Audi has whipped the wraps off its new Q4 Sportback E-tron concept, which effectively previews the 2021 production version of the sleekly styled electric crossover.

The Ingolstadt-based firm says the fresh-faced Q4 Sportback E-tron concept is the “identical twin” of 2019's Q4 E-tron concept from a “technical perspective”, but obviously features a different profile thanks to its coupé-like body style.

Audi says this gives potential Q4 customers “the opportunity to start thinking about which version they prefer roughly a year before the first vehicles will be delivered”.

The MEB-based siblings are almost identical in terms of exterior dimensions; with a length of 4 600 mm, the Sportback is some 10 mm longer than the standard model. They furthermore share drive technology: a pair of electric motors generating a total system output of 225 kW. The electric motor at the rear boasts peak outputs of 150 kW and 310 N.m, while the item on the front axle supplies its wheels with up to 75 kW and 150 N.m.

According to the German company, both versions will accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h in 6,3 seconds, with the top speed restricted to 180 km/h. An 82 kWh battery pack takes up “almost the entire space in the underbody area between the axles”, delivering a claimed range of “over 450 km” in all-paw models (and more than 500 km in the less-powerful, rear-driven versions).

Just like the standard body style, the Q4 E-tron Sportback features four seats, the brand’s virtual cockpit and a “large-format” head-up display with an augmented reality. In the centre of the facia, you’ll find a 12,3-inch touchscreen.

Audi says it plans to offer more than 20 electric models by 2025. In addition to its battery-powered crossovers, the firm says its electric portfolio will include “a range of models with classic body layouts, such as Avant and Sportback”.

Original article from Car