Significantly, the first AUDI model was developed in just 18 months – less than half the time of traditional Audi models.
Audi CEO Gernot Döllner previously emphasised that the Audi-SAIC partnership provides a foundation for a “new generation of advanced, intelligent vehicles, which will be exclusive to China”.
“The joint platform allows us to address a promising yet demanding segment with state-of-the-art connected vehicles,” he said.
At 4870mm long, with a 2950mm wheelbase, 1990mm wide and 1460mm tall, the E is claimed to offer a roomier interior than the similarly sized A5.
The styling of the E combines flamboyant LED light designs with clean and largely unadorned surfacing, to provide it with a more monolithic appearance than more recent models from the main Audi brand.
Based on the new Advanced Digitalised Platform developed by Audi and SAIC, it features an 800V electrical architecture and a dual-motor drivetrain that delivers a combined 754bhp and up to 590lb ft of torque.
With Quattro four-wheel drive and torque vectoring capability, AUDI claims a 0-62mph time of 3.6sec.
A 100kWh battery also provides the E with a range of more than 435 miles under China’s under CLTC test standards.
Details of the charging rate are yet to be revealed, but the E is claimed to offer a 300km (186-mile) replenishment of energy stores in 10 minutes on a high-powered DC charger.
Other features being touted for the upcoming production version of the E are four-wheel steering and air suspension.
