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The Complete Audi e-tron Charger Guide

Posted 06/26/2025

The Audi e-tron is one of the premier luxury SUVs in the competitive EV space. With cutting-edge features and a sleek design, it’s often grouped with other premium models like Tesla’s Model X, Mercedes-Benz’s EQC, and Jaguar’s I-Pace. In 2025, Audi offers several models in the e-tron line including: Audi Q4 e-tron Family, Audi Q6 e-tron Family, Audi A6 e-tron Family, Audi e-tron GT Family, and Audi Q5 PHEV.

However, even with a luxury EV like the Audi e-tron, charging as efficiently, conveniently, and affordably as possible still matters. In this handy guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Audi e-tron charger options, including best practices and estimated charging times and costs.

Audi Electric Charger Basics

The initial learning curve for EVs can feel overwhelming, especially with terms like kilowatts, AC vs. DC, and the different names and connector types being thrown around. Thankfully, charging an Audi e-tron is much more intuitive than you might think once you know the basics.

How does the Audi e-tron charge?

The Audi e-tron features a powerful battery, providing ample range for daily commutes and weekend getaways.

In Europe, the e-tron uses a Type 2 connector for AC (alternating current) charging. In North America, the e-tron uses a Type 1 J-1772 connector for AC Level 1 and 2 charging. For DC (direct current) fast charging, all models use the Combined Charging System (CCS) connector. The CCS connector adds two additional pins below the standard Type 1 or Type 2 connector to support DC charging. Learn more about EV charging plugs.

The Audi e-tron charging port is on the front left fender, where a fuel cap might be on a gas-powered car. Some e-tron models even have a second port on the passenger side for added flexibility when pulling into charging spots.

How quickly can an Audi e-tron charge?

Charging speeds vary between each e-tron model based on battery capacity and the onboard charger’s maximum capacity:

  • 2025 Audi Q4 e-tron: 77 kWh battery (net) and maximum charging capacity of 11.5 kW (AC) and 175 kW (DC)

  • 2025 Audi e-tron GT: 97 kWh battery (net) and maximum charging capacity of 9.6 kW (AC) and 320 kW (DC)

  • 2025 Audi Q6 e-tron: 94.4 kWh battery (net) and maximum charging capacity of 9.6 kW (AC) and 260 kW (DC)

  • 2025 Audi Q8 e-tron: 106 kWh battery (net) and maximum charging capacity up to 19.2 kW (AC) and 170 kW (DC)

  • 2025 Audi SQ8 e-tron: 106 kWh battery (net) and maximum charging capacity up to 19.2 kW (AC) and 170 kW (DC)

What does this mean for you? Each electric vehicle has a maximum rate at which it can accept power. For an e-tron with a maximum capacity of 9.6kW, the fastest it can charge at a Level 2 charging station is 9.6kW per hour (kWh), even if the charging station is rated at 19.2kW. If that same vehicle is plugged into an older charging station that can only deliver 7 kWh, the EV will be unable to charge faster than 7kWh. Plugging the 19.2 kW vehicle into a 19.2 kW charger will allow it to charge at full power – up to 19.2 kWh.

Similarly, an e-tron with a maximum DC fast charging capacity of 170 kW may only accept up to 170 kWh from a DC fast charger, even if the DCFC is rated for 240 kW.

In short, maximum charging speeds are dependent on your vehicle and the charging station itself. The best way to receive full charging capacity at an EV charging station is to plug into a station that matches or exceeds your vehicle’s maximum rate of charge.

Audi EV Charger Types

As an e-tron driver, you have several charger types to choose from, each offering different charging speeds to fit your needs and daily routine. While your dealership may have offered a residential charger at the point of purchase, many EV drivers use commercial chargers if they are unable to plug in at home.

Level 1 (120V) Charging

Every Audi e-tron typically comes with a basic charger that plugs into a regular household outlet. 110V charging is convenient in a pinch, but it’s undoubtedly your slowest charging option, adding only 3–5 miles of range per hour and requiring more than 3 days for a full charge. So, while it may be helpful in an emergency, it’s not practical for everyday driving and charging.

