For the first time ever, the Audi A8 offers an
electrified powertrain, as a plug-in hybrid version has just been announced in
Europe. Available initially for the A8 L long-wheelbase model (a standard
wheelbase version will follow later), the PHEV combines the ultimate Audi
luxury with (relatively) low-emissions motoring.
Officially called Audi A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro, it
combines a 340 PS 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with a 136 PS electric motor for a total output of 449 PS and 700
Nm of torque available from just 1,250 rpm.
The gasoline engine, which is (also available in
non-hybrid form in the A8 55 TFSI), generates 500 Nm of torque,
while the permanently excited synchronous motor (PSM) delivers an instantly
available peak torque of 350 Nm. The motor is integrated together
with the clutch in the eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission, which
sends power to all four wheels via the quattro permanent AWD system.
A high-voltage, 14.1 kWh lithium-ion battery located
underneath the trunk floor feeds the electric motor, enabling an all-electric
driving range of up to 46 km as per WLTP and at a maximum speed of
135 km/h. However, when both power sources work together in boost
mode, the A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro can reach an electronically limited top speed
of 250 km/h and sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.
The electrified flagship is not just quick but also
efficient, as the WLTP-calculated average fuel consumption is as low as 2.5
l/100 km (94.1 mpg US) with corresponding CO2 emissions of 57 g/km, and its
minimum combined electric power consumption is 20.9 kWh/100 km.
The PHEV stands out thanks to specific design
details such as the light signature inspired by the Audi e-tron EV, chrome trim
on the front bumper, chrome inlays in the door handles, and a continuous
diffuser insert with a chrome clasp at the rear. The plug-in hybrid also features
exclusive 19-inch aluminum wheels with a turbine design.
The A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro can already be ordered in
Germany for a base price of € 109,000 (US$ 120,350). While deliveries in Europe
will begin in the fourth quarter of 2019, Audi made no mention of the model’s
availability in the United States.
