Audi has not hidden the fact that one of the drive systems it intends to utilize in the coming years is electric drive. The German luxury carmaker has hinted that it will begin rolling out e-tron models in 2018, first with an SUV, to be followed by a sporty four-door coupe. To reinforce this, Audi just revealed the e-tron Sportback design concept at the Auto Shanghai 2017.
Taking its cue from the swoopy lines of the Audi Sportback four-door coupe, as seen on the A7, the e-tron Sportback takes it a step further by applying next-generation technologies for both drive and vehicle systems.
The exterior lights, for instance, use LED matrix technology, which has been pioneered by Audi and is now being used in some of its higher-end models. This one can be seen on the headlights, the daytime running lights, and the light signatures with no less than 250 LED bulbs. This practically turns night into day and gives a car a visual signature all its own.
Besides this, digital cameras take the place of the exterior mirrors, giving a wider field of vision and eliminating blind spots. This, Audi, says, is just one of the cool pieces of tech of tomorrow.
Speaking of future technology, Audi is giving us a glimpse into the quattro of the future with its electric drive system. It consists of one electric motor up front and two at the rear axle. With a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery at the center, the system drives all dour wheels and gives the e-tron Sportback a low center of gravity with a 52:48 front-rear weight distribution. Moreover, the total system output of 430hp can even increase in boost mode (yes, boost mode) up to 495hp. This allows the car to sprint from rest to 100kph in just 4.5 seconds.
Beyond the sports car-like performance, the e-tron Sportback boasts of a driving range of more than 500km in a single charge. Thanks to a combination of AC/DC charging points, one can easily top up at various charging stations when needed. In other words, there is no excuse not to go electric.
The Audi e-tron Sportback is scheduled for production by 2019.
