Audi launches electric SUV in Tesla's backyard, with assist from Amazon

Audi unveils its first production all-electric vehicle, the e-tron sport utility vehicle at an event in Richmond, California, U.S. September 17, 2018. REUTERS/Joe White

SAN FRANCISCO: German luxury car brand Audi on Sept 17 staged the global launch of a new electric sport utility vehicle on the home turf of rival Tesla Inc, and highlighted a deal with Amazon.com Inc to make recharging its forthcoming e-tron models easier.

The Audi e-tron midsize SUV will be offered in the United States next year at a starting price of US$75,795 (RM314,132) before a US$7,500 (RM31,083) tax credit. It is one of a volley of electric vehicles coming from Volkswagen AG brands, as well as other European premium brands including Daimler-owned Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volvo Cars and Jaguar Land Rover.