Audi is gearing up to release updated vehicle software for the Q4 E-Tron and Q4 Sportback E-Tron that will add convenience and functionality to the ownership experience. The most important feature of what’s coming might be the OTA capability for future updates. Moving from the current v2.3 software to v3.2 will require a trip to the dealer, but Audi says over-the-air updates will be standard later. The next most convenient feature would be plug and charge. After owners set up a payment account with Audi, all they need to do is plug in the vehicle at a compatible charging station, after which charging and billing are handled automatically. Refinements in charging methods include optional charge time settings. Owners can use the app to create charging windows to take advantage of lower energy rates — a feature EV owners have been vocal about recently. The maximum charging capacity for each rises to 135 kW after Audi enabled a higher cap for European owners last March. There will also be an option to keep the battery up to 80% charge, for those who want to stretch battery life. To make the best use of the external energy source, the new software accounts for more factors such as ambient temperature and state of charge while dialing in the battery’s thermal management system. It also uses plug-in power to heat the interior if the owner sets a departure timer during preconditioning. Driving enhancements are clustered around the infotainment system, with the ability to save navigation data such as recent locations, send routes created in the MyAudi app to the vehicle, create personal profiles, locate parked vehicles and check vehicle status remotely. Finally, with the ability to create multiple user profiles, the MyAudi app will offer more internal customization options for details such as ambient lighting and background images displayed on the MMI screen. The 2023 Q4 E-Tron comes with v3.2 installed from the factory. Every E-Tron built before the 2023 model year will be able to upgrade. To prevent inordinate wait times at storefronts, Audi says it will notify owners in waves about when to schedule an appointment.
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