Audi Unveiling 310-Mile EV Concept at Frankfurt

Audi announces plans for an all-electric car in the 2018 timeframe and will show a concept version of it in the form of a 4-passenger CUV at next month’s Frankfurt Auto Show.

The Audi e-tron Quattro concept builds on drivetrain technology in the Audi R8 e-tron, an electrically driven sports car from the German automaker on sale this year in limited quantities.

The concept pairs a lithium-ion battery to three electric motors – one on the front axle and two on the rear axle – for an estimated range of 310 miles (500 km).

The CUV’s range also benefits from an intensely aerodynamic design and sealed underbody, the automaker says, which yields a coefficient of drag of 0.25. Audi considers the Cd value a new record in the segment.

The vehicle leverages Audi’s second-generation modular-longitudinal platform, and its battery is positioned between the axles and below the passenger compartment for a low center of gravity and balanced weight distribution, which improves driving dynamics and safety, Audi says.

Dimensionally, the concept will fit between the Q5 and Q7 CUVs. It features a coupe-like profile and spacious interior, the automaker says.

In addition to the R8 e-tron, the concept follows on the heels of the A3 Sportback e-tron on sale this year. However, the A3 e-tron uses plug-in hybrid electric technology, combining a 1.4L TFSI 4-cyl. engine with a 75-kW (100-hp) electric motor for a total output of 204 hp. It travels 31 miles (50 km) electrically and 533 miles (890 km) when aided by the gasoline engine.

The concept also answers the expanding portfolio of U.S.-based luxury EV maker Tesla, which will launch an all-electric Model X CUV this year to complement its Model S sports car. Tesla has not revealed the range of the Model X, but the base-level Model S travels up to 261 miles (420 km) electrically.

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