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September 16, 2015
Audi Unveils an Electric SUV Concept | Audi
Audi e-tron quattro concept
Audi Unveils Electric SUV Concept
Audi has unveiled the "e-tron quattro concept" at the ongoing Frankfurt Motor Show. This is a concept model for an SUV-type electric vehicle, with plans for a production version to be released in 2018.
Text by OHTO Yasuhiro
370kW Maximum Output and 800Nm Maximum Torque
The "e-tron quattro concept," making its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, is Audi's electric sports SUV. It features the e-tron quattro drive system, delivering up to 370kW, and a sleek design achieving a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.25.
The highlight of the Audi e-tron quattro concept lies in its new EV powertrain.
Comprising three electric motors, it delivers a total output of 320kW. One motor drives the front wheels, while the other two motors power the rear wheels. The system includes a boost function that momentarily increases power, providing a maximum output of 370kW and 800Nm of torque for very short durations. This enables impressive acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 210 km/h.
This three-motor EV powertrain marks the first realization of Audi's extensively researched e-tron quattro technology, with an intelligent drive management system enabling precise control of the motors according to driving conditions. Drivers can freely select the energy recuperation level, driving programs ('D' or 'S'), and Audi drive select modes, allowing for a focus on efficiency or performance as needed.
By positioning the large-capacity lithium-ion battery for drive power beneath the cabin floor, the weight distribution between the front and rear axles is optimized while lowering the vehicle's center of gravity. With a battery capacity of up to 95kWh, a driving range exceeding 500km is ensured.
Charging utilizes the Combined Charging System (CCS), compatible with both DC and AC power. Using a 150kW DC fast charger, a full charge can be achieved in approximately 50 minutes. Additionally, Audi's wireless charging technology allows for contactless charging, and on sunny days, power can be supplied to the battery from the large solar roof.
Audi e-tron quattro concept
Audi Unveils Electric SUV Concept
Production Version to Materialize in 2018
While considering high aerodynamic performance, the exterior achieves a sporty SUV style by cleverly integrating various components of the electric drive system. The five-door body measures 4.88m long, 1.93m wide, and 1.54m high, with a distinctively low, coupe-like roofline. The silhouette is also sporty and dynamic, resembling a coupe.
Beyond its sleek styling, it also excels in performance. While many SUV models struggle to achieve a drag coefficient (Cd) significantly better than 0.30, this concept achieves an outstanding 0.25. Electrically movable aerodynamic elements further refine the airflow around the body during high-speed driving. This also contributes to reducing wind noise inside the cabin, enhancing the quietness that is a key advantage of EVs.
The headlights, which not only enhance visibility but also define the impression of the front fascia, employ Matrix LED technology. Below the light units, a combination of LEDs and extremely thin OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) elements are integrated. This concept car is the first to feature Audi's developed Matrix OLEDs, a technology slated for future market introduction.
The cabin offers spacious and comfortable seating for four, along with a 615-liter luggage compartment. The cockpit features a fully digital instrument cluster, with two touchscreens located below and to the left and right. The right-hand screen is used for controlling the autonomous driving system.
The Audi e-tron quattro concept is equipped with all the necessary technologies for autonomous driving.
Data from cameras and sensors is aggregated by a central driver assistance controller called zFAS. zFAS calculates the vehicle's surroundings from this data and shares it among all onboard assistance and autonomous driving systems, thereby enhancing safety and functionality in an integrated manner.
Audi indicates that such systems will soon be available in production vehicles.
Audi plans to introduce a new luxury sports SUV in early 2018, and this model embodies the technologies that will be featured in that production vehicle. It will be exciting to see what kind of luxury SUV emerges in three years.



