Audi e-tron touches down in Australia

The Audi e-tron electric SUV has touched down in Australia months before its expected on-sale date.

Audi Australia shipped a prototype version of the pioneering crossover into the country last week to coincide with the rollout of its local charging network supplier, Chargefox.

According to Audi managing director Paul Sansom, Australian owners of the incoming e-tron, which arrives in the second half of 2019, will soon have access to a network of 350kW charging stations that will facilitate 80 per cent charge in just 30 minutes.

“Audi Australia is delighted to be announced as a foundation partner of the ultra-rapid Chargefox network,” said managing director Paul Sansom.

“This network of ultra-rapid chargers will allow Audi e-tron owners to fully enjoy the benefits of EV motoring on long journeys, as well as the everyday urban environment. By the time the Audi e-tron arrives here in 2019, the majority of the 21 chargers will be built, which will provide owners with every reassurance to tackle long distances.

“Our partnership with Chargefox shows that Audi Australia is committed to the future of electric vehicles in this country, and is laying the foundations for the success of our growing range of EVs in the coming years. By 2025, Audi will have 20 either full-electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles across our model range, and so this announcement is a very important step for us.”

Audi’s first confirmed electric offering in Australia will be the e-tron, a 300kW, all-wheel drive SUV that will offer more than 400km range.

Audi Australia has also confirmed it will take the e-tron Sportback variant shortly thereafter, following by more electrified vehicles.

The electric onslaught from manufacturers comes as industry stakeholders lobby for more government support. The Australian Renewable Energy Agency says there is work to be done in catching up with the rest of the developed world.

“EV charging networks are being rolled out in other countries, and Australia needs to catch up to ensure that we can experience the same benefits of improved driving experience, lower operating costs, and better environmental outcomes that electric vehicles offer,” ARENA chief executive Darren Miller said.

This past week, the Victorian state government pledged another $2 million towards electric vehicle infrastructure.