EMOTIONALLY charged design and lightning fast response, with 0-62mph acceleration in as little as 3.3 seconds – the new Audi e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT are about to conduct electricity in an exciting new direction for the Vorsprung durch Technik brand.

Launching simultaneously this spring, the new GT sports cars combine breathtaking and instantly accessible accelerative force and zero emissions with compellingly incisive handling, exceptional cruising comfort and ultra-sophisticated infotainment and driver assistance technology.

Inside, the driver and front passenger sit low in the cockpit separated by a wide centre console which houses the gear selector switch, its compact design emphasising the sense of space and providing a highly precise control experience. In the e-tron GT quattro they are gripped by sport seats with integrated head restraints and electric eight-way adjustment, upholstered in a combination of leather and synthetic leather.

Travellers in the e-tron GT Vorsprung and RS e-tron GT models enjoy an upgrade to Front Sport Seats Pro with 18-way adjustment, ventilation and massage capability and full perforated fine Nappa leather upholstery.

The rear seats offer sufficient space even for adults, who are able to sit lower and position their feet in what is known as a ‘foot garage’ thanks to a recess incorporated in the design of the battery pack running beneath the passenger compartment which effectively compensates for the tapering roof line.

The fully electric gran turismo from Audi promises exhilaration regardless of version: The e-tron GT accelerates from rest to 62mph in 4.1 seconds, while the RS model needs 3.3 seconds (in boost mode in each case). Top speeds are governed at 152mph and 155mph respectively.

To further enrich the driving experience, a unique ‘soundscape’ is also available for all e-tron GT models.

The e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT usually travel with electric all-wheel drive engaged, except when “efficiency” mode is activated via the Audi drive select dynamic handling system, in which case front-wheel-drive is prioritised. On slippery road surfaces, or when high power requirements or fast cornering demand it, the electric motor for rear-wheel drive is also activated in this mode around five times faster than with a mechanical quattro drivetrain.

The e-tron GT can charge with up to 11 kW AC as standard, meaning an empty battery can be replenished overnight.

At a sufficiently powerful DC terminal, the electric coupé can achieve a peak charging capacity of up to 270 kW, allowing it to take on board enough charge for a journey of up to 62 miles in just over five minutes. Charging from 5 to 80 percent SoC (state of charge) takes less than 23 minutes in ideal conditions.

Now the bad news: Prices for the new model start from £79,900 on-the-road for the e-tron GT Quattro and £110,950 for the RS e-tron GT.