It’s rumored that Audi’s e-Tron will eventually be released as the Audi R4 e-Tron. This all-electric sports coupe for two has changed its specifications since the concept we saw in L.A. and Frankfurt last year. This new e-Tron is said to weigh 3000 lb., that weight including 880 lb. of lithium-ion batteries. Two electric motors making 204 horsepower drive the rear wheels. The motors are mounted independently on each axle. This independent motor-wheel combination allows a torque vectoring system that provides agile handling and superior overall performance to conventional differential systems.
That the wheelbase is 8.7-in. shorter than the production R8’s probably has something to do with it as well. The sprint to 60 mph is said to take just 5.9 seconds, and the top speed is just shy of 125 mph. With its 45 kw/hr battery, the Audi E-Tron should have a realistic range of 150 miles. A charge time of 11 hours is expected with a 230-volt/16A system. That is likely too long for most, but that time can be cut in half with a 400-volt/32A system. Just don’t ask us where you’re going to find that type of juice in your garage. An unusual braking system maximizes energy recovery. The majority of braking is via the electric motors, but in extreme conditions a hydraulic circuit on the front axle is employed, as well as a brake-by-wire electro -mechanical system in back. This system is said to minimize complexity and save weight.
We suspect that a production version of the e-Tron, perhaps called the R4, will be quite sporting, while maintaining a high level of efficiency. We also suspect the car has been designed to accept a more conventional power source, such as a supercharged V-6 or a turbocharged inline-4.
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