Blink Series 7 EV charging station with cable management in an outside parking lot

Level 2 (240V) Charging

Level 2 chargers are standard for daily use and require 208/240V input. Many home chargers deliver up to 12 kW at 50amp of electrical input. There is more variation for commercial Level 2 charging: you may see between 7 kW to 19.2 kW depending on the location. L2 chargers can typically charge your e-tron overnight or during the work day between 4-10 hours, depending on your initial charging level and charging station. Due to the electrical input requirements, most homes and businesses must hire an electrician to install 208/240V service in the garage or parking lot for EV charging.

Need an EV charger at your apartment or workplace? Blink can help!

DC Fast Charging (Level 3)

While quick, DC fast charging requires high amounts of electricity and is not intended for residential use. These chargers are typically found near highways, shopping centers, and other high-traffic areas, and are your go-to option for long-distance travel or when you need to recharge quickly.

As seen above, most e-tron models can charge at speeds of up to 170 kW, allowing you to go from roughly 10% to 80% charge in less than an hour depending on the charger. If driving a more powerful e-tron such as the 2025 e-tron GT, you may be able to charge up to 320 kWh at a compatible charging station!

How Long Does It Take to Charge an Audi e-tron?

While the estimated charge times above are accurate rules of thumb, different factors and real-world conditions can shift those numbers quite a bit:

  • Battery size: Because the Audi e-tron has a larger battery, charging from 10 to 80% takes longer than an EV with a smaller battery. Remember: the larger the battery, the longer it takes to charge.

  • State of charge: Charging slows down as your battery approaches 100%, so many DC fast charging sessions and vehicles are capped at 80%.

  • Ambient temperature: Cold weather can reduce charging speed, as the battery may need to warm up before charging begins. Extremely hot temperatures can also trigger thermal management, where charging slows to protect the battery.

  • Charger power: Not all chargers deliver power at the same rate. Depending on the charger, you might see anything from a few kW at home to 150 kW or more at public DC fast charging stations. Your e-tron will always charge at the maximum rate supported by both the charger and your vehicle’s onboard system.

Your e-tron’s onboard systems also influence charge speed. For example, if the charger’s output is lower than what your model can accept, charging will default to the lower rate.

“Why should I only charge my Audi e-tron to 80%?” Generally speaking, most manufacturers recommend keeping your EV between 20% and 80% charge at all times. This range allows you to extend your battery life and take advantage of regenerative braking features.

How Much Does It Cost to Charge an Audi e-tron?

Choosing an Audi e-tron over an internal combustion engine (ICE) car can undoubtedly save you money. Precisely how much depends on where and when you plug in.

In most cases, home charging is the most affordable option, costing approximately 16–17 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Meanwhile, public charging averages 20–25 cents per kWh for Level 2 charging, 40–60 cents per kWh for DC fast charging. Let’s calculate the cost of charging an e-tron with a 77 kWh battery from 10% to 80% (or from 7.7 kWh to 61.6 kWh, total of 53.9 kWh):

  • At home: 53.9 kWh × $0.16 = $8.62

  • Public Level 2: 53.9 kWh × $0.22 = $11.86

  • Public DC fast charger: 53.9 kWh × $0.50 = $26.95

*Estimates do not include tax or service fees.

Note that both utility and public rate prices can fluctuate significantly due to changes in demand, time-of-day pricing, and local energy market conditions. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the most up-to-date rates.

Some stations charge for time spent plugged into the charger, but due to differences in battery capacity, kWh pricing is recommended when businesses are selecting their preferred pricing. 

Tips to Reduce Charging Costs

Here are a few tips for reducing the cost of charging your Audi e-tron.

  • Charge at home whenever possible to take advantage of lower residential rates (and overnight charging convenience).

  • Charge during off-peak hours when utility rates are lower.

  • Use charging apps like PlugShare, ChargeHub, and Blink Charging to find charging stations – and pricing – near you.

