Audi Q8 E-Tron ‘Edition Dakar’ Unveiled With Surged Ground Clearance; Mated with All Terrain Tyres

News Highlights

• The Q8 e-tron 55 powertrain forms the basis of the Dakar edition.
• Customers can choose a decal package modeled after the RS Q e-Tron.
• Receives all-terrain tires as standard.

Soon before the 2024 Dakar Rally in Saudi Arabia gets underway, Audi has unveiled the Q8 E-Tron edition Dakar. Unlike the rally-specific RS Q E-Tron racing prototype, the Q8 E-Tron edition Dakar is a retail vehicle with a special livery honoring the Audi RS Q e-Tron Dakar racer. Nevertheless, only 99 units of this livery version will be available.

This special edition features optional Dakar Rally prototype-inspired decals and increased ground clearance. The Q8 E-tron edition Dakar is also available in Siam Beige Metallic, Mythos Black Metallic, and Magnetic Grey as additional colors.

The drivetrain of the Dakar edition is the same as that of the Q8 E-tron 55. It has a 114 kWh (106 kWh usable) battery pack and a twin electric motor that powers all four wheels, according to this description. It has a maximum torque of 664 Nm and 402 bhp when operating in boost mode. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in 5.8 seconds. A WLTP range of up to 487 kilometers is also provided.

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This special edition model has wider wheel arch extensions and an upgraded air suspension that raises the ride height by 65 mm. It has better ground clearance and can handle rough terrain. A 40 kg capacity roof rack, a storage and luggage compartment, and General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tires for off-road durability are also included in the standard package (purchasers will also receive a set of standard summer tires). Additionally, the company offers an assortment of eight tires for the Q8 E-Tron edition Dakar to enhance traction on a variety of terrains, such as snow, stony terrain, mountain and forest paths, and gravel.

The Q8 E-Tron edition Dakar has a head-up display and a central touchscreen that shows the tilt angles that have been achieved. Moreover, the words "edition Dakar" are projected onto the ground when the front doors are opened. In addition, the red Audi Sport stitching package is an optional feature that adds colored stitching to the door armrests, steering wheel, and sports seats for a striking contrast.

Customers who want even more customization can choose an RS Q E-Tron-inspired decal package, which highlights the Mythos Black metallic body with clear transparencies. Additionally, an ambient light package with up to 30 colors is an option. Matrix LED headlights, tinted sun visors, and a high-end S-line interior with molded sports seats and brushed matte aluminum inlays are all included as standard features.