maintain the battery’s charge to use at a time when maximum efficiency is beneficial such as driving in urban areas.
Additionally, the driver can select between the ‘Comfort, ‘Efficiency’, ‘Auto’ and ‘Dynamic’ modes via the Audi drive select system.
In ‘Dynamic’ mode, the electric motor supports the petrol engine more intensively with its electric boost performance for maximum dynamic handling.
The optional Audi virtual cockpit and the MMI display present all important notifications concerning electric driving: a power meter, the range and all energy flows.
Audi’s Australian arm is yet to confirm when the TFSI e range will be available in local showrooms. Stay tuned.
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