Learn more.
Alternating Current (AC):
A form of electrical power marked by a varying voltage and current. It reverses direction at a specific rate (in Canada at 60 times per second). AC power is the kind that is delivered from the grid, into homes, and ultimately made available at a domestic wall receptacle. The electric motors on the e-tron also use AC power in their operation.
Direct Current (DC):
A form of electrical power marked by a constant voltage and current. It flows in a constant direction. DC power is used by batteries to store energy and supply power to a suitable device. The e-tron uses sophisticated power electronics to convert electricity between AC and DC as needed by the motors and the battery at any given time.
Kilowatt (kW):
1000 Watts. A Watt is an international unit for measuring power. This can be the power that electric motors are capable of putting out, such as the 300 kW of available power in the e-tron (in boost mode). It can also refer to the power used to charge a battery, with higher numbers equating to faster charging rates. The e-tron supports up to 150 kW of charging power under the right conditions.