Report: Audi A8L Introduces Wireless Charging
The plug-in version of the A8L will be Audi’s first car to use wireless inductive charging instead of a power cord.
Owners and chauffeurs alike will be able to simply drive over a charging pad that automatically charges the A8L plug-in’s batteries.
The extra-cost option puts a coil under the A8L’s front axle. When the car drives over the charging plate, it rises up until it’s within a few fractions of an inch from the coil and starts charging the batteries, which are good enough to drive the car for about 30 miles on their own.
Now, if that sounds a little tricky, lining something under car up with something even more under the car, don’t worry because Audi has thought of that, too. When you’re ready to charge, the display screen helps you to find the charging plate.
SEE ALSO: Tech-Filled 2018 Audi A8 Debuts With Robust Self-Driving Suite
Together, the electric motor and 3.0-liter gasoline engine combine to produce 442 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, sending power to all four wheels.
Theoretically, the powertrain could be made available on the standard wheelbase A8, but a spokesperson told Digital Trends that its wider availability will depend on demand.
And given its self-parking capabilities, it doesn’t take much imagination to envision a future in which an electrified Audi will go find its own charging bay, that it could then vacate when charged.
Back here in the realm of reality, though, the plug-in A8 should hit showrooms next year.
A version of this story originally appeared on Fourtitude
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Sebastien is a roving reporter who covers Euros, domestics, and all things enthusiast. He has been writing about the automotive industry for four years and obsessed with it his whole life. He studied English at the Wilfrid Laurier University. Sebastien also edits for AutoGuide's sister sites VW Vortex, Fourtitude, Swedespeed, GM Inside News, All Ford Mustangs, and more.
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It may be Audi's first car with wireless charging, but my 2014 Jeep has it, and I don't know if that was their first year.
@Burtonz : I think you might want to go back and read the article again....