FRANKFURT, Germany — Tantalizing rumors have been floating in the media for months that a possible electric version of the Audi R8 might surface at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show. Audi itself has fueled the fire in recent weeks with a teasing reference to its new e-Tron concept. Turns out they may be one and the same, judging from the images that leaked Monday on World Car Fans, Autocar and other Web sites.
Although details are still forthcoming, the Audi R8 e-Tron looks set to play in the same arena as the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG eDrive and the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics, among other green supercars from Europe.
The Audi concept looks like a cleaned-up version of the standard R8, with a new front fascia and grille, LED headlamps, new wheels and a restyled rear end. The cockpit is considerably revamped as well.
We'll find out in a day or so whether the drivetrain is pure electric or hybrid.
Inside Line says: The already hot R8 hasn't gotten much better-looking in the transition. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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