Fit for a prince: Audi RS e-tron GT

Affinity with fine cars, eco-consciousness, admiration for Audi all in Prince William’s blood.

The Earthshot Prize seeks solutions to environmental concerns, funding 50 winning projects around $70 million from 2021 until 2030. Presented by The Royal Foundation, it is spearheaded by Prince William, who cites his late grandfather Prince Philip and father King Charles III, both longtime environmentalists, as his influences in this eco-conscious initiative. 

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That Prince William drives a 100% electric Audi RS e-tron GT is not surprising, then.

Prince William was recently spotted behind the wheel of his RS e-tron GT as he visited his wife, Kate Middleton, who was admitted to The London Clinic. One of the first instances the royal couple was seen in the RS e-tron GT was in October 2021 when they arrived in style at the Earthshot Prize awards ceremony at London’s Alexandra Palace. Reports indicate the vehicle is part of the royal fleet, and that charging facilities have been installed at the Prince’s residences.

The Audi RS e-tron GT is powered by two electric motors producing 646 hp and 830 Nm sent to the quattro all-wheel drive system. An 800-volt architecture supports the powertrain and allows the car’s lithium-ion battery units to be charged quickly. Capable of traveling as much as 481 kilometers on a single charge (according to WLTP tests), the RS e-tron GT is exceptionally suitable for daily use and road trips, all while generating zero emissions.

Sustainably sourced materials are also a hallmark of the RS e-tron GT. The car offers carpet and floor mats in Econyl, which is made from excess nylon fibers, including those taken from discarded fishing nets. A leather-free design package is available, too. The seats are covered with either a combination of artificial leather and Kaskade textile, or a blend of artificial leather and Dinamica micro-fiber. Kaskade and Dinamica are made mainly from polyester sourced from upcycled PET bottles, textiles or fiber surplus.

Besides shared environmental causes, the British royal family has a longtime affinity with fine cars as well, owning an eclectic mix of traditionally British marques and contemporary brands. Counted among these are Audi models, like an 80 Cabriolet, A3, A5 Sportback, A6, A7, S3, RS5, RS6 and, of course, the RS e-tron GT.