Well, the short answer is ‘Yes’, but that doesn’t make for much of an explanatory article does it? Many drivers like the benefits of all-wheel-drive, especially if they live in areas where road conditions can get a bit sketchy. Sending power to all four wheels at once enhances grip when the going gets a bit rugged or slippery.
In the sense of how they handle the conditions 4x4 electric vehicles (EV) are little different from their fossil fuel counterparts. They have the same suspension characteristics and, of course, with an EV, 100% of the torque is available all the time. Today, most prestige EV’s will deliver in excess of 300 miles on a single charge and some go even further. See our post about long range electric vehicles here.
Certainly, folk who live right off the grid or work in remote areas may not have electric car charging facilities readily available but most motorists don’t experience conditions like that. We mostly like all-wheel-drive because it makes things safer, along with careful driving, when road conditions are difficult or if we need to get off the metalled roads for a family day out. To get the ball rolling, here’s three choice 4x4 examples of premium popular electric four-wheel drivers.
Mercedes Benz EQB 300 AMG Line
The famous German brand has been quick to pick up on the electric advance and they offer some fine, matured electric models, including this one with ‘4Matic’ drive. Technologically advanced and whisper quiet, this car makes perfect sense for those who need an up-to-seven seater car (rare in this class) for all practical purposes. Essentially, it’s a GLB model without the oily bits and that conventionality appeals to motorists who don’t like gimmickry.
Inside, the dashboard is by way of being a favourite among any contemporary Mercedes variants, blending style with usability to great effect. Two well sized display screens are backed up by actual, real buttons that don’t require scrolling to find some settings. The interior overall is clean, uncluttered and has a premium feel.
For a generously sized vehicle with four-wheel-drive, this fine SUV will still offer around 250 miles of charge-free motoring. Absolutely fine for a most purposes. It will charge at up to 100 kW, performance is sensible, and the boot (trunk), in 5-seat configuration will swallow 495 litres. The electric EQB is good to drive, handles well and offers a comfortable ride.
Audi Q8 e-tron 55 quattro
The e-tron range of cars is Audi’s first foray into the fully electric market and is an established and popular badge. Customers like SUVs, their physical size also making it easier to package the batteries, which in the ‘55’ version have more capacity and is probably the one to go for. The now legendary ‘quattro’ designation means that this car is capable in all seasons.
The 55 version has a 95 kWh battery, separate front and rear motors and a brilliant 150 kW DC charging capability (where available). Audi also insist that their regenerative braking system is second to none. This is a really good car to drive with excellent balance coupled with air suspension, plus, for economy’s sake, is predominantly rear-wheel drive until the front axle is needed. Expect the usual Audi premium quality and design; you won’t be disappointed.
Tesla Model X Long Range
Tesla is a name that is synonymous with electric cars. They were (some may argue that they still are), the leaders in electric automotive technology. The Model X takes the traditional Tesla look and supersizes it: It’s a big car with performance to match.
The X is an all-wheel-drive, up-to-seven-seat SUV with ample performance even at base level. The Long Range Plus model packs a big 100 kW battery pack which can achieve 250 miles or more in the real world. That’s quite an achievement in a big car. On the road the torques is effortless and there is plenty of space inside for all. Buyers can choose between 5, 6 or 7 seat layouts to suit needs and of course there is the bonus of wing-like ‘Falcon’ rear doors, rising up instead of out to provide great access to the rear rows; very useful when parking is tight.
As with all pure electric vehicles, there are no tailpipe emissions but additionally in this case there is also spirited performance, all-wheel-drive and access to the ever-growing dedicated Tesla ‘supercharger’ public charging facilities. It’s also possible, by using an adaptor, to charge at regular points as well.
Inside, there’s a sense of spaciousness and simplicity dominated by that massive screen. Select drive and off you go; it’s as simple as that. The car will unlock itself as the keyholder approaches and, as an option, the front doors will even open on command. Tesla were and are determined that their cars should be different and in that they have succeeded.
Overview
Despite early teething troubles and issues with range. EV’s are now coming of age. There exists a wide range of options for vehicles of all sizes, but it is the premium and luxury market that offers the best comfort and range. If all-wheel-drive isn’t needed then most models have single-motor two-wheel-drive as an alternative.
Best of all, by using MHH International’s comprehensive export service, buyers can import from the UK to other global destinations and it is a VAT-free service as well. Whether the need is for electric cars in their various configurations, or for regular internal combustion models, your first port of call has to be MHH. Get in touch for your next car.
