Audi E-tron Detroit Showcar Unveiled, But Production Plans Are Hazy

DETROIT — The second version of the Audi E-tron electric vehicle made its formal debut on Monday at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show. Audi described the wedge-shaped two-seater to Inside Line as "a little brother of the first E-tron" displayed at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show.

When asked by Inside Line if the Audi E-tron Detroit showcar is "pie in the sky" or bound for the real world, Audi said plans were still murky.

"The Frankfurt/L.A. [E-tron] is coming in low volumes in late 2012," replied Audi of America spokesman Christian Bokich in an e-mailed response. "The E-tron debuting today at NAIAS in Detroit is a little brother of the first E-tron shown in late 2009, and we will announce whether or not it's going into production at a later date."

This newest E-tron combines a low weight of 2,976 pounds, a short wheelbase of 95.6 inches and "perfect weight distribution," according to Audi. The German automaker says this latest all-electric-drive vehicle "has all the drivability of a go-kart."

It has a range of 155 miles. Audi said it is equipped with two electric motors with a combined output of 204 horsepower, enabling it to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. Top speed is 124 mph. Lithium-ion batteries are located behind the passenger compartment. The latest E-tron also uses "innovative thermal management," which Audi says is "crucial for maintaining a high operating range coupled with outstanding interior comfort."

Exterior cues include a flat curved roof and 19-inch wheels. The Detroit showcar does not have conventional foglamps because they eat up power, said Audi. Instead, the car "intelligently varies the low beams; in fog, for example, it produces a wider, more horizontal illumination field, thus significantly reducing the glare from the car's own lights." The body structure is based on Audi Space Frame technology with the doors, lids, sidewalls and roof made of a fiber-reinforced plastic. "Audi will soon use this technology in a similar form for future production vehicles," the German automaker confirmed in a statement.

The new E-tron's cockpit is the first Audi to get a large built-in central display with integrated MMI functions. "The MMI is controlled via a scroll pad with a touch-sensitive surface on the steering wheel — an element inspired by modern smart phones," said Audi. The showcar also nearly eliminates switches and "small components such as the ignition," touches that will be hallmarks of Audi electric vehicles.

Inside Line says: We're betting that this one is a go — and if it isn't, it should be. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent