Audi Considering Plug-In Hybrid Version Of R8 Sports-Car, In Addition To 100% Electric Version

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audi-r8-etron-rearThe German automaker Audi is reportedly considering releasing a plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) version of the popular R8 Sportscar, in addition to the all-electric “e-tron” version set to be released in early 2015.

The all-electric e-tron version of the R8 is set to possess a range of around 250 miles per charge, and possesses (reportedly) abilities approaching those of the V8 version of the model.

If pursued, the plug-in hybrid version will reportedly make use of development of the powertrain from the Lamborghini Asterion LPI 910-4. Hmm.

Auto Express provides more:

The first R8 e-tron concept appeared in 2009, and was originally slated for a 2013 launch, but the project was canned by Hackenberg’s predecessor Wolfgang Durheimer. Hackenberg revived the project and set a target of 400km (250 miles) before it could be sold to the public. Clearly, that target has now been reached.

…a version of the Lamborghini Asterion LPI 910-4’s plug-in hybrid powertrain could also be fitted to the new R8. The Lambo’s system uses a V10 engine and three electric motors to produce 897bhp, power all four wheels and deliver a pure electric range of 30 miles.

You can make it with less power, too. The [Asterion] chassis isn’t the same as the R8, but the powertrain fits, so a plug-in hybrid is definitely a possibility. The hybrid system is an engine, gearbox, electric motors and power electronics. It’s a package; it’s just a case of making it fit.

Something to keep an eye out for. Let’s hope it doesn’t take Audi too long to bring another plug-in car to market. Well… the automaker doesn’t even have one on the US market yet, just the European market.

Any thoughts on these possibilities, or Audi’s EV efforts in general?

Image Credit: Audi R8 e-tron by Audi


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James Ayre

James Ayre's background is predominantly in geopolitics and history, but he has an obsessive interest in pretty much everything. After an early life spent in the Imperial Free City of Dortmund, James followed the river Ruhr to Cofbuokheim, where he attended the University of Astnide. And where he also briefly considered entering the coal mining business. He currently writes for a living, on a broad variety of subjects, ranging from science, to politics, to military history, to renewable energy.

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