Q8 E-Tron Dakar Edition: Electric on the water: This is how Audi’s new off-road electric car drives

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Sand, dust and stones as far as the eye can see. The coastal road from Salalah in the south of the Kingdom of Oman passes directly through the desert. Suddenly the asphalt runs out. Despite the dead-end sign, the navigation system still points straight ahead. So our column rolls into the field – blindly into the sand kicked up by the Audi in front.

Electric cars race on race tracks and break records. And yet they work in daily life. But electric off-roading? No one is doing this yet. So what is Audi’s idea to launch its Q8 E-Tron electric SUV flagship as an off-road version called Edition Dakar? First, the marketing: Three Audis will start at the 46th Dakar Rally on January 5; If things go well there, this may also be reflected in the special model.

Rustic stands out

Second: Since so-called off-roaders, toned down thanks to the crossover boom, have long been on every street corner, rustic SUVs such as the Ford Bronco, Toyota Land Cruiser or Ineos Grenadier still attract attention. It is quite possible that some of us will also like the Q8 E-Tron, which has an off-road appearance with a spare tire on the roof.

Our sample is still considered a prototype, but it fully corresponds to the production version: technically it has 6.5 centimeters more ground clearance plus small 18-inch off-road tires – they have more space in the wheel arches and therefore can change direction and change direction more. Additionally, 5.7 centimeters more track and adjustable air suspension ensure maximum ground clearance off-road. However, water crossings deeper than 30 centimeters are not possible; The underbody battery can tolerate more, but the wheel bearings and brakes cannot.

What remains is primarily optics: external roof rack with spare wheel and special bag, grille in vehicle color, plus three special colors and wider wheel arches. A total of 99 pieces will be delivered specially partially foiled and numbered. Inside, there are stainless steel pedals, microfiber sports seats, aluminum strips and black faux leather. In off-road mode, the infotainment system displays the longitudinal and lateral tilt as well as the steering position.

Electric excels off-road

Nothing has changed in the propulsion system; because it is perfect for off-road driving: with internal combustion engines, you need to delicately manipulate the accelerator pedal and clutch to take off on a hill. Two electric motors with a total output of 408 hp (300 kW) put the Q8 E-Tron Edition Dakar into action immediately; surface and slope make no difference.

We lift the seat back upright and approach the steering wheel: With a loose hand on the wheel, the Q8 finds its way over the stones and rubble as if it were on its own. If the road gets narrow, we turn on the front camera; This shows where sharp pieces threaten the rims and tires. The five-seater surfs even the dusty inclines between ups and downs with light drag and is much lighter than one would expect from its 2.6-tonne engine. Only camels are impenetrable: If you are covering the slope with fortitude, you have to wait patiently.

Great look, great features

Of course, no one drives off-road economically, so the display shows over 30 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per 100 kilometers. The regular Q8 E-Tron with the same 408 hp can travel around 580 kilometers, while in the desert version this is a maximum of 450 kilometers. Like the production model, it charges with a maximum charging power of 170 kilowatts; This is 30 kilowatts. From ten percent to 80 percent in minutes on the fast charger. If the hotel only has custom-made charging stations, as in the oil country of Oman, this process can take much longer.

Since you can do the Züriberg without off-road tires, the Q8 E-Tron Edition Dakar also comes with regular 21-inch summer tires. Still, the desert electric car is no bargain at at least 135,800 francs. It may be 10,000 francs more, limited to foil. But it has outstanding looks and precision: it can also go off-road if you want.

Source: Blick