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Audi is set to unveil a stunning
technical study – the A3 e-tron concept – in Shanghai. The four-seat
notchback saloon integrates the full breadth of the brand’s
technological expertise – from the enhanced MMI operating system, to the
high-end infotainment system, to the drivetrain. And with its two
powerplants and lithium-ion batteries that store enough energy to propel
the car on electric power alone for up to 54 km (34 miles), the plug-in
hybrid also delivers high fuel efficiency.
Design and body
The Audi A3 e-tron concept is a four-seat notchback saloon. It measures
4.44 metres long and 1.84 metres wide, but just 1.39 metres high –
proportions that underscore its dynamic character.
The styling has all the features of the
typical Audi design language. The single-frame grille is integrated into
the front end, giving it a sculptured look. Its frame is made of carbon
fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP), and the transversely mounted,
three-dimensional aluminium louvres emphasise the showcar’s width. The
headlights merge with the bevelled upper corners of the single-frame,
forming a transition that marks the starting point of the prominent
lines of the bonnet.
The headlights represent a new stage of
evolution in LED technology, a groundbreaking innovation from Audi. They
become broader as they extend outward, and a line underneath makes them
seem to float. Above the front spoiler is a full-length air intake, also
made of CFRP, framed by a metal clasp. The spoiler features a splitter
that increases the downforce on the front wheels.
When viewed from the side, too, the A3
e-tron concept is instantly recognisable as an Audi – with its
harmonious proportions, taut, muscular surfaces and a low roof dome with
fluid lines flowing into a flat, coupe-like C-pillar. The shoulder area
transitions elegantly into the tailgate. Characteristic of Audi design,
the greenhouse accounts for one-third of the height, while the sheet
metal makes up the remaining two-thirds.
Powerfully flared wings hint at the
power of the engine. Two striking lines accentuate the flank: the
undercut tornado line beneath the window edge and the dynamic line above
the sills. The exterior mirrors, made of aluminium and CFRP, are perched
on top of the window-channel strips. The door handles with their
brushed-aluminium clasps are recessed flush with the door. When the
driver touches them, they power-extend.
The intelligent interplay between
surfaces and lines also defines the tail end of the A3 e-tron concept.
The broad, flat tail lights are sculptured and culminate in a point on
the inside, and the tailgate bears an elegant spoiler edge. The rear
apron includes a diffuser insert of CFRP and metal, which in turn
surrounds the two large tailpipes for the exhaust system.
Ultra-modern components, design methods
and joining techniques keep the body weight low. One example of this are
the custom-tailored blanks (panels of various thicknesses) in the floor
area. The doors, bonnet and tailgate are made of aluminium. With its
high levels of rigidity, the body provides the basis for the saloon’s
precise handling, excellent vibrational comfort and low weight – the
Audi A3 e-tron concept tips the scales at just 1,720 kg.
Drivetrain
Designed as a plug-in hybrid, the A3 e-tron concept is propelled by two
power units – a 211PS 1.4 TFSI four-cylinder engine with turbocharging
and petrol direct injection and an electric motor with an output of
27PS. The system provides a combined output of 238PS. Working together,
the petrol engine and electric motor accelerate the notchback to 62mph
in 6.8 seconds, then on to 144mph. A regulated oil pump, the intelligent
Audi thermal management system, a start-stop system and an energy
recovery system – technologies from the brand’s modular efficiency
platform – all contribute to this high efficiency.
At the heart of the A3 e-tron concept
are the lithium-ion batteries located behind the rear seats. With a
charge capacity of 12 kWh, they give the notchback a range of up to 34
miles on electric power alone.
The batteries are charged by the energy
recovery system when the car is in motion or directly from a household
power socket when it is parked. This means that in most cases, the car
is entirely emission-free in city driving.
A compact seven-speed S tronic serves
as the transmission for the compact plug-in hybrid. It comprises two
transmission structures, which are operated by two clutches. Gears are
alternately shifted by the two clutches quickly, smoothly and without
any perceptible interruption of traction.
The driver can operate the seven-speed
S tronic in one automatic mode and one manual mode, using the paddles on
the steering wheel to change gears manually. Elegant touch control
buttons alongside the handrest on the centre tunnel console allow the
driver to select drive positions R, N and D. These are backlit with red
light when it gets dark. Drive position P is automatically engaged when
the electric parking brake is applied. The launch control system manages
the sprint from a dead stop, furnishing explosive turbo power with
minimal tyre slip.
Audi A1
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