2010 Audi A1 e-Tron

Audi has unveiled the new e-tron model series at the 80th Geneva Motor Show. The Audi A1 e-tron, a Mega City Vehicle (MCV) equipped with a powerful electric motor for zero-emission driving in the city and an internal combustion engine on board that recharges the battery in exceptional circumstances.

The first e-tron, which debuted at the 2009 IAA in Frankfurt/Main, is a near-series high-performance sports car with electric motors for all four wheels. The A1 e-tron now presents another approach, a compact electric car in the premium class, designed specifically for use in the metropolitan areas of Europe and North America.





Equipped with a 380 volt lithium-ion rechargeable battery with a nominal energy content of 12 kilowatt hours, the Audi A1 e-tron can drive 50 kilometers (31.07 miles) emission-free in city traffic on the powerful battery. On longer trips, the battery is recharged by a particularly compact internal combustion engine mounted below the luggage compartment. With its range extender, the Audi A1 e-tron can also cover longer distances. The extra range, which is intended primarily for interurban driving, is 200 kilometers (124.27 miles).

The electric motor of the Audi A1 e-tron, which is mounted transversely at the front of the car, sends its power to the front wheels via a single-speed transmission. Its continuous output is rated at 45 kW (61 hp), with peak power of 75 kW (102 hp) available in short bursts. 150 Nm (110.63 lb-ft) of torque is continuously available, and peak torque is 240 Nm (177.01 lb-ft). The Audi A1 e-tron always drives on electric power, since its internal combustion engine is only used to recharge the battery in isolated cases.

The concept of the Mega City Vehicle also requires the electrification of key auxiliaries. The refrigerant compressor of the climate control system, for example, is electrically powered by a high-voltage electric motor that supplies only the amount of power needed at the time.

The Audi A1 e-tron, has a special “Aqua Mint, pearl effect” paint finish with a contrasting roof arch which is offset in “High Gloss Steel dark.” As with the other two e-tron models, the A1 e-tron is fitted with 18-inch wheels with a 20-spoke turbine design and rear diffuser with aluminum trim lacks tailpipes. In addition, the “Aqua Mint, pearl effect” exterior color also carries over into the interior.