The exterior design of both luxury SUVs has also been updated, with revised front and rear styling giving these models an even more rugged character. For the first time, both plug-in hybrids are equipped with all-wheel drive systems that ensure the highest level of safety and comfort. Active electromechanical body sway stabilization (eAWS) provides dynamic control for these hybrids.
Greater driving distance
The powerplants of both plug-in hybrids include a 250 kW (340 hp) Otto cycle, three-liter, six-cylinder engine, a compact electric motor with a maximum power of 130 kW and 460 Nm of torque, and a new, more energy-transferring, liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery. The capacity of the 370-volt battery installed in the bottom of the car has increased to 25.9 kWh. The new, higher-capacity battery allows both plug-in hybrids to travel up to 90 kilometers in electric mode in urban conditions.
The improved electric motors for both 55 TFSI e quattro model versions make it possible to develop a maximum power of 290 kW (394 hp) and a maximum torque of 600 Nm. Off-road versions of the 60 TFSI e quattro are also offered, producing up to 360 kW (490 hp) and 700 Nm of torque. Q7 and Q8 models with these power plants from 0 to 100 km/h. accelerates in 5 seconds. The maximum developed speed of all modifications is limited to 240 km/h, and when the electric mode is selected – to 135 km/h. Hybrids can be charged with a power of up to 7.4 kW, and the replenishment of the energy reserve of a discharged battery up to 100 percent. lasts approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes.
Drive control
When the electrified Q7 and Q8 models are launched, their powerplants can immediately operate in hybrid or all-electric mode. The electric mode is adjusted so that the internal combustion engine does not start even when the accelerator is pressed to the bottom.
The updated Q7 TFSI e and Q8 TFSI e models also feature a feature that ensures intelligent battery replenishment during charging mode. This system is activated only when driving above 65 km/h. speed, so maximum efficiency is achieved, and when driving in the city and constantly braking and accelerating again, the power plant works in electric mode for a longer time. In addition, when charging mode is selected, the 3-liter TFSI engine is not used to replenish the battery’s energy reserves, and regeneration is used instead. To ensure battery longevity and increase efficiency, charging mode is turned off when the battery charge level reaches 75 percent.
The electric motor operating in generator mode performs light and medium-intensity braking up to 0.3 g of overload. In daily driving conditions, the regeneration system can perform more than 90 percent. all speed reduction functions. The hydraulic braking system of the car remains only for intensive braking. The energy regeneration equipment of plug-in hybrid SUVs reaches a power of up to 80 kW during braking.
Sophisticated equipment
The optional innovative HD-matrix LED headlights with an additional high-beam Audi laser illuminate a significantly greater distance. The top-of-the-line headlamps also have another unique feature – the optional style of digital daytime running lights.
The choice of four different daytime running lights gives the electrified Q7 and Q8 models a unique character and unique appearance. For the first time, both models can be optionally fitted with digital OLED taillights, which can also be styled. In addition, the rear OLED lights, which receive data from the auxiliary systems, warn of road users approaching the car.
Stabilization of body oscillations
The handling of the Q7 and Q8 SUVs is described by Audi engineers as balanced, solid, precise and effortless. All the most important units – suspension, steering mechanism, all-wheel drive, brakes and auxiliary systems – play an important role in ensuring safety, dynamism and the highest level of comfort.
Audi customers who order the Q7 60 TFSI e or Q8 60 TFSI e models will be able to enjoy the advantages of the air suspension offered as standard. In addition, for the first time plug-in hybrids are equipped with an all-wheel drive system that ensures additional safety and comfort.
From now on, buyers of plug-in hybrids are additionally offered the active electromechanical body sway stabilization system (eAWS), which ensures the highest level of dynamism. Both axles of the car are equipped with compact electric motors that split the stabilizer and are connected to the transmission.
When moving in a straight trajectory, different parts of the stabilizer can work independently of each other, which reduces body vibrations when driving on uneven surfaces. During sporty driving, the electric motors can turn the anti-roll bars in different directions, so it works as if it were one piece.
This allows for less body sway during cornering and provides more precise control. The eAWS equipment is powered by a 48-volt supercapacitor. Capable of receiving and transmitting a large electrical current in a very short time, this compact, lightweight battery provides 1.5 kW of power to two electric motors.
