Just days ago, our latest Green Piece Column looked at some of the exciting green sports cars headed our way – and now there is a new name on the list in the form of an Audi electric sports car concept.
The vehicle was introduced at the North American International Auto Show, and is known as Audi e-tron. It is a two-seater that is 3.93metres long, 1.78metres wide and 1.22metres tall with a gross weight of around 2,976lbs. Two electric motors are included with a combined output of 150kW and 2,650Nm and the car can accelerate from 0-62mph in 5.9seconds with the top speed limited at 124mph.
The Audi e-tron’s lithium-ion battery pack is located for an optimal centre of gravity behind the passenger compartment and ahead of the rear axle, while the two motors themselves are mounted on the rear axle, each with their own cooling system. The vehicle has a potential operating range of up to 155miles.
Among the significant features of the Audi e-tron are the air intakes in the single frame grille and behind the side windows on the C-post. They are closed under normal circumstances and open by retracting slats when additional cooling is needed. The body structure is based on Audi Space Frame technology with all add-on parts, such as doors, lids, the roof and sidewalls, made of fibre-reinforced plastic.
The Audi e-tron also features a heat pump that uses mechanical work to provide heat with a minimum input of energy. A high efficiency climate control system is also used in the interior to further reduce fuel consumption.
