Audi RS e-tron GT Performance: For the Most Demanding

With the Audi RS e-tron GT Performance, the brand with the four rings launches its first fully electric RS performance model, a four-door coupe that, in addition to a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PSM) with 342 HP on the front axle, features a reinforced drive shaft and a newly developed second PSM motor on the rear axle delivering 564 HP.

The higher density of the copper winding in the stator forks of the electric motors maximizes current conduction, while the rotor of the rear motor is more compact and lighter. Overall, Audi has reduced the weight of the rear axle electric motor by ten kilograms. Both electric motors have power reserves for dynamic driving situations. Launch Control allows brief use of high-voltage battery resources and electric motors to achieve a maximum power of up to 925 HP.

One of the development goals for this high-performance model was to achieve high efficiency across all load ranges and repeatable power availability. This ensures superior performance. The adapted thermal management and intelligent interconnection of the four cooling circuits play a crucial role, especially in RS performance mode, which is an exclusive feature of this model. When power increases, the thermal management system activates the AC circuit to ensure sufficient cooling of the high-voltage battery.

The adapted cooling system simultaneously and actively reduces temperature in the cooling circuits of both the high-voltage battery and the two electric motors. Cooling of the motors, cabin climate control, and battery conditioning can be controlled almost independently of each other. Audi has made significant changes to pumps and valves to optimize thermal management system performance.

Not to be overlooked is the new "push-to-pass" function, which provides a power boost of 70 kW at speeds above 30 km/h for up to ten seconds, as indicated by a timer in the Audi virtual cockpit. When the driver activates "push-to-pass," the battery uses parameters similar to those for Launch Control. Simultaneously, propulsion system components automatically adjust to dynamic mode parameters in Audi drive select. After a minimum ten-second regeneration period, the function can be activated again.

Furthermore, the Audi drive select dynamic driving system allows drivers to control vehicle characteristics. It offers three profiles: efficiency, comfort, and dynamic. Additionally, two individually configurable RS-specific modes, RS1 and RS2, modify propulsion system parameters, suspension, ride height, and sound. Drivers can configure these modes directly via one of two red control satellites—specifically, the right one—located on the steering wheel, which is flat at both top and bottom.

As an exclusive feature, the RS e-tron GT Performance includes RS performance mode designed for demanding driving on circuits or winding mountain passes. The special characteristics of this driving mode allow optimal control of torque at maneuverability limits. RS performance mode also adjusts traction control system operation, torque vectoring, suspension settings, aerodynamics, and cooling. The strategy in RS performance program mirrors that in dynamic mode; thus, the RS e-tron GT Performance stays in first gear of its two-speed transmission as long as possible for more dynamic acceleration.

The design elements of the Audi RS e-tron GT Performance are very distinctive. The optional matte darkened carbon roof can be combined with other optional carbon camouflage elements used by Audi for the first time and available exclusively for this model. Carbon camouflage is used in relief structures on bumpers, door trim, parts of the diffuser, and side mirrors. The new exterior finish Verde Bedford is also available exclusively for the RS e-tron GT Performance.

As another highlight inside, this high-performance model incorporates a new exclusive design package with Verde Serpentina stitching matching Verde Bedford exterior and 18-way adjustable seats. Decorative inserts are also available in matte carbon camouflage matching exterior elements. As a tribute to the 1994 Audi Avant RS 2 with white analog instrument dials, the RS e-tron GT Performance features white digital power meters and speedometers.

In the RS e-tron GT Performance, customers can control vehicle sound: from silent electric driving to a progressive sound experience. The robust and high-quality e-tron Sport sound is standard. As an audible expression of Gran Turismo character, interior sound has been enhanced for this high-performance model with detailed harmonization especially in no-load speed range from 70 km/h to 90 km/h. Two control units and amplifiers in the trunk generate separate exterior and interior sounds emitted through two speakers—one outside and one inside.

The digital sound is based on data such as electric motor speed, accelerator pedal position, vehicle speed, and other parameters. The result is a synthetic sound sampled from 32 individual sources—ranging from various real recordings to edited synthesizer audio—that authentically supports propulsion system operation with rich nuances.