Audi Unveils The Q8 e-tron edition Dakar
Highlights include a raised chassis, chunky tyres, optional decals and a starting price tag of EUR 120,000.
It was in November 2022 when Audi first unveiled the Q8 e-tron in SUV and Sportback forms. The electric vehicle (EV) was introduced in three derivatives – 50, 55 and SQ8. Audi has taken the Q8 e-tron 55 in SUV body style and created the edition Dakar. For those unaware, Dakar is one of the world’s most demanding desert rally races.
No. Audi isn’t entering the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar in an actual Dakar race. However, the conceived derivative packs some extra stuff that will help tackle rough and loose terrains. For instance, the electric SUV comes with General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres, which add 31mm to the ground clearance. By default, the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar has 206mm of ground clearance, which drops by 15mm, 17mm and 13mm at 85kmph, 100kmph and 120kmph, respectively. The ramp angle is 19 degrees, while the water wading depth is 300mm.
The Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar packs two electric motors, one on each axle. Together, they produce up to 402hp/664Nm, enough to post a 5.9-second standard sprint time with the chunky tyres. With standard rubber, the acceleration figure drops to 5.8 seconds. The top speed of 200kmph is the same in both cases. The 106kW battery can pack enough juice to deliver a WLTP-certified range of up to 487km.
Audi offers the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar in three colours – Mythos Black, Siam Beige and Magnetic Gray. The Singleframe at the front matches the body shade. The EV also has widened wheel arch trims at both ends, “edition Dakar” puddle lamps and a bespoke key cover. Optional extras include a projection light in the Singleframe, a convenience key with an anti-theft alarm system and a decal package inspired by the RS Q e-tron, limited to 99 units.
Rounding off the edition Dakar derivative is an enhanced list of features. The standard equipment includes Matrix LED headlights and taillights, tinted sun visors for the boot lid, rear door and side windows, an S line interior package, brushed matte aluminium inlays and a head-up display. The vehicle also includes storage and compartment packages, a roof rack with a 40kg load limit and eight tyres, including 20-inch summer tyres. The buyer could add more stuff, such as four-zone automatic climate control, virtual mirrors and a 705-watt, 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.
Order books for the Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar is open, with prices starting at EUR 120,000 (in Germany).
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