Audi dealers can now take orders for its new e-tron EV, the brand's first fully-electric rival to the Jaguar I-Pace and upcoming Mercedes-Benz EQC.

With the £3,500 plug-in grant, the five seat SUV costs from £67,990.

First deliveries are expected in April and Audi says it expects availability to be in-line with rivals.

The e-tron has a maximum (WLTP) range of 241 miles and can recharge to 80% capacity in 30 minutes, using a 150Kw fast charger.

There are charging ports on both front wings to provide maximum convenience.

It uses a 95kWh battery and two electric motors, providing all-wheel-drive and acceleration from 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds.

The interior features the same twin-screen setup that debuted in the new A8, reducing the number of physical buttons.

The Audi Smartphone Interface, Audi Phonebox wireless charging, MMI navigation plus and internet-based Audi connect infotainment services are included, as are assistance systems including the Audi Parking System Plus with 360-degree display and rear-view camera and Lane Departure Warning.

Air suspension is also fitted as standard, along with 20-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights.

Launch Edition cars cost from £82,240 (ex grant) and are fitted with 21-inch alloy wheels and intelligent Matrix LED headlamps.

The e-tron’s conventional door mirrors also make way in the Launch Edition for camera-based units that transmit images of the driving environment to two OLED interior displays.

The first 30 e-trons – in Edition 1 spec - have already been reserved by prospective buyers, who placed an early deposit under the Audi UK deposit scheme.