New Audi SQ7 TDI revealed

By Deepankar Sadekar • 9 years ago • News

Audi has revealed the new SQ7 TDI SUV. This is the first S model in the Q7 lineup. In a world first, it is also the first production car to come with an electric powered compressor for better engine performance.

The SQ7 TDI features an all new 4.0 litre twin turbo V8 diesel engine that has been developed ground up by Audi. It develops 435 horsepower and 900 Nm of maximum torque that comes up between 1,000 and 3,250 rpm. It goes from 0 to 100 kph in 4.8 seconds with a top speed of 250 kph (limited). The engine is mated to a redesigned eight speed tip tronic gearbox. The quattro all wheel drive system all gets a self-locking centre differential.

The electric powered compressor strongly supports the 4.0 TDI engine when starting off and accelerating from low load for pure dynamics with no turbo lag. It is placed in the air path downstream of the intercooler, close to the engine. Because the EPC does not require any exhaust-gas energy to develop boost, it can be used at any time, thus making it the solution for the traditional weaknesses of the classic exhaust-gas turbocharger. With this technology, turbo lag is history. The EPC provides the engine the boost energy needed for the dynamic delivery of power in less than 250 milliseconds. Driven by a compact electric motor, its compressor wheel spins up to 70,000 revolutions per minute. The 4.0 TDI thus develops its immense power with no perceptible lag: It is available immediately upon depressing the accelerator. That is a major plus, particularly when starting off. The power for the EPC, which reaches a maximum of 7 kW, is provided by the 48‑volt electrical subsystem. The SQ7 TDI uses this higher-power electrical system, which facilitates the high-power systems electromechanical active roll stabilization (EAWS) and EPC. To meet their high power and energy requirements, the electrical subsystem includes its own 48‑volt lithium-ion battery mounted beneath the luggage compartment with a nominal energy content of 470 watt-hours and peak output of up to 13 kilowatts. A DC/DC converter connects the 48‑volt and 12‑volt electrical systems. The required energy is provided by a more powerful and highly efficient generator with an efficiency of over 80 percent at an output of up to 3 kW. This is a so-called MOSFET generator (Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor), which reduces electric losses and increases efficiency. MOFSETs replace the diodes used previously. In addition, the 48‑volt storage unit supports the 12‑volt electrical system when required. This also reduces the load on the 12‑volt lead battery. The Audi valvelift system (AVS) is also making its debut in a diesel model from Audi. The inlet and exhaust cam shafts each have two cam contours per valve. On the inlet side, one cam contour supports starting off in conjunction with the EPC, while the other optimizes cylinder filling and thus power at high engine speeds. The AVS system on the exhaust side enables activation of the second exhaust-gas turbocharger. The sequential charging system controls the two exhaust-gas turbochargers so that only one turbocharger is used at low engine speeds. The second is activated additionally at higher loads and engine speeds.

On the exterior, the SQ7 gets LED Matrix headlamps, singleframe radiator grille, S-spec front and rear bumpers, side air inlets, mirror housings and door inlays in aluminum and quad exhaust pipes at the rear.

The interior comes with Audi’s virtual cockpit, sports seats or sports seats plus, powered tailgate, LEd interior lighting, touch MMI infotainment system with navigation. Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System with 23 speakers and 1920 Watt output. The Bose Surround Sound system with 19 speakers also features two speakers located higher up in the A‑pillars to produce the third dimension. Other features of the Audi SQ7 TDI include Audi Dynamic Drive Select, S-specific adaptive air suspension and 20 inch alloy wheels standard with the option to upgrade to 22 inchers. Carbon ceramic brake disks will be offered as an option post launch. Audi also offers an optional driving dynamics package comprising three technology modules: sport differential, electromechanical active roll stabilization and all-wheel steering.