Providing a rival to models including the BMX X6 and Range Rover, Audi’s flagship Q8 SUV was revealed in near-production concept form at Detroit.

The lithium-ion battery is located in the rear and enables an electric range of 60km.

Due for launch next year, the Q8 sits on the same platform as the A7 and according to the brand brings the “typical spaciousness of an SUV with the elegance of a coupé”.

The concept uses a plug-in hybrid combining a 333hp 3.0 TFSI with a 100kw electric motor married up with an eight-speed tiptronic gearbox and Quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. Total power is 330kw and the concept accelerates from 0 to 100kph in 5.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 155mph.

A lithium-ion battery is located in the rear and enables an electric range of 60km. Total range is claimed to be up to 1000km. A full charge with 7.2 kW output takes about two and a half hours. Official economy under the NEDC cycle is 2.3l/100km with CO2 emissions of 53g/km.

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