Audi is gearing up for the US launch of the 2019 e-tron by revealing the crossover has an EPA-estimated range of just 204 miles (328 km).
That’s significantly less than expected and it means the e-tron travels 30 miles (48 km) less than the Jaguar I-Pace. More importantly, the Tesla Model X Long Range can travel nearly 50% further as it has a range of 295 miles (475 km).
The short range also means the $74,800 crossover can’t even beat mainstream electric vehicles. In particular, the Tesla Model 3 Standard Range can travel 220 miles (354 km) while the Nissan Leaf Plus goes 226 miles (364 km). The Chevrolet Bolt and Kia Niro EV can also travel further as they both have ranges just shy of 240 miles (386 km).
While the range isn’t very impressive, Audi noted the average premium vehicle owner only travels about 30 miles (48 km) per day. This means e-tron owners could go almost a week without recharging.
When it comes time to recharge, drivers won’t have to wait around too long as Audi says the e-tron has the “fastest charging speed of any electric SUV.” When using a 150 kilowatt high speed public charger, owners can get approximately 54 miles (87 km) of range in just 10 minutes. After a half an hour, the model will have about 163 miles (262 km) of range.
Speaking of speed, the crossover has two electric motors that produce a combined output of 355 hp (265 kW / 360 PS). The e-tron also has a Boost Mode which increases the output to 402 hp (300 kW / 408 PS) and this allow the model to run from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 5.5 seconds.
The 2019 Audi e-tron will be delivered to reservation holders in the United States next month and demonstration vehicles will arrive at dealerships around the same time. The model will be eligible for a $7,500 tax credit and it will come nicely equipped with leather upholstery, heated / ventilated front seats and a Bang & Olufsen premium audio system. Buyers will also find an air suspension, a panoramic glass sunroof, GPS navigation and a four-zone automatic climate control system.