Audi A3 e-tron Concept Unveiled in Geneva
Audi has seen the range of BMW electric i cars and countered with the Audi A3 e-tron concept. Officially revealed at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, the e-tron concept is positioned to offer a hybrid powertrain at a price that will rival diesel, natural gas, petrol and gasoline offerings. But is it just another tease?
The Audi A3 e-tron concept is burning it up in red
Audi has tempted before with electric versions of the R8 and A1, only to announce that there were no intentions to actually produce them. The Audi A3 e-tron seems to be further down the production tube, however, and the green model may even get the green light. The brand is describing the e-tron as a “Realistic glimpse into the future.”
The Audi A3 e-tron concept at a glance:
- VW Group 1.4-liter direct-injection petrol engine
- 148bhp
- Electric motor mounted up front
- 6-speed dual clutch gearbox with 101bhp
- Combined output of 201bhp and 258 lb-ft of delicious torque
The Audi A3 e-tron bests the new A3 1.8 TFSI’s by 24bhp and 74 lb-ft
There are three different drive modes for the Audi A3 e-tron: Petrol only, electric only and hybrid. Hybrid mode uses the power from both motors for max aggression, pushing it from 0-60 in 7.6 seconds with a top speed of 138 miles per hour. While this does not compare in the least to a supercar’s sprint of about 3 seconds or less, it is not bad for a hybrid. In electric only mode it can hit 81 miles per hour with a range of just 31 miles. CO2 emissions are estimated at just 35g/km, making it a green wonder.
