The Wolfsburg-based firm’s biggest sedan will use an evolution of the all-electric drivetrain inaugurated earlier this year at the Frankfurt Motor Show by Audi’s e-tron quattro concept. The setup will likely consist of a potent battery pack located right under the passenger compartment, an electric motor on the front axle, and two additional motors out back. All told, the Phaeton will offer roughly 425 horsepower and 600 lb-ft. of instant torque.
It stands to reason the Phaeton will benefit from the same wireless charging technology as the production version of the e-tron quattro concept. Range is expected to check it at over 300 miles, but the final figure will vary depending on how fast battery technology advances over the next couple of years.
The Phaeton will be available with all of the bells and whistles buyers expect from a full-size luxury sedan. Fully-loaded models will boast advanced connectivity features such as a gesture-controlled infotainment system, and a long list of electronic driving aids including self-driving technology.
Volkswagen executives confirmed to British magazine Autocar that the Phaeton has been delayed for cost reasons. The flagship sedan is tentatively scheduled to arrive towards the end of the decade, though a more specific launch date isn’t available yet. Similarly, it’s too early to tell if Volkswagen will offer the Phaeton with gasoline- and diesel-burning engines.
Note: Chinese-spec 2016 Phaeton pictured.
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