Audi R8 e-Tron: The Electric Supercar that Talks to Traffic Lights

Ten times the torque of the V8-powered Audi R8. Capable of communicating to traffic lights so they can better manage traffic flow. Auto-adjusting headlights which move and change depending on weather conditions and the car’s situation. 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds. And all wrapped up in a cool looking package.

The new Audi R8 e-Tron concept car unveiled at the IAA in Frankfurt, shows us glimpses of the future for Audi and cars in general, from power trains to “car-to-x communications”.

To get an incredible 4,500Nm (3,319lb-ft) of torque, the e-Tron adopts separate lithium-ion powered electric motors for each wheel which give the car a range of over 150 miles, and 313bhp to reach a limited top speed of 124 mph. Although nothing to sneeze at, these figures don’t sound particularly impressive on their own when compared to something like the petrol R8, but this incredible torque is available over the entire rev range, so even 37-75mph only takes 4.1 seconds.

The battery weighs almost half a tonne, so positioning is important for handling and balance. Audi have decided to mount at the front of the car to get 42:58 weight distribution front to rear. Apparently Audi is also rumoured to be developing a wireless induction method of charging the batteries, which means you don’t even need to plug it into a power station!

Inside the car, Audi are keen to show us touch sensors rather than buttons for the usual climate and entertainment controls, alongside video screens instead of rear-view mirrors but overall within a clean and simple design. They’ve even kept analogue dials as a neat touch.

Expect some of these features to eventually make it into the more familiar cars in the Audi range, but in the meantime, check out the Audi leasing options we have available.