HATE ON EVS ALL YOU LIKE, BUT THE NEW AUDI RS E-TRON GT PERFORMANCE HAS 680 KW ON TAP.
Audi has unleashed its first fully electric RS performance model with the new RS e-tron GT performance. A four-door coupé, it packs Audi’s cutting-edge tech and meticulous attention to detail. This dynamic flagship sets a new benchmark for the brand’s electric mobility, offering power, sportiness, and unmistakable confidence. Under the hood, so to speak, the RS e-tron GT performance is equipped with a permanent-magnet synchronous motor (PSM) on the front axle, producing 252 kW, while the rear axle houses a newly developed PSM that churns out 415 kW. With higher copper density in the stator's winding, the electric motors offer enhanced current conduction, while the rear motor’s compact rotor helps shave 10 kilos off its weight. Both motors hold reserves of power, ready to respond to dynamic driving demands. Thanks to Launch Control, the RS e-tron GT performance2 can tap into its high-voltage battery and motors to briefly boost output up to a staggering 680 kW. Audi has also revised the front axle’s power electronics, fitting a pulse inverter capable of handling up to 600 amps - double the capacity of other variants like the S e-tron GT and the RS e-tron GT. Both axles now operate at 600 amps. Additionally, the regenerative braking system has been upgraded to 400 kW of recuperation, giving drivers a more pronounced one-pedal driving feel and improved energy recovery during coasting. “We’re enhancing both efficiency and driving feel. When you lift off the accelerator, you get an immediate deceleration, adding a sporty touch to everyday driving,” says Jaan Mattes Reiling, Technical Project Manager for the Audi e-tron GT family. A two-chamber, two-valve air suspension system comes standard, offering exceptional ride dynamics without sacrificing comfort. For those looking for more, Audi offers an innovative, wheel-selective active suspension system as an option. "Our focus was on increasing the balance between comfort and driving dynamics," says Carsten Jablonowski, Lead Engineer in Audi Driving Characteristics Development. The result is a ride that’s both smooth and agile, with steering precision improved for even more dynamic handling.
Exclusive to the RS e-tron GT performance is the RS performance mode. Tailored for high-speed circuits and tight, winding roads, this mode optimizes torque distribution, traction control, suspension settings, aerodynamics, and cooling to handle the most demanding driving situations. Performance mode holds the RS e-tron GT in its first gear longer, ensuring more aggressive acceleration and sharper throttle response. Standard on the RS e-tron GT performance2 is 20-inch wheels, with an optional upgrade to 21-inch wheels. For a bold, visual statement, Audi offers a matte carbon-fibre roof that can be paired with new carbon camouflage accents—exclusive to this model. The unique carbon details are featured on the bumper inlays, rocker panels, parts of the diffuser, and side mirrors. Audi also introduces a new exterior finish, Bedford Green, created specifically for this performance variant. “Every element of the RS e-tron GT performance2 is carefully curated, from the carbon-fibre roof to the seat belts. This vehicle is a true design statement,” says Christopher Kröner, Colour & Trim Designer at Audi. “The use of carbon material here is multidirectional, meaning it shifts and changes depending on the viewing angle. It’s all about balance—sportiness meets elegance in a way that feels both agile and restrained depending on the light.” Prices for the RS e-tron GT performance start at €160,500, the S e-tron GT5 starts at €126,000 and the RS e-tron GT4 at €147,500. Roughly translated, the range-topper is around R3,200,000, but we’ll have to wait and see what the actual local list price will be, and that’s if the car is even headed to our shores. I was lucky enough to drive the previous model, and besides the press car I drove, I’ve only seen one other model on the road in the last two years.
Take a look at the YouTube video that shows off the absolutely stunning new version of the coolest electric saloon on the market, the Audi e-tron GT that packs in silly amounts of power while being luxurious and sporty at the same time: Audi e-tron GT - The Test | Audi
Be sure to check out our YouTube channel here for more exciting and exclusive SXdrv content! And don't forget to smash that subscribe button!