Audi Presents A1 e-tron With Extended Range [Gallery]

As part of its participation in the Michelin Challenge Bibendum’s rally races and test drives, German automaker has come up with five different vehicles with alternative drivetrains, including the all-electric A1 e-tron. Powered solely by electricity, the A1 e-tron offers the same amount of space for passengers and cargo as conventional-powered models.

Performance wise, the A1 e-tron is powered by an electric motor that draws its juice from a package of lithium-ion batteries arranged in a T pattern beneath the center tunnel and rear bench seat.

The electric motor develops an continuous output of 45 kW (61 hp) and a peak output of 75 kW (102 hp), transmitted to the front wheels via a single-stage transmission. The peak torque of 240 Nm (177.01 lb-ft) is available right from the start.

The A1 e-tron sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 10.2 seconds and on to a top speed of more than 130 km/h (80.78 mph). Also, it is able to cover 50 km (31 miles) on one battery charge.

For longer distances of up to 250 km (155.34 miles), there is a range extender on board. Specifically, a small rotary-piston engine, with a displacement of 254 cc, is mounted beneath the luggage compartment. Running at a constant 5,000 rpm, it recharges the battery via an alternator that generates up to 15 kW (20 hp) of electrical power.

The initial consumption of the Audi A1 e-tron range extender unit, revealed it uses just 1.9 liters per 100 km (123.80 US mpg) – a CO2 equivalent of 45 g per km (72.42 g/mile). Its tank can hold 12 liters of fuel (3.17 US gallons).