Audi keeps on delivering and delivering. And just when you thought they have given the best they can give they pull yet another rabbit out of the hat. The ‘rabbit’ in this particular case is the Audi Q4 e-Tron a full concept EV. Make no mistake for it is, by definition, a concept. Every Audi concept deserves attention. But we’re going to be brief today. The future off-spring retail version of the Q4 e-Tron will be built on a modular electrification platform (MEB), which will provide the foundations for numerous electric vehicles from the compact class upwards in the future.

And that future looks remarkably familiar as it does futuristic. In true Bauhaus minimalism, the Q4 e-Tron looks space age and contemporary. For example, the prominent wings are another classic Audi design. In fact almost exactly forty years since the arrival of the legendary original Quattro in 1980. Large 22-inch wheels also emphasise the sinewy stance of the newest member of the Audi family.

The Q brand of Audi’s denotes pure electric vehicles. Ergo, the Q4 e-Tron is powered by a large 82 kWh battery. Two electric motors provide a total system power of 225 kW via Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive. Audi claims the zero to 62mph is acquired in 6.3 seconds, the top speed is restricted to 111mph.

Range is estimated to return 279 miles with versions fitted with 4-wheel-drive. Versions with rear-wheel drive will push on even further, covering a range of up to 310 miles based on WLTP test data. In most cases, the Q4 Sportback e-Tron concept mainly uses its rear electric motor, a permanently synchronous unit, in order to achieve the highest efficiency.

The electric motor on the rear axle has an output of 150 kW and delivers peak torque of 310 Nm (228.6 lb-ft); the front unit supplies the front wheels with up to 75 kW and 150 Nm (110.6 lb-ft). The system output is 225 kW. The battery on the vehicle floor has a maximum charging capacity of 125 kilowatts. Rapid charging allows a charging time from zero to 80 percent in around 30 minutes.

The Q4 e-Tron concept, in retail trim, will arrive in 2021. Pricing and specification will be revealed closer to launch. Audi is planning to increase its range of pure electric cars which is expected to grow to 20 in total by 2025.