Arguably the centre of attraction at the Frankfurt Show was the all-red Audi E-Tron concept based on the R8 sports car. The design and performance figures leave no doubt that it belongs to the top sports car league.
The lithium-ion battery unit, that provides a range of 248 kilometres, is positioned directly behind the passenger cabin for an optimal centre of gravity and axle load distribution. Four motors -- two each at the front and rear axles -- drive the wheels, producing a total of 230 kW/313 hp. The two-seater accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds, and from 60 to 120 km/h in 4.1 seconds.
The performance figures are by no means the only evidence of the consistent and holistic strategy. The design makes it clear that the e-tron belongs in the major leagues of sports cars, and the package takes into account the specific realities of an electric vehicle. The battery is directly behind the passenger cabin for an optimal center of gravity and axle load distribution.
There is still a lot of work to do before electric cars are ready for volume production, however. The greatest challenge is the integration of the energy storage system. Acceptable range and performance requires a traction battery that is heavy and takes up a lot of space. Audi is taking a new approach to offset these disadvantages - a holistic approach with a specific vehicle package, a systematic lightweight construction concept and an optimal configuration of all components for the electric drive.
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