The Audi A3 e-tron concept showcases a luxury hatchback that can consume just 1.5 litres of fuel per 100km using a petrol-electric.
Audi has released pictures and details of the plug-in hybrid version of its new five-door A3, which is expected to go into production in 2014.
In addition to the ultra-low fuel consumption, the Audi A3 e-tron emits just 35 grams of CO2 per kilometre.
Audi’s hybrid hatch combines a 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder and an electric motor for a total output of 150kW and 350Nm. They complement each other with the electric motor producing immediate torque from rest up to about 2000rpm, with a slight overlap with the maximum torque of the petrol engine that peaks between 1750 and 4000rpm.
The two units are linked by a clutch that’s integrated into a six-speed ‘e-S tronic’ gearbox that transfers power to the front wheels.
The Audi A3 e-tron can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 7.6 seconds and travel as fast as 222km/h.
Drivers can switch between modes. In full electric mode the e-tron can travel 50km at up to 130km/h, or the driver can opt for petrol power only or combine the two in hybrid mode.
The Audi A3 e-tron will debut at the 2013 Geneva motor show in early March.
The new Volkswagen Golf, which shares its platform with the new A3, is also expected to use a similar drivetrain for a plug-in variant due in either 2014 or 2015.
Audi has now shown a handful of various e-tron concepts and is targeting petrol-electric variants across its range.
