2025 Audi A8 e-tron: Everything We Know About The Design, Performance And Tech Of The Electric Flagship (2024)

Audi's impressive Grandsphere concept lays the foundation for the next generation, electric A8 flagship

2025 Audi A8 e-tron: Everything We Know About The Design, Performance And Tech Of The Electric Flagship (1)

by Josh Byrnes

October 2, 2021 at 13:37

2025 Audi A8 e-tron: Everything We Know About The Design, Performance And Tech Of The Electric Flagship (3)

by Josh Byrnes

This article contains independent illustrations based on the Audi Grandsphere Concept as well as information we’ve obtained. The renderings were made by CarScoops’ artist Josh Byrnes and they are not related to nor endorsed by Audi.

The 2021 German International Motor Show is living proof that large exhibitions can exist in a pandemic-infused era. The Munich show (IAA Mobility 2021) replaces Frankfurt as Europe’s leading event, emphasizing electrification and alternative mobility solutions.

One standout was Audi’s Grandsphere concept, the latest in a trio of ‘Sphere‘ show cars previewing the automaker’s future design direction. Audi has strongly hinted that it will morph into an all-electric A8, so with that in mind, we’ve envisioned how the production variant could look and explore everything else we know to date.

See Also: Imagining A Future BMW 7 Series Inspired By The E38

Illustrations Copyright Carscoops.com / Josh Byrnes

A Stunning Stance

Compared with rivals from Mercedes-Benz and BMW, the current A8, whilst handsomely restrained, could be considered a bit underwhelming in the aesthetics department. Our design study aims to rectify this by including elements of the Grandsphere concept into a bold, practical package.

Audi’s ‘singleframe’ grille has been completely reimagined with chrome highlights that spear towards the wheels. A low hood and slim headlamps exude hints of the R8 supercar, whilst the scalloped doors and upper beltline add to the svelte aesthetic. Whilst not as dramatic as the boat-tailed Grandsphere, the fastback rear end has OLED tail lamps and a floating roofline with sculptured rear buttresses.

At 211 in. (5,350mm) long and 79 in. (2,000mm) wide, with a wheelbase of 126 in. (3,190mm), the Grandsphere Concept is larger than even the long-wheelbase A8

First Class Travel

Audi interiors are arguably some of the best in the business, and the Grandsphere concept is no exception. The show car flaunted technological prowess with projected displays and gesture-based controls. Fortunately, the Ingolstadt automaker has reassured us that future models will retain physical controls for those who prefer a tactile-like experience.

While the concept’s steering wheel and pedals retracted into the bulkhead when in driverless mode, Audi said this is not something it plans for production

Taking on an elegant interpretation of the e-tron GT’s cabin, the next A8 will bestow improved occupant space, luxury, and sustainable materials. Expect features such as an augmented-reality heads-up display, digital services, a next-generation Audi Virtual co*ckpit and dynamic ambient lighting. For the ultimate in relaxation, Level 3 and 4 autonomous self-driving systems could also appear in the latter part of the e-tron’s model cycle.

Audi describes the Granshpere concept as a “private jet for the road”

Premium Performance

Underpinned by Volkswagen Group’s Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, the A8 e-tron shares its modular foundations with the upcoming Porsche Macan EV and Audi A6 e-tron. The 800-volt system utilizes a 120 kWh battery pack, which yields an approximate range of 750 kilometres (466 miles) between charges. DC fast-charging up to 270 kW enables an additional 186 miles (300 km) within 10 minutes, while a 5 to 80 per cent charge will only take 25 minutes.

See: Audi Grandsphere Concept Rewrites Next Gen A8’s Script, Looks Strikingly Elegant In Munich

Sticking to Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive philosophy, the A8 e-tron will have electric motors on the front and rear axles for the ultimate in torque-vectoring grip. The Grandsphere concept has a total output of 530 kW (700 hp / 710 PS) and 960 Nm (708 lb-ft) of torque for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of under 4 seconds. This configuration will likely be reserved for the range-topping S8 e-tron, with lower-powered versions also available.

The EQS, seen here in performance AMG 53 trim, is Mercedes-Benz’s flagship electric sedan

Rapid Rivals

Audi’s flagship EV will compete against the hyper-screened Mercedes-Benz EQS, the Tesla Model S, the Lucid Air and BMW’s upcoming i7. A variety of variants will likely be offered, including a Maybach-rivaling flagship possibly wearing the Horch name.

An official reveal is not expected until late 2024 or 2025, as the current A8 will be with us for a couple of more years following a mild facelift that will be introduced in the coming months.

Would you consider an electrified A8 over the competition? Share your views in the comments below.

Illustrations copyright Carscoops.com / Josh Byrnes | Live motorshow picture credits Stefan Baldauf / Guido ten Brink for CarScoops

2025 Audi A8 e-tron: Everything We Know About The Design, Performance And Tech Of The Electric Flagship (2024)

FAQs

What are the specs of the Audi A8 2025? ›

2025 Audi A8 Engine & Specs

The turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 makes 335 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque and features mild hybrid assist. All-wheel drive and an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission are standard. The A8 rides on a fully adaptive suspension system.

What is special about the Audi e-tron? ›

Standard on select Audi e-tron models, the quattro® all-wheel drive instantly switches between two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive in specific driving situations—offering additional grip before it's needed and efficiency when it's not. Instant torque.

Which innovations from the Audi e-tron are to be found on the Audi Q8 e-tron? ›

Faster charging

Charge your Audi Q8 e-tron with the aid of various charging options for use at home or out on the road. Now even more quickly at High Power Charging stations thanks to a higher charging capacity of up to 170 kW⁴.

What is the range of the A8 e-tron? ›

Every e-tron GT features an 83.7-kWh lithium-ion battery. The regular model gets an EPA-estimated 238 miles of range, but the RS model is rated slightly lower at 232 miles.

How long do Audi A8 engines last? ›

Audis can typically go up to 200,000 miles or 20 years without major repairs when they're properly maintained. They're fairly reliable cars, and Consumer Reports ranks them within the top 10 new car brands when it comes to reliability.

What is the Audi A8 known for? ›

The Audi A8 is one of the most impressive cars CR has ever tested. Its smooth and powerful drivetrain, serene ride, super comfortable seats, and elegant, tech-rich interior make this ultra-luxury sedan a delight to drive.

How long do Audi e-tron batteries last? ›

So, how often is Audi e-tron® battery service required? Generally, EV battery maintenance is only needed every 10,000 to 20,000 miles. At this interval, all the components of your EV battery should be checked. You can also stop by every 7,500 miles for a check on the battery coolant level.

Is the Audi e-tron 100% electric? ›

e-tron is the name of the Audi fully electric, model lineup. Audi e-tron models deliver progress you can feel: engaging performance, sophisticated design, and intuitive technology—all while offering innovation, comfort, and efficiency.

Do Audi e-tron hold their value? ›

An Audi e-tron will depreciate 41% after 5 years and have a 5 year resale value of $45,525. The chart below shows the expected depreciation for the next 10 years. These results are for vehicles in good condition, averaging 12,000 miles per year. It also assumes a selling price of $76,770 when new.

What is the most technologically advanced Audi? ›

Look no further than the new 2023 Audi A8. With an impressive array of features, this vehicle will impress even the most discerning drivers. From its advanced powertrain technology to its sophisticated design, this car has everything you need for a thrilling driving experience.

What platform is the Audi e-tron built on? ›

Volkswagen Group MLB Evo

How does Audi e-tron affect the environment? ›

And a life cycle analysis of the Audi Q4 40 e-tron shows that the dedication of Audi is paying off. If 100 percent green electricity is used to charge the vehicle during the utilization phase, the greenhouse potential is reduced by around 45 percent, thus saving approximately 14.3 tons of CO₂.

How much is an Audi A8 e-tron? ›

Starting at $75,595. Highs Hushed interior, spacious for adults in both rows, luxurious, techy cabin. Lows Rivals smoke it in a drag race, doesn't push the class's range threshold. Verdict As Audi's flagship EV SUV, the Q8 e-tron adheres closely to the brand's luxury- and technology-forward ethos to good effect.

Does Audi make an electric A8? ›

Performance: Supremely efficient and virtually silent in fully electric mode, the A8 L TFSI e has an official test value range of up to 37 miles 1 on a single charge. Complimented by a powerful 3.0-litre TFSI V6 engine that produces 462 PS, the A8 L TFSI e accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds.

What is the true range of Audi e-tron? ›

The battery of the Audi e-tron 55 quattro has a total capacity of 95 kWh. The usable capacity is 86.5 kWh. A range of about 225 miles is achievable on a fully charged battery.

Is the Audi A8 a fast car? ›

The A8 offers snappy acceleration, though it isn't as quick as some rivals. Power delivery is even and immediate, and the transmission shifts smoothly. According to Audi, the A8 has a zero-to-60-mph time of 5.6 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph.

What is the top speed of the Audi A8 3.0 T? ›

3.0T: The Audi A8 3.0T gets a supercharged 3.0L V6 that makes 333 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. According to Edmunds, this model will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in only 5.3 seconds. On the track, the A8 with this engine will hit 130 mph.

What new Audi is coming out in 2024? ›

The summer of 2024 will see a flurry of new models being unveiled, starting with the third-generation Audi Q5. The venerable family SUV won't look too different to the out-going car, but big changes are planned within. Expect a substantial tech upgrade and more hybrid powertrains.

What is the full speed of Audi A8? ›

The top speed of Audi A8 L is 250 kmph.

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