Audi all-electric sports concept

PEBBLE BEACH played host to the debut of the Audi PB18 e-tron concept car. The car represents Audi’s take on the high-performance sports car of tomorrow. There are no autonomous driving aids on the PB18 e-tron. The driver is the one steering and stepping on the accelerator or brake pedal. There’s a driver’s seat and cockpit that are integrated into an inner monocoque shell that can be slid laterally. The concept uses by-wire design for the steering and pedals, which means both are controlled electronically and a mechanical connection isn’t needed. A mix of aluminum, carbon and multi-material composites ensures the body has a low basic weight. The concept uses three powerful electric motors, one up front and two in the rear. They deliver power output of up to 150kW to the front axle and 350kW to the rear. Max output stands at 500KW, and with boosting, it can temporarily go up to 570kW. Couple that with a combined torque of up to 830Nm the PB18 can accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in a little over 2s.