Off-peak energy rates are usually between 11pm and 7am. Source: US Energy Information Administration
  • Take advantage of discounted charging through membership programs offered by charging networks like Blink.

  • Monitor your charging habits with smart tools like the Blink Charging app to track your spending and identify opportunities for savings.

  • Use free public charging where available. Workplaces, hotels, and shopping centers are just a few locations that sometimes offer free charging as an employee or customer perk.

Following these tips will help make every mile more efficient, resulting in maximum long-term savings.

Charging the Audi e-tron at Home

One of the biggest perks of driving an EV like the Audi e-tron is the ability to charge from the comfort of your own garage. In fact, 80% of all EV charging takes place at home. Here’s how residential and home charging work.

Audi Level 2 Charger Options for Home Charging

Every e-tron comes with a portable Audi electric charger unit that supports both 120V (Level 1) and 240V (Level 2) outlets. However, when plugged into a 240V outlet, this unit typically delivers up to 32 amps (about 7.7 kW), making it slower than most third-party wall-mounted Level 2 options, which have now standardized at 50 amps. For faster and more consistent daily charging, many e-tron drivers choose a wall-mounted Level 2 EVSE.

Installing an Audi e-tron charger at home usually involves plugging into a NEMA 14-50 outlet or opting for a hardwired connection. In either case, a professional electrician should handle installation to ensure safety and compliance with local electrical codes.

Audi Level 2 Charger Options for Apartments and Condos

Many Audi e-tron drivers live in a multifamily community such as an apartment or condominium. A growing number of multifamily communities are installing EV chargers as residential amenities for residents or guests. If your new apartment does not have EV charging stations for residents already installed, Blink can help.   

Installation and Incentives

Home owners may qualify for EV charging rebates or credits through federal tax programs, state-level EV incentives, or local utility companies. These savings can offset installation and equipment costs, sometimes significantly. Be sure to check available programs in your area before purchasing.

Commercial and Public Charging for Audi e-tron

Having a dedicated Audi e-tron charger at home will cover most of your day-to-day needs. But what if you can’t charge at home? Commercial EV charging supports Audi e-tron drivers while going to work or traveling.

Workplace Charging

Many businesses have added Level 2 EV charging as an employee amenity or fleet infrastructure. These workplaces may be private – restricted to employees – or public. If your office has EV chargers, we recommend asking your Human Resources or Facilities teams for access instructions. Some workplace chargers, such as the Blink Series 7, may be set up by property management to restrict access to approved users or give discounted charging to employees.

Finding and Using Public Chargers

Locating a compatible Audi EV charger is straightforward using in-car navigation, charging apps, or websites. The Blink Charging app lets you search by charger type, see live availability, and pay directly from your phone. We recommend downloading Blink Charging and PlugShare to help you find EV chargers nearby.

Most public stations support multiple payment methods, including mobile app, RFID card, or contactless tap-to-pay. Because not all EV chargers have a credit card reader, most public charging requires the use of a charging network app. Downloading the most popular charging apps before arriving at a parking lot or parking garage can help you start charging faster, without the friction of signing up for a membership while standing at a charging station.

Ask your Audi dealer about any included charging incentives. Some e-tron models come with complimentary public charging for a limited time through participating networks.

Audi DC Fast Charging on the Go

While public Level 2 chargers are great for daily errands, DC fast chargers are essential for long drives and road trips. Most e-tron models support DC fast charging up to 150 kW (SUVs), or up to 270 kW (GT models), allowing for an 80% charge in less than an hour.

Road Trip Charging Tips

  • Use route planning tools like those built into the Audi MMI or the Blink Charging app to find the fastest chargers from the road.

  • Precondition your battery before arriving at a DC fast charger to reduce charging time.

Choose charging stops near amenities like coffee shops, restaurants, or retail centers to make the most of your break.

Blink Powers Your Audi e-tron

No matter where your Audi e-tron takes you, Blink has you covered.

Ready to upgrade your charging setup or explore Blink’s public charging solutions? Explore our EV charger lineup today or contact Blink to find the right charger for your e-tron.

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