Complete Guide: How Electric Vehicles Work, Range, and Audi’s Approach

By Audi Lauzon
Published on 06/26/2024
Close-up front view of an Audi Q8 E-tron electric vehicle, ready to go

Have you ever considered switching to an electric car? You’re not alone. Broad environmental concerns, climate change, and consumer habits are gradually tipping the scales towards sustainable driving.

The automotive landscape is changing, and over the past decade, governments have made a green turn, evident even today through grant programs for purchasing or leasing an electric vehicle (EV).

As of December 31, 2023, there were 252,142 EVs in Quebec, while globally, the number reached 19 million. In Quebec alone, there were 10,525 charging stations.

It’s impossible to overlook the increasing prominence of electric cars in our landscape. However, questions likely arise about the electric range of these vehicles and the complexity of their engines.

Electric Vehicle Technology and Range

Before discussing Audi’s electric vehicle models, it’s essential to briefly touch on how electric car engines work.

How Electric Vehicle Engines Operate

Right off the bat, the electric car’s motors operate in diametrically opposed ways to those of the combustion engine.

To function, an electric motor must generate a reaction between an electromagnet and permanent magnets.

As long as the electricity source powers the electromagnet, the engine can provide the necessary power to rotate the wheels and adjust the car’s speed for impressive performance.

Side view of an electric Audi with charging station

The Range of Electric Cars

It’s well known that since their introduction to the market, the range of electric cars remains a significant challenge. Each year, new models debut with technologies that increase the maximum range measured in kilometers traveled.

How Range Works

The range of electric cars largely depends on the capacity of the lithium-ion batteries used by the vast majority of EVs to store energy. The larger the battery in terms of kWh, the higher its capacity, and consequently, the greater the range.

It’s fair to say that the range of electric cars varies from model to model, and nowadays extends from 300 to 600 km. It’s not unrealistic to expect new 100% electric models with even longer ranges in the near future.

What Impacts the Real Range of an EV?

Several factors can influence the performance of an electrified vehicle’s range.

These include the car model, driver behavior, type of journey, and, of course, weather conditions. A sporty driving style will consume more energy than a more conservative one. If you drive at high speed, you will use more electricity. This factor can affect the performance of the announced range on your vehicle. Urban driving with frequent stops and starts will also be a factor to consider for the real range of an EV. A difference as small as 10% in driving styles can vary a vehicle’s range!

Battery wear will also impact the vehicle’s range. After 5 years or 75,000 km, a drop in range of about 10 to 15% can be noted.

Finally, cold weather conditions can affect your range, especially if you use multiple devices simultaneously, such as heating.

However, while several factors can reduce your car’s range, others can help optimize it. And choosing the right technology is the best way to start!

Front 3/4 view of the audi Q8 Sportback e-tron electric vehicle with charging station

Audi Technologies for Electric Cars

Over time, Audi has become a leader in the electrification of its vehicles. Let’s take a closer look at what sets Audi electric cars apart from their competitors.

Travel Long Distances with Audi’s Range

The German manufacturer continues to innovate and develop technologies to increase the range of its luxury vehicles.

All Audi e-tron vehicles (the name is set to change with Audi’s new electric vehicle nomenclature, even numbers for electric cars and odd numbers for combustion engine vehicles) are equipped with next-generation batteries that provide an extended range.

For example, the 2025 Audi A4 electric luxury vehicle can travel up to 600 km before needing a recharge, while the range of the Audi A6 e-tron electric car is 700 km on a single charge.

Additionally, Electrify Canada offers an ultra-fast and convenient charging network in Canada. This organization is building a direct current (DC) charging infrastructure for electric vehicles. With a simple app, find a public charging station and plan your routes.

Save your range thanks to features and tips from Aud

Due to their aerodynamic design, Audi’s high-performance electric cars allow you to save precious kilometers. How?

The e-tron vehicles are equipped with an energy recuperator. With electro-hydraulic braking and e-pedal mode, the range of your Audi sedan or SUV regenerates with each braking, allowing you to travel more kilometers.

Here are some additional tips for saving even more range:

  • Plan an early start with the myAudi app
  • In cold weather, don’t forget to preheat the cabin. You could save up to 100 km
  • Prefer a Level 2 (residential) charging station
  • When stationary, your battery charge should be between 30 and 80% to enhance its lifespan
  • Plan your routes with predefined stops to maximize the proper use of the battery

Electric Motors: How Does Audi Stand Out?

Over the years, the German manufacturer has continuously innovated to make its electric vehicles high-performing with an extended range. Whether talking about the Audi e-tron GT, the Audi Q4 e-tron, or the Audi Q8 e-tron electric SUV (link to be added at integration), innovations in the deployment of smart software or technological advances are plentiful. For example, the 2025 Audi A4 will be more efficient, with a maximum range of 600 km.

Audi’s upcoming electric models are sure to amaze and delight enthusiasts of performance and range. Audi Canada is making numerous announcements in this regard.

View of an electric Audi on the road at full power

Enjoy Remote Control with Audi Connect

Audi Connect provides a constant connection between the driver, their vehicle, and the surrounding world. It’s also a very practical tool for all Audi electric cars.

With the new e-tron route planner on the myAudi app, Audi Connect helps you plan your journey and accompanies you throughout the trip. Especially relevant for an electric vehicle, planning also integrates the latest information on charging stations along the route.

From your smartphone, enjoy innovative features and services from Audi Connect, including knowing your battery’s charge level in real-time.

In conclusion, we hope this guide has enlightened you on electric motorization and range. It demonstrates the brand’s excellence in innovation. The current e-tron models are just the beginning of an electrifying journey.

Come discover all the Audi electric models at your dealership in Laval, near Montreal, Audi Lauzon. A passionate team will introduce you to sustainable driving!

Rear view of an Audi electric e-tron 2024 with charging station

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