Last April, Audi unveiled a rather futuristic new concept vehicle, the Audi e-tron Sportback concept bowed at the 2017 Auto Shanghai, showing off a decidedly futuristic aesthetic, but looks weren’t the only thing that were cutting edge; the Audi e-tron Sportback’s powertrain is also pretty advanced. This power configuration is expected to carry through to future production all-electric Audi models.
The Audi e-tron Sportback concept proves how thrilling electromobility can be. https://t.co/CLN2xu6qSD #Audi #etron #ChargedWithExcitement pic.twitter.com/UBAr0J0CJ6
— Audi (@Audi_Online) May 13, 2017
The Highlights:
The Audi e-tron represents a big step toward electrification for the Audi brand, and as the lineup’s second electric model, it’s a signal for concepts and models to come. Here are some of the highlights we thought were worth making special note of:
- One electric motor drives the front axle and two rear-mounted electric motors send power to all four wheels, which means this advanced all-electric Audi concept also benefits from Audi quattro® all-wheel drive.
- Instead of exterior cameras, the e-tron Sportback concept uses small mounted cameras, which also improves aerodynamics thanks to less external drag.
- The headlights of the e-tron Sportback mimic “eyes,” appearing to “close” when you turn the vehicle off, and opening and displaying small welcome motions when you enter the vehicle.
- Expected to enter production in 2019.
As Audi moves along the path to all-electric mobility, the Audi e-tron Sportback serves as an important post in the road. Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, confirmed: “Our Audi e-tron will be starting out in 2018 – the first electric car in its competitive field that is fit for everyday use. With a range of over 500 kilometers (310.7 miles) and the special electric driving experience, we will make this sporty SUV the must-have product of the next decade. Following close on its heels, in 2019, comes the production version of the Audi e-tron Sportback – an emotional coupe version that is thrillingly identifiable as an electric car at the very first glance.” —from an April 18, 2017 Audi Press Release
Audi’s charting the course to all-electric mobility, and if this Audi e-tron Sportback concept is any indication of future models to come, the future is going to look very, very cool. While we’ve got some time to wait before any of us can bring this handsome Audi concept home to our families, the current Audi lineup is still your best bet for cutting-edge innovation, superior driving dynamics, and upscale design and good looks. Come see us at Audi Warrington to explore the possibilities that a new Audi car, crossover, or SUV open up.