AUDI E-TRON QUATTRO CONCEPT What is it?
The new E-tron Quattro concept vehicle previews the looks, dimensions and engineering of a pure-electric E-tron version of Audi’s forthcoming Q6 coupe/ crossover, and is a not-so-subtle response to upstart California electric-vehicle maker Tesla and its Model X.
Based on the same platform as the next-generation Q5, the E-tron Quattro’s exterior styling also suggests that future electric Audis will get their own distinctive aerodynamic styling (for example, the Frankfurt show car features various dynamic aero body pieces that activate at different speeds). From a technical standpoint, the E-tron Quattro pulls from the latest in Audi’s engineering cupboard — including its battery and electricdrive technologies, lightweight construction, and said aerodynamics — to deliver the type of on-road performance customers expect from the German automaker’s gas or diesel models, but with the ability to be driven up to 500 km on electric power alone.
How? The E-tron Quattro sports three electric motors — one in the gearbox and two mounted on the rear axle, where each drives a rear wheel. In total, there will be 429 horsepower (which can be temporarily boosted to 496) and 590 pound-feet of torque.
Why does it matter? Not only does the Audi concept foreshadow an all-electric Tesla Model X-fighter, expect the basic package to be seen as a gas- or diesel-engined Q6 coupe/crossover to rival the BMW X4 and Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe.
When is it coming? While Tesla’s electric crossover is on sale now, Audi says don’t expect the production Q6 E-tron to arrive until 2018.
Should you buy it? The choice of electric crossovers today stands at one (see the Tesla). But apparently Audi thinks there are enough buyers to validate another offering.