The Shanghai Auto show came alive today when Audi showcased its A3 e-Tron concept to the public for the first time. The A3 e-Tron is Audi’s offer of a plug-in hybrid vehicle based on the auto giant’s four-seat RS 3 Sportback.
The vehicle is still in the prototype stage. Since it is a hybrid vehicle it, uses both a diesel engine and an electric one. The diesel engine it uses is a turbocharged, direct injection, 211 hp, 1.4 liter TFSI unit and the electric engine is a 27 hp motor. All this horsepower gives the e-Tron a top speed of 144 miles per hour.
This 12kWh lithium-ion battery has dual mode of charging. It charges differently when it is running and when it is parked. When the vehicle is running the battery charges itself through the energy recovery system. But when it is parked, the battery can be charged by a household power socket. The e-Tron is being projected as a very energy-efficient vehicle. Running solely on the electric motor the e-Tron can travel for 34 miles.
Since the e-Tron is a hybrid vehicle, it would be less polluting than a conventional diesel car. The capability of running solely on electric power makes it a viable option for city driving.
Apart from the engines, e-Tron is equipped with various other unique capabilities. It has a 7-speed S-Tronic transmission which acts like an automatic direct shift gearbox. It can be operated in both manual and automatic mode. The vehicle shares some similarities with Formula 1 cars. The biggest similarity is the steering wheel paddles, which help in changing gears.
It also comes with regulated oil pump, the intelligent thermal management system, a start-stop system and an energy recovery system. All these systems combine to make the Audi A3 e-Tron the very cutting edge of hybrid vehicles.
Via: Gizmag
