Audi is offering a free software update for selected e-tron electric models, boosting range.

The efficiency update delivers up to 12.4 miles (20km) of extra range for e-tron 55 quattro vehicles

The efficiency update delivers up to 12.4 miles (20km) of extra range and is available for e-tron 55 quattro vehicles built between mid-September 2018 (model year 2019) and the end of November 2019 (model year 2020).

It’s is available for 34,000 compatible models, including 1,655 in the UK, and can be installed free of charge at dealers, including a complimentary health check.

The enhancement is done by expanding the usable capacity of the 95kWh battery to 86kWh, thereby enhancing range.

To further enhance efficiency and control, the front electric motor is now powered off during normal driving mode and only pressed into action when more power is needed. This leaves the rear motor responsible for driving the car, ensuring current-less operation without electrical drag losses.

The update also improves cooling, modifying the control system and thereby reducing energy consumption. The cooling system is the basis for fast DC charging, long battery life and consistent driving performance, even under high loads.

“At Audi, we deliver progress through technology – and there’s no clearer demonstration of that than the free software and range update we’ve just launched for our existing e-tron 55 quattro customers,” commented Andrew Doyle, director Audi UK. “As we shift our focus to the world of electric vehicles, we’re channelling our pioneering spirit and world-renowned technological expertise into the reinvention of our company as a leading light in the field of sustainable mobility.”

The update comes as Audi reports significant growth in deliveries of its all-electric models, By the end of September, the badge had supplied 52,774 all-electric vehicles to customers globally, up 51.4% on the 34,850 sold in the same period in 2020. From 2026, its new models will be all-electric and, in 2033, production of the last models with internal combustion engines will end.

The brand has also set itself the target of a 30% reduction in vehicle-specific CO2 emissions throughout the product lifecycle by 2025, alongside operation of all Audi production sites with net zero carbon emissions. Full company-wide carbon neutrality is planned by 2050 latest.