New Audi A3 e-tron Plug-in Hybrid with 201HP to Debut at Geneva Motor Show

Two weeks from now, the latest Audi A3 e-tron PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle) will make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show.

The latest A3 e-tron is equipped with a 1.4 litre TFSI turbocharged gasoline engine that generates 148 HP, and an electric motor that generates 101 HP. It utilizes a newly designed e-S tronic six-speed transmission that transmits the mechanical power to the front wheels. The two motors in the propulsion system provide a combined 201 HP, and 350 Newton-metres, or 258.1 ft-lbs of torque. This propulsion system facilitates a 0 to 62 MPH (100 km/h) acceleration time of 7.6 seconds, and a maximum velocity of 138 MPH (222 km/h). Not too shabby performance numbers for a plug-in hybrid.

Audi said that, according to the ECE standard for plug-in hybrid automobiles, this A3 e-tron consumes 1.5 litres of fuel per 100 km (156.8 MPG U.S or 188 MPG U.K). Its CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) emissions are 35 g/km, when the electric motor is in constant use.

The A3 can be driven in three different modes:

1. Electric-only: In this mode, the vehicle uses only electricity and can travel 31 miles (50 km) per charge. To convert miles to km, multiply the miles figure by 1.609344. The vehicle can attain a top speed of 81 MPH (130 km/h).
2. Hybrid mode: This involves the combined use of the electric motor and gasoline engine. The vehicle can attain a speed of 138 MPH in this mode.
3. Gasoline-only: This involves the use of the gasoline engine alone.

Even more appealing though are the looks of the Audi A3 e-tron, with the Sportback styling that is both sporty, yet practical. There is also a variant of the A3 that runs on the supposedly carbon neutral “E-Gas” that Audi is developing. Audi has not yet stated which countries this vehicle will be available in, though here’s hoping it comes to the U.S.

Source: Audi