Audi is expanding its new e-tron model family step by step. The A1 e-tron, which Audi is showing at the Geneva Motor Show, is an innovative Mega City Vehicle (MCV). Like its sports car brothers, it has an electric drive system. The A1 e-tron has a range of more than 31 miles in city traffic, and its peak output of 102PS also makes it fun to drive. A compact internal combustion engine recharges the battery when its energy is depleted.

The powerful front-mounted, transverse electric motor thrusts the A1 e-tron forward with authority. The car sprints from a standstill to 62mph in only 10.2 seconds on its way to a top speed of more than 80mph. The compact MCV is a zero-emissions vehicle for the first 31.07 miles that it is underway, such as in city traffic. The battery comprises a package of lithium-ion modules mounted in the floor assembly in front of the rear axle.

A small, single-rotor Wankel engine is used in this near-series concept vehicle to increase the range in exceptional circumstances. This “range extender” powers a generator that produces 15 kW of charging power. If the range extender is used to recharge the battery, the A1 e-tron can cover an additional 124 miles of range. According to a draft standard for the computation of fuel consumption for range extender vehicles, this represents a fuel consumption of 148.7mpg – a CO2 equivalent of only 45 g/km.

Thanks to its grown-up, sporty yet comfortable character, the Audi A1 e-tron drives like a car from a larger class. The concept car rolls on 18 inch alloy wheels. Many fine details in the interior document the Audi philosophy: The new electric mobility requires absolutely no sacrifices in terms of sportiness or comfort – on the contrary – it stands for an innovative and smart form of driving fun.