Electric cars are no strangers to the Autocar India long-term garage, but with the MG Comet, Mercedes-Benz EQB and the Audi Q8 e-tron, we’re kind of electric-heavy right now. Which meant that despite me generally avoiding them, for a few days last month, I ended up with the keys to the Audi. It’s not that I don’t like EVs; the issue is that I stay 35km away from the office and my apartment complex has no charging facility. However, I wasn’t worried at all about having to use the Q8 e-tron over a weekend.
About a year and a half ago, I did use the previous e-tron and it comfortably managed my weekend running of around 200km with its 95kWh battery pack, using up to 45 percent of the charge. So the updated e-tron would manage another weekend stint comfortably with its larger 114kWh battery pack.
And it did; office to home and back, plus two days of roaming around Mumbai’s suburbs meant I did 140 kilometres and used up 36 percent of the charge, which would equate to a range of about 390 kilometres. But that’s not the story. What is, is just how ‘normal’ it felt.
Also not challenged was the 4-zone climate control system. December in Mumbai is a relatively cooler month and the Q8 e-tron’s AC cooled the cabin quickly and easily. And it was here that I found a rather handy feature. I generally set a temperature cooler than my wife does, but my feet tend to feel cold. In the Q8 e-tron, what’s nice is that you can set a warmer – or cooler, if you like – footwell temperature; that’s a really neat little detail to have.
- Design and Aesthetics: The Audi Q8 e-tron's design is a harmonious fusion of sleek aesthetics and bold SUV presence. The lack of a traditional front grille, typical of combustion engine models, adds a futuristic touch, subtly signaling its electric identity.
- Interior Comfort and Luxury: Stepping inside the Audi Q8 e-tron is an experience in luxury and comfort. The spacious and well-appointed interior is crafted with premium materials, showcasing Audi's commitment to a high-quality driving environment. Plush leather seats, advanced infotainment systems, and thoughtful design elements contribute to a sophisticated and comfortable cabin.
- Infotainment and Connectivity: Audi's MMI infotainment system in the Q8 e-tron offers a seamless blend of functionality and user-friendly controls. The touch-sensitive screens, voice commands, and intuitive interface make navigating through various features a breeze. Smartphone integration, wireless charging, and Audi's virtual cockpit enhance the overall connectivity experience, catering to tech-savvy drivers.
- Driving Dynamics and Performance: With an electric powertrain delivering instant torque, the Audi Q8 e-tron provides a responsive and exhilarating driving experience. The driving dynamics are enhanced by the low center of gravity, courtesy of the floor-mounted battery pack.
- Range and Charging: One of the critical aspects of any electric vehicle is its range, and the Q8 e-tron delivers commendable figures. After covering 1,500 kilometers, the real-world range aligns closely with Audi's official estimates. The convenience of home charging and access to an expanding public charging infrastructure contribute to a hassle-free ownership experience. The Q8 e-tron's fast-charging capability is particularly noteworthy, providing a significant range boost in a short charging time.
- Regenerative Braking and Efficiency: The regenerative braking system in the Audi Q8 e-tron contributes to its efficiency by recapturing kinetic energy during deceleration.
- Ownership Costs and Maintenance: While the initial investment in an electric vehicle may be higher, the overall ownership costs are often competitive. The Q8 e-tron benefits from reduced maintenance requirements associated with electric powertrains, including fewer moving parts and a simplified drivetrain. Audi's warranty coverage and after-sales support further contribute to a worry-free ownership experience.
- Challenges and Considerations: Despite the many advantages, owning an electric vehicle does come with its set of challenges. The availability of charging infrastructure in certain regions may still be a concern, and prospective buyers should consider the charging options available in their areas. Additionally, while the range is impressive, longer journeys may require strategic planning to ensure access to charging stations along the route.
- Future Software Updates and Features: As with many modern vehicles, the Audi Q8 e-tron is equipped with advanced software systems that can be updated remotely. The ability to receive over-the-air updates ensures that the Q8 e-tron remains technologically relevant and up-to-date.
That aside, the Q8 e-tron has been simply superb, doing everything asked of it and, as I mentioned earlier, in a straightforward and normal fashion. There’s nothing really to consciously think about; not the range for everyday city life, not the luggage space even for an airport run, not even some overtly complicated menus and ‘EV’ gimmicks like having to choose which artificial sounds you’d like. It’s like a USB drive; a handy plug-and-go device. Perhaps I’ll hold on to its keys a bit longer.