Yahoo Autos The story behind Audi e-tron
The Audi e-tron is a bold opening statement for Audi's vision of an all-electric future
Ever since Audi introduced its ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ tagline in 1971, the idea of ‘progress through technology’ has underpinned every element of Audi’s design and engineering – from turbocharged quattro performance, through milestone leaps in fuel efficiency, to advanced technology that has made driving easier and safer.
Audi’s all-electric e-tron models are the boldest evolution of that philosophy to date, offering no-compromise zero-emissions electric driving with all of the thrilling driving experience, cosseting comfort and versatile dependability you expect from an Audi. ‘Vorsprung durch Technik. Now electric’, if you will.
As part of its goal of being a net-zero carbon neutral company by 2050, Audi plans to introduce 30 electrified models to its range over the next five years – roughly 40% of the line-up of cars it sells. This includes 20 all-new all-electric e-tron models that will cover everything from family-friendly SUVs to thrilling performance cars.
But, in order to truly understand the potential for Audi’s long-term e-tron vision, we first need to take a brief step into its past.
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The evolution of e-tron
The e-tron concept at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show offered the first glimpse of Audi’s intent. The Audi R8-inspired design boasted 154 miles of electric range, but some questioned whether electric would ever deliver sports car thrills. With 309bhp and an astonishing 3319 lb-ft of torque transmitted through all-electric quattro all-wheel drive, the e-tron concept had the answer: 0-62mph in just 4.8 seconds.
At the same time, Audi started honing its e-tron knowledge on the track. Ever since Audi dominated rallying in the 1980s with quattro all-wheel drive, motorsport has been a key part of its Vorsprung durch Technik ethos. The crucible of the race track has always been the perfect fast-paced proving ground for rapidly improving road car technology through the white-hot heat of competition, and the idea of ‘racing improving the breed’ seemed the perfect match for e-tron.
Audi’s R18 e-tron quattro prototype became the first electric-hybrid to win the gruelling Le Mans 24 Hours with a hat-trick of victories in 2012, 2013 and 2014, while Audi’s title-winning campaigns in the all-electric FIA Formula E single-seater series have helped its engineers develop ever-more efficient electric powertrains that charge and deploy energy faster, while also being lighter and smaller.
The unveiling of the limited-run R8 e-tron at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show showed how electrifying Audi’s progress had been in just six years. With 456hp and 678 lb-ft, it could reach 62mph in just 3.9 seconds. Even better, the high-capacity 92kWh battery – more energy efficient and more smartly packaged, thanks to fast-moving developments in electric powertrain technology – offered up to 280 miles of range.
The big news though, was the reveal of the Audi e-tron quattro SUV concept which gave the first taste of Audi’s first full production all-electric model – a model which was already well under development.
Changing the face of Audi e-design
Audi has never been held back by something as quaint as convention, and the switch to electric powertrains has let Audi rethink how its e-tron models are designed and engineered. No longer are physics and form defined by an engine up front. Instead, low-slung batteries and compact motors have lowered the centre of gravity opened up interior space, while aerodynamics have subtly altered how e-tron models are shaped, without losing Audi’s distinctively familiar design language.
“There’s never been a more exciting time to be a designer, taking car design into the future,” says Audi Head of Design Marc Lichte. “Progress is an important part of Audi’s DNA. Our designs must radiate a presence: ‘Here comes an Audi’. But, of course, an electric car must also clearly say: ‘Here comes the future’.”
“The battery between the axles lets us create proportions we’ve long dreamed of. Huge wheelbase, small overhangs: completely new proportions defining the unique character of electric vehicles. The heart of the vehicle is no longer the engine, but the battery in the floor. So, the Audi Q4 e-tron concept has an expressive sill that clearly signals the location of the car’s beating heart. The front hood also has more sedate design. Power domes are a thing of the past.
“Aerodynamics increase range, so the e-tron has a streamlined droplet shape with a fast, sleek roof. The underbody features streamlined panelling, flowing into the rear diffuser. Even the wheels have aerodynamic trims, yet still resemble a sporty wheel with spokes. Intakes channel air to the battery to cool it down, which helps it charge more quickly. Last, but not least, our virtual exterior mirrors contribute to the low air resistance – and make Audi’s ‘Vorsprung’ visible.”
Even the paint on an Audi e-tron has been re-thought to have new purpose – reflecting more sunlight and heat than on previous Audi models to reduce the load on the interior air-conditioning and preserving battery power for increased range.
