Audi participates in Dakar 2024 with the RS Q e-tron prototype. Therefore, the House of Four Rings decided to create one special limited edition version about the rally-raid-inspired Q8 e-tron and its prototype. From the new Audi Q8 e-tron Dakar edition 99 copies will be produced. It will arrive in Italy in the second quarter of 2024 at a price of about 130 thousand euros.
This special version based on Q8 55 e-tron quattro. Compared to the model on which it is based, the Dakar version can count on special off-road tires General Grabber AT3 (18-inch wheels). In addition, the SUV’s seating position has increased by 65 mm. As a result, the minimum ground clearance is 220 mm, and the fording depth is 300 mm.
By selecting the “lift” driving mode, you can raise the ground clearance by another 17 mm, bringing the car to +82 mm compared to the Audi Q8 55 e-tron quattro (attack, stall and departure angles are 21, respectively). 19 and 28 degrees). Audi has also revised the calibration and control logic for the adaptive air suspension.
As speed increases, the suspension gradually lowers compared to the standard setting: by 15 mm from 85 km/h, by a further 17 mm from 100 km/h and by a further 13 mm from 120 km/h, which contributes to stability, aerodynamics and autonomy . This model will arrive in Italy only in Mythos black with a single frame in body color. The SUV can also rely on wheel arches borrowed from the Audi SQ8 e-tron. When the doors open, special LEDs project the word “Dakar” onto the ground.
Appearance is characterized by the presence roof rack, with a load capacity of 40 kg, equipped with an outdoor bag with fixing straps. On the C-pillars we see the progressive model number, and the decorative films are inspired by the prototype that participated in the Dakar race.
The vehicle’s standard equipment includes, among other things, i Audi Matrix LED headlights with dynamic front and rear turn indicators, tinted side and rear windows. As for the passenger compartment, we see a multifunction sports steering wheel, a black headliner and stainless steel pedals. The decorative inserts are made of brushed matt aluminum, and the door sill trims are also made of aluminum. The top of the dashboard is covered in black faux leather. All the technologies usually offered in an electric SUV are also present. Infotainment graphics can be personalized with specific themes dedicated to this model.
When it comes to the powertrain, nothing changes compared to the Q8 55 e-tron quattro. So, in total we have two electric motors. 300 kW/408 hp and 664 Nm of torque. Everything works from one 114 kWh battery (useful 106 kWh). The car can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 200 km/h. Cruising range 450 km (WLTP).
The vehicle’s standard equipment includes the City and Tour assistance packages, a second passenger-side AC charging port, a Multi-Color Ambient Lighting package with 6 preset color profiles (providing targeted lighting effects and ambient lighting in 30 shades) and digital exterior mirrors.
Source: HD Motori
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