Audi to present hybrid variants at Geneva

Audi is presenting the hybrid variants of the models A8, A7 Sportback, A6 and Q5 at the Geneva Motor Show.

The models feature an electric only range of more than 40 kilometers in the WLTP cycle. These new plug-in hybrid models will be available for order during the course of the year 2019.

The lithium-ion battery for the A6, A7 and A8 is made up of 104 pouch cells, which are combined in eight modules. It stores 14.1 kWh of energy at a voltage of 385 V.

In the Q5, the lithium-ion battery comprises prismatic cells and has the same capacity. In each case, the cooling circuit of the battery is integrated in the low-temperature circuit, which supplies the electric motor and the power electronics. The power electronics transform the direct current of the high voltage-battery into a three-phase current for the electric motor; when recuperating, it does the opposite.

The standard heat pump ensures efficient vehicle climate control and can generate up to 3 kW of heat energy from 1 kW of electrical energy with the waste heat occurring in the vehicle.

The powertrain in the Audi Q5 PHEV follows the same concept as the Audi A6 and A7, which have the following drive modes: EV, Auto and Hold. With the operating mode button, the In Auto mode, the PHEVs use the intelligent interaction of the electric motor and the combustion engine for maximum efficiency. In “Hold” mode, the drive management controls the powertrain so that the current charge status of the battery is maintained, e.g. for driving later in electric-only mode in urban areas.

The compact charging system is also part of the standard equipment of the new Audi plug-in hybrids. It comprises cables for the domestic and industrial sockets and a control panel.
As an option, Audi supplies the wall-holder clip and a mode 3 cable for public charging stations. At a charge connector with an output of 7.2 kW, a full charge of the battery takes a good two hours.

At the market launch of the Audi e-tron, Audi customers can supply their house and their garage with eco-electricity, generated free of CO2 emissions, from the “Volkswagen Naturstrom” brand. It is generated 100% from renewable sources, such as hydroelectric power plants. If necessary, Audi can support customers in getting them in contact with an electrician for implementing a suitable charging solution in their own garage.