Audi has pulled the covers off the new e-tron Sportback Concept at the stage of 2017 Shanghai Motor Show. The e-tron Sportback previews a new production EV set to be introduced in 2018. The new EV spawned from the e-tron Sportback will be squarely aimed at the upcoming Jaguar I-Pace.
By the looks of it, the Sportback Concept is typically an Audi e-tron, with a plethora of LED works both fore and aft, large grille up front and hefty body style. However, in a traditional Audi designation, Sportback are usually hatchbacks. But the e-tron Sportback is a coupe-SUV, with a sloping roofline and rides on large futuristic 23-inch alloy wheels. The illuminated four-ringed logo, muscular lines and sleek LED treatment characterises the e-tron Sportback concept.
Based around the MLB platform (instead of electric MEB), there is an extensive use of carbon fibre and aluminium for the bodyshell. The cabin is strictly four seater, with a minimalistic approach. The dashboard features advanced Virtual Cockpit with a multitude of screens of different purposes.
The e-tron Sportback slot in between the Q5 and Q7, so it’s safe to assume that the impending Q6 will be spawned off this concept. Dimensionally it is similar to the BMW X6 and the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe. Power comes from three electric motors, two driving the rear wheels while one is mounted on the front axle. A combined output of 496bhp and a whopping 800Nm, enabling a 0-100kmph time of 4.5sec and a limited top speed of 210kmph. An advanced 95-kWh lithium-ion battery provides a driving range of 500km.
This is the third coupe-SUV with electric powertrain under the Volkswagen Group to be showcased at the Shanghai stage, the other two being the Skoda Vision E and Volkswagen I.D. Crozz. This underlines how serious VW is with its electrification push and its intention of launching 30+ EVs by 2025. Audi has also revealed its plans of launching three electric vehicles by 2020. One of which would be an SUV as it seemed to be flavour these days, and now we even have a concept for the same to look forward to.
