Audi has improved the range and efficiency of its plug-in hybrid (PHEV) SUV series, specifically the Audi Q7 and Q8, by increasing the capacity of their batteries. These vehicles now have an improved electric-only range of up to 53 miles thanks to an upgraded 25.9 kWh battery pack. For Audi lovers, this update also includes a number of additional features that will improve their driving experience.

Audi Q7, Q8 Facelift

Audi has debuted updated plug-in hybrid powertrains for its Q7 and Q8 models, boasting larger capacity batteries and upgraded electric motors. As reported by CarScoops, Audi has recently unveiled the refreshed Q7 TFSI e quattro and Q8 TFSI e quattro models. These plug-in hybrids showcase an upgraded powertrain aimed at enhancing their eco-friendliness and overall performance.

The battery is paired with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine and an adapted electric motor integrated into an eight-speed automatic transmission. This configuration grants the 55 TFSI e quattro versions a combined power output of 389 hp (290 kW / 394 PS) and 442 lb-ft (600 Nm) of torque. These figures represent impressive performance, enabling the crossovers to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 5.7 seconds.

The 60 TFSI e quattro features a "freshly designed electric motor," contributing to a higher combined output of 483 hp (360 kW / 490 PS) and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque. In addition to the powertrain enhancements, Audi has refined the "EV mode," ensuring exclusive battery-powered propulsion even when the accelerator pedal is fully pressed. Audi has also adjusted the charge mode to optimize efficiency and reduce engine usage.

Modes Available

As reported by SGCarmart, customers now have the ability to initiate either fully electric EV mode or hybrid mode in their Q7 or Q8 models following a product upgrade. Once selected through the MMI infotainment system, the chosen mode remains active until manually changed.

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The 'EV' mode has been improved to ensure exclusive battery-powered propulsion, even under full acceleration. In hybrid mode, two operating modes are available: auto and hold. In auto mode, a predictive operating strategy engages automatically upon navigation initiation with MMI navigation plus.

The 3.0-liter engine primarily provides acceleration, supplemented by the electric motor as required. At low engine speeds, the electric drive seamlessly fills the brief moment it takes for the turbocharger to build pressure, ensuring immediate responsiveness of the drive system.

In "Hold" mode, the battery's current charge is maintained steadily, minimizing fluctuations, achieved by capturing braking energy through recuperation. This enables users to navigate urban routes solely on electric power, resulting in zero emissions and minimal noise.

Furthermore, the upgraded product introduces a new capability: intelligent battery recharging, activated only above speeds of approximately 64 km/h in charge mode. This enhancement optimizes efficiency while prioritizing extensive electric driving in urban and stop-and-go traffic scenarios.

As per Top Gear, other notable standard features include adaptive air suspension and Audi's Virtual Cockpit Plus system. Pricing and delivery dates are yet to be revealed for both the new Q7 and Q8, but we expect the latter to start from around £70,000, and the former to be closer to £80,000. They should both be available to purchase by the time you understand the silly badging.

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