Materials from recycling processes and more give this Audi Q8 e-Tron good carbon credits
The Audi Q8 e-tron is certified as net-carbon-neutral for customers in Europe and the USA (also Malaysia).
If you are looking to get some ‘carbon neutral credits for your business, this is the executive transport you need. Let us explain.
Audi uses recycled materials for some components in the Audi Q8 e-tron (also with the RS e-tron GT). These materials, treated through a recycling process, reduce the amount of resources used and ensure a closed, efficient and sustainable material loop.
In the interior of the Audi Q8 e-tron, Audi uses recycled materials for insulation and damping, as well as for carpeting. The decorative inlay above the display, called the Tech Layer, is available with a new anthracite-colored technical material that’s partially composed of recycled PET bottles.
With the S line equipment package, the sport seats are upholstered in synthetic leather and the microfiber material Dinamica. Dinamica is made from up to 45 percent polyester fibers that are manufactured from recycled PET bottles, used textiles and fiber residue. In contrast to previous microfiber quality, the production of Dinamica is also solvent-free – another contribution to environmental protection.
Furthermore, some safety-related components that partially comprise mixed automotive plastic waste treated through a chemical recycling process are used for the first time – specifically, the plastic covers for the seatbelt buckles.
As part of the PlasticLoop project, Audi worked with the plastics manufacturer LyondellBasell to establish a process in which chemical recycling will be used for the first time to reuse mixed automotive plastic waste in the series production of the Audi Q8 e-tron.
In this process, jointly implemented with LyondellBasell, plastic components from customer vehicles that can no longer be repaired are dismantled and separated from foreign materials such as metal clips before being shredded and processed into pyrolysis oil through chemical recycling. This pyrolysis oil is then used as a raw material in the production of new plastics in a mass-balance approach.
Since its arrival in Malaysian showrooms, this all electric Q8 has had to compete with the BMW 1X and Mercedes-Benz EQ SUV’s which have established themselves a few years earlier.
So, being ‘late’ to the party left Audi in Malaysia to push their dealers aggressively to get EV consumers attention.
Meanwhile, there was competition from Lotus with the Eletre SUV that was priced from RM578k. Yes, the Lotus is much more expensive, but it carries the iconic ‘Lotus’ logo and heritage.
To start, this is a handsome looking SUV. Its muscular and proportioned right. Audi hardly ever disspaoints in this department and their designs are almost always evergreen (which means they do not fade way).
So, we get into this Q8 e-tron and like all new Audi’s it is very well built with a high quality look and feel. The cabin technology is easy to use and not layers with too many functions to confuse the first-timer.
Yes, Audi in car tech is simpler and easier to learn and navigate. Ignite the battery powered powertrain and you glide away in a well insulated cabin.
There is no hesitation from the electric motors and its momentum is quick, remember, this is large and heavy electric SUV with wide rubbers on large wheels.
This Audi Q8 e-tron is a top-of-the-line electric SUV that will impress with its possible driving range of up to 582 kilometers (in accordance with the WLTP).
