Aside from introducing the all-new R8 V10, Audi had also brought down the e-tron version of their updated supercar at the recent Geneva Motor Show. This time, Audi had given the all-electric version of the R8 a revamp that enables it to not only have proper power, but also a range that will be practical for real-world usage.
The new R8 e-tron will be powered by two electric motors that produce a combined output of 462PS and not surprisingly a massive amount of torque – 679 lb-ft. With a zerotohundred time in just 3.9 seconds, the new R8 e-tron now has a range of 450km, giving it a 215km edge over the previous version. This amazing feat is possible through something called the Combined Charging System and Audi claims that charging the battery to the brim takes less than two hours.
Some modifications were done to the R8 not only to differentiate it from the gas-guzzling sibling, but also to make it more slippery and efficient. Fitted with special wheels, the R8 e-tron has an aerodynamic drag coefficient (cd) value of 0.28. They had also given the R8 e-tron a larger battery capacity from 49kWh to about 92kWh. The T-shaped battery is structurally integrated into the centre tunnel and behind the occupant cell, allowing it keep the centre of gravity as low as possible.
Interested in owning such a technological feat? Worry not as Audi is willing to hand-build one of these electric supercars upon customer request and will be available for order sometime in 2015.
