Demanding emission norms in major markets across the world has compelled several of the auto giants to divert their prime focus to electrifying their lineup in the coming years.
However, Audi
might have inched a step closer in turning the blueprints into reality ahead of its competitors. On September 2, the company manufactured its first e-tron model from its plant in Brussels.
Member of the Board of Management for Production and Logistics at AUDI AG, Peter Kossler who spoke about the new SUV stated that it is a 'true pioneer'. Adding to which he stated that the new SUV stands out from the rest of the lineup due to "innovative technologies such as virtual exterior mirrors and combines traditional Audi
qualities in handling and dynamics with technical Vorsprung that goes far beyond the car.”
To make it capable of the production of EVs Audi
began the revamp of its Brussel plant in 2016 and is now fully efficient to churn out e-models. To be specific, the company has built a brand new body shop, paint shop, and assembly line step by step, and has also set up its own battery production.
Apart from the mechanical changes, employees of the Audi
plant have reportedly undergone over 2,00,000 hours worth of EV-focussed training. Details of the new model have not been revealed yet. However, if reports are to be believed, the car will most likely have a 150kWh charging capacity that easily tanks up the E-Tron within 30 minutes of charging at a quick-charge station. The car is set to be launched on September 17.
The concept of the SUV which was introduced back in 2015 had three electric motors which produced a total output of 429bhp of power. However, it is unclear if the production model would carry the same specifications, which also claimed a maximum cruising range of 500km.
