| Make
|
Audi
|
| Model |
e-Tron
|
| Concept
year |
2009 |
| Production
year |
- |
| Engine |
electric |
The Audi e-Tron was a long-speculated, electric powered
supercar concept which was unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt
Motor Show.
The e-Tron's R8 influenced styling is clearly visible,
but obvious too is the myriad of differences and modifications
required to accommodate the electric drivetrain.
Most noticeable are the new 'C' shaped LED headlights,
redesigned lateral air intakes which lack the distinctive
'sideblades' of the standard R8, and the new rear window
panel which features a morphing panel for regulating airflow
to cool the batteries and motors. Rear-view cameras are
used instead of side mirrors.
Technology
The technology used throughout the Audi e-Tron is truly
spectacular. The headlights for example are computer controlled
and react to different situations. The new technology
recognizes weather conditions and adapts the illumination
to rain or fog. The technology at the heart of the light
assistance system is a camera that works together with
a fast computer to detect oncoming traffic, recognize
lanes and measure visibilities, such as in the event of
fog.
A new design element unique to the Audi e-tron are the
air intakes in the single-frame grille and in front of
the rear wheel wells. They are closed flush under normal
circumstances and opened by means of flaps when additional
cooling air is required. Maximum efficiency is also the
reason behind this measure. The concept car has a remarkably
low drag coefficient, which gets even better when the
flaps are closed.
Lightweight construction is an even more important requirement
for efficiency and range with electric vehicles than for
conventionally powered automobiles. The body structure
of the e-Tron is based on Audi Space Frame (ASF) technology
and was realized as a hybrid construction. All add-on
parts – doors, covers, sidewalls and roof –
are made of a fiber-reinforced plastic.
Interior
Inside the Audi R8 e-Tron things are very different to
the car on which it is based. The dash is very minimalist,
with only a couple of dials, and a video display for the
driver mounted behind the steering wheel. The high floating
centre console is sleek and futuristic and features a
flush gear selector, with which the driver chooses between
the modes forward, reverse and neutral gears.
While an analog speedometer on the right provides speed
information, the instrument on the left tells the driver
how much power is being drawn. The central display shows
the range in the status bar and presents all key information
from the infotainment and navigation systems. It also
provides the driver with relevant data from the vehicle's
communication with its surroundings.
The racing-inspired lightweight bucket seats combine excellent
lateral support with comfort. The contrasting colors –
snow white and cognac – define the various elements
of the interior.
Drivetrain
Powering the Audi e-Tron is a fully electric drivetrain
which features four motors – two each at the front
and rear axles, making the e-Tron concept a true quattro.
Combined the four motors produce 313 hp (230 kW) and 4,500
Nm (3,319.03 lb-ft) of torque. This enables the e-Tron
to bolt to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 4.8 seconds, the
top speed is limited to 124 mph (200 km/h). On a full
charge the range for the e-Tron is estimated at 154 miles.
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