Audie E-Tron – A Review (2011)
The Australian International Motor Show 2011 in Melbourne heralded the much anticipated unveiling of the Audi E-Tron concept car.
Marketed as the future of electro-mobility this all electric concept with its stunning “Samoa Orange” paintwork and contrasting white interior offers a 230 kw power base via four motors, a 4.8 second 0 to 100 km/hour dash and a 248 kilometre range courtesy of a lithium-ion battery.
While still a concept car the E-Tron will make it to the showroom floor, in 2012, as the platform for the upcoming R8 E-Tron.
Electric cars are the sign of the future, and Audi as with most other major manufacturers are embracing the technology and the E-tron is but just one example of this.
The overall appearance of the E-Tron can best be described as super car, with its wide sporty stance, aggressive front grill and 19 inch wheels. However, when buying a super car you expect performance and while the 0 to 100 figure is super car fast the top speed of 200 kilometres per hour shatters the dream. The speed is limited due to the energy required to drive the engines which increases disproportionately to speed.
Charging of the energy storage unit is with household current via a socket located at the rear of the car and to completely charge a depleted battery takes some 6 to 8 hours. However, if you have access to high voltage the charge time is reduced to around 2.5 hours. Charging of the battery can also be achieved while driving as the alternator converts the kinetic energy associated with braking into electrical energy. Driving experience is paramount and to maximise this the Audi E-tron has been designed with a 48:52 weight distribution with the bias towards the rear axle and with power distributed 70% to the rear and 30% to the front, enabling the Audi E-Tron to enjoy the benefits of quattro technology.
While only a concept the Audi E-Tron allows us all the opportunity to dream of what the future holds.
For further photographs see our Facebook Page at Audi E-Tron For further information: www.audi.com.au
Category: Concept Cars
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