Audi A3 Sportback e-tron at the starting line
09/10/2013
Audi
As the first plug-in hybrid car from Audi, the Audi A3 Sportback e-tron enables up to 50 kilometers (37.01 miles) of all-electric driving with top sporty performance - and with zero local emissions. Automotive journalists from across the globe are currently testing the production version at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt. The 150 kW (204 hp) five-door car will be available to purchase from spring 2014. The price in Germany will be around 37,000 euros.
The Audi A3 Sportback e-tron combines sporty power with impressive efficiency and high driving enjoyment as well as unlimited everyday utility. Its drive system combines a 110 kW (150 hp) 1.4 TFSI engine and a 75 kW electric motor. System power is 150 kW (204 hp), and maximum torque is 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft).
The Audi A3 Sportback e-tron accelerates to a speed of 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 7.6 seconds, and it has a top speed of 222 km/h (137.94 mph). Its average fuel consumption is just 1.5 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers (156.81 US mpg), which equates to CO2 emissions of 35 g/km (56.33 g/mile). It offers a 50 kilometers (31.07 miles) driving range in electric mode; when combined with the additional 890 kilometers (553.02 miles) of range supplied by the gasoline engine, its total driving range is an impressive 940 kilometers (584.09 miles). The battery of the A3 Sportback e-tron has an energy capacity of 8.8 kWh and can be charged in less than 2.5 hours using a 16 A electrical outlet.
Thanks to systematic lightweight design, the five-door car has an unladen weight of less than 1,580 kilograms (3,483.30 lb), including all electrical components, and it offers space for five occupants and plenty of luggage. It comes complete with all the brand's strengths: elegant design, a sporty suspension, first-class ergonomics, top-notch build quality and an extensive selection of high-end assistance and infotainment systems.