The Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar represents a pinnacle of automotive engineering, blending the robustness required for off-road adventures with the sleek elegance and performance expected on city streets. Drawing inspiration from the formidable desert rally after which it is named, this special model isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence.
From its raised chassis and optional decals echoing the RS Q e-tron’s desert-conquering design to the unmistakable sporty off-road look, every inch of the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar speaks of power, elegance, and an adventurous spirit.
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Exterior Design and Performance
The exterior of the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar is a harmonious blend of form and function. It’s available in a choice of Siam Beige metallic, Mythos Black metallic, or Magnetic Gray, ensuring that it stands out in any setting. The vehicle’s stance is bold and confident, courtesy of widened and continuous wheel arch trims at the front and rear.
The Singleframe, always finished in body color, adds to the distinctive look, while optional projection light in the Singleframe creates a visually consistent connection between the headlights.
This special model rolls off the production line with a remarkable net battery size of 106 kWh, offering a range of up to 487 kilometers according to the WLTP. Its quattro drivetrain, equipped with two motors, delivers 300 kW in boost mode with a torque of 664 Nm, allowing the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.8 seconds on standard tires, or 5.9 seconds with the General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tires.
These tires, specially designed for diverse terrains, enhance the vehicle’s grip on various surfaces, including gravel, stony terrain, and snow, making the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar an ideal companion for the adventurous.
“When discussing the off-road capabilities of an electric car, we are talking about the torque, the specially adapted chassis, and the drive system. In the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar, our customers will be able to experience what an electric drive system can achieve in off-road conditions. This model offers the best combination of reliability and performance off the beaten track,” says Fermín Soneira Santos, Audi Head of Electric Models from the A to C Segment.
Interior Luxury and Technology
The interior of the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar is where luxury meets functionality. It comes standard with the S line interior, featuring deeply contoured sports seats upholstered in Dinamica microfiber and artificial leather. The multifunction sport leather steering wheel, elegant black roof lining, stainless steel pedals, and comfort center armrest further enhance the sense of luxury.
The Audi Sport stitching package, available as an option, adds contrasting accents with colored stitching on various interior elements, bringing a sporty and dynamic feel to the cabin.
Safety and Convenience
Safety and convenience are paramount in the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar. The vehicle comes equipped with the City and Tour assistance packages as standard, providing an array of features designed to make every journey safer and more comfortable.
The optional ambient light package plus stages the interior to great effect, featuring extensive contour lights in up to 30 colors that trace the elemental lines of the interior, creating an immersive and customizable environment.
Off-Road Capability
The Q8 e-tron edition Dakar is not just about luxury and performance; it’s also about conquering challenging terrains. With 31 millimeters higher ground clearance compared to the base model, the electric SUV is designed for better handling on loose surfaces such as gravel or snow.
Its control strategy for the air suspension has been revised to meet the requirements typical of off-road driving, ensuring that the vehicle remains stable and responsive no matter the terrain. The vehicle’s ramp angle of 19 degrees and wading depth of 300 mm further attest to its off-road capabilities.
In conclusion, the Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar is a masterclass in automotive design and engineering. It offers a unique blend of off-road capability, on-road performance, luxurious comfort, and cutting-edge technology, making it the perfect choice for those who demand the best in every aspect of their vehicle.
The Audi Q8 e-tron Edition Dakar: Conclusion
With its advanced features, striking design, and uncompromising quality, the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar is more than just a car; it’s a symbol of adventure, freedom, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
The Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar is designed to satisfy even the most discerning drivers, offering a unique combination of performance, luxury, and versatility that sets a new standard in the world of premium electric SUVs.
Whether navigating city streets or exploring off-road trails, the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar is equipped to provide an exceptional driving experience, reflecting Audi’s commitment to innovation, quality, and design.
As it becomes available for order in the first quarter of 2024, with prices starting from around 120,000 euros in Germany, it stands as a testament to what the future of automotive luxury and performance looks like.
