Audi has just announced that will it be improving its e-tron line of electric cars for the new year. They will feature a new driver-friendly steering wheel and there will be an option of swapping to larger diameter wheels, but more importantly, there will be the addition of AC charging and a new intelligent home connector.
Along with direct current (DC) charging found on the e-tron models, they will now feature AC charging that will double the capacity and enable faster charging. The e-tron 552 and e-tron Sportback 553 will now be available with a second onboard charger that doubles the power from 11 kW to as much as 22 kW at appropriate charging terminals.
This option will follow for the e-tron 504 and e-tron S models in mid-2021. The standard mode-three cable that e-tron owners can use at public terminals has already been converted to a charging capacity of 22 kW.
The new charging system connector that Audi offers for home use is also designed for a charging capacity of up to 22 kW. It is designed for use at household outlets and can therefore be used when away from home. Using a suitable domestic installation the e-tron 552 models can be fully charged in just under five hours.
The new connector also features a five-inch touch display and a wall mount. Its Wi-Fi internet connection enables control via the myAudi app and function updates. Audi recommends a three-phase, 400-volt outlet for optimal use of the charging system connect
In conjunction with a compatible home energy management system from SMA Solar Technology or the Hager Group, the e-tron charging system connect offers additional, intelligent functions. For example, the Audi e-tron can take account of the needs of other consumers in the household and charge with the remaining power available to avoid overloading the home electrical system.
The charging system also allows customers to define individual priorities, such as charging when electricity is less expensive under a variable electricity rate. If the home is equipped with a photovoltaic system, the car can be charged preferentially using the electricity generated by the system. Charging planning then considers forecast periods of sunshine. Additional features of the e-tron charging system connect include PIN protection against unauthorised use and the recording of charging energy.
