Bait-and-switch is a term quite often applied when a concept transforms into a production series vehicle; we’re teased by the promise of an alluring new model, only to see it stripped of any appeal by the time it leaves the factory floor.
Not so with the Audi e-tron GT: the German marque unveiled the electric sports sedan study back at the 2018 LA Auto Show, and recent spy shots strongly support that it will stay faithful to the show car. So what’s changed and what else can we expect? Lets illustratively delve further.
Spot The Differences
Peeling back the camouflage reveals the same dramatic looks as its conceptual precursor. However, the main differences (if you’re a trainspotter) can be seen in the less expressive lower door creases, smaller diameter wheels, along with conventional door handles as opposed to Tesla-style pop-out items.
Photo Renderings Copyright CarScoops / Josh Byrnes
The 2018 Audi e-tron GT Concept from the LA Auto Show
The business-end features slightly different LED matrix headlights, inverted ‘single-frame’ grille, a straighter lower intake graphic, while the hood has a softer middle pressing. Side mirrors are conventionally larger, however, slimline camera replacements will be available in some countries.
Overall, the rear profile is similar to the Audi A7 and features prominent rear haunches, striking sequential full-width LED taillights, and an active spoiler to improve aerodynamic stability.
Under The Skin
Strong conceptual ties are evident throughout the cabin too. Here, digital-centric interfaces and lack of physical buttons are notable, as is the integrated touchscreen which doesn’t look like a tablet-style sore thumb as found in many new cars today.
The production model is expected to retain most of the e-Tron GT Concept’s interior design and features seen here
Whilst the e-Tron GT shares its sloping roofing profile with the Taycan, it doesn’t limit headroom in the rear and features a specially designed battery which allows for rear footwell recesses. Expect a plethora of highly-advanced driver assists, WiFi connectivity and a vegan-friendly, highly crafted 4-seat interior.
Underneath, the e-Tron GT shares the same J1 architecture as the Porsche Taycan. This means the body will be a lightweight mix of aluminum and steel, with the underfloor battery acting as a load-bearing component which enhances crash protection.
Performance To Stun
The concept sported a pair of electric motors (one per axle) that pumped out a combined 582 hp (434 kW). With the assistance of all-wheel-drive and a two-speed transmission, this enabled a rapid 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint in 3.5 seconds.
Prototypes of the Audi e-tron GT have been caught testing out in the open
A range of over 400km (248.5 miles) is possible due to its 90kWh battery pack, while thanks to the 800V charging system enables 20-minute top-ups (via 350 kW DC fast charging in ideal conditions), which is faster than anything else in the market right now, including Tesla’s superchargers.
Like the Taycan, regenerative braking can recuperate up to 265kW, and it’s anticipated there will be different tiers of performance and range options available; with standard, long-range and ballistic S and RS variants.
Rivals & Reveal
The e-Tron GT will face a multitude of electrified luxury and sports sedans in the form of Tesla’s Model S, the aforementioned Taycan, Mercedes-Benz EQS, and upcoming all-electric Jaguar XJ.
The Audi e-tron GT and Porsche Taycan will share their underpinnings
Pricing remains unknown, but it will surely be more affordable than the Porsche Taycan with an official reveal believed to take place later this year, though due to uncertainty around coronavirus exposure, it may not be at a traditional motor show.
Finally, what are your thoughts on the e-Tron GT – would you take one over the Porsche Taycan? Tell us in the comments below.
![](https://www.carscoops.com/wp-content/themes/carscoops/assets/images/icons/arrow.png"){kind=icon}