2015 AUDI E-TRON A3

One of the strategic corporate objectives of Audi is to develop technologies that combine driving fun with sustainability. It seeks solutions that strike a balance between individual mobility on the one hand and economy, ecology and the requirements of Audi customers on the other. The models of the Audi tron family demonstrate especially well how these seemingly opposing pulls can be reconciled. g-tron stands for drive concepts that run on synthetic Audi e-gas and natural gas and achieve an excellent COâ‚‚ footprint. The first production model to pave the way for COâ‚‚-neutral long-distance mobility is the A3 Sportback g-tron. The term e-tron, on the other hand, stands for the systematic electrification of the driveline. As one outcome of its research and development projects in this area, Audi is now going into volume production with the A3 Sportback e-tron, the first premium compact car with plug-in hybrid drive.

With its plug-in hybrid concept, the A3 Sportback e-tron combines the advantages of the combustion engine with those of electric drive. The entire expertise that Audi has built up in the sphere of hybrid technology has been channeled into its concept. The parallel driveline features a 1.4 TFSI working in tandem with a powerful electric motor. The power is transmitted to the front wheels via a newly developed e-S tronic. The liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery is located ahead of the front axle; it stores 8.8 kWh of energy, enough to drive 50 kilometers (31.07 miles) purely electrically and therefore with zero local emissions.

With 150 kW (204 hp) of system power and 350 Nm of system torque (258.15 lb-ft), the Audi A3 Sportback e-tron is a sporty premium compact vehicle. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 222 km/h (137.94 mph). The overall range is 940 kilometers (584.09 miles) and the electric range 50 kilometers (31.07 miles). Consumption measured in accordance with the ECE standard averages just 1.5 liters of fuel per 100 km (156.81 US mpg), equivalent to CO2 emissions of 35 grams per kilometer (56.33 g/mile). The A3 Sportback e-tron will go on sale from the end of 2013.

The A3 Sportback g-tron interprets the principle of sustainable mobility in a new, pioneering way. Its 1.4-liter TFSI engine runs on Audi e-gas, a synthetic fuel that in chemical terms is almost identical to natural gas and can therefore be distributed as mains natural gas. This fuel, which the brand with the four rings produces at its newly completed facility in Werlte, in the Emsland district, is CO2-neutral. Its starting components are water and carbon dioxide, and it is produced using exclusively renewable power. The A3 Sportback g-tron will be arriving at dealers before the end of this year.

Motor sport is the ideal development lab for new technologies, and the toughest test environment is the 24 Hours of Le Mans. At last year’s competition on the Sarthe circuit, the R18 e-tron quattro brought Audi a historic double victory with a hybrid racecar that highlights just how much power an electrified driveline can put on the road.

In terms of its concept, the LMP-1 prototype is an uncompromising racing car, but in numerous individual areas it harbors potential that could ultimately find its way into production models The V6 TDI in the 2012 Le Mans winner supplies over 375 kW (510 hp) and 850 Nm (626.93 lb-ft) to the rear wheels. The motor-alternator unit (MAU) on the front axle is always good for 150 kW of extra thrust when accelerating out of a bend. Here it uses energy that it has captured during braking operations and stored temporarily in a flywheel energy storage system. When both electric motors on the front axle are active, the LMP-1 prototype becomes a quattro.

As well as the R18 e-tron quattro, last year Audi brought out a second high-tech car – the all-electric-drive R8 e-tron high-performance sports car. It sprints from a standstill to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.2 seconds and is governed at 200 km/h (124.27 mph). Its two electric motors supply the rear wheels with a combined 280 kW of power and 820 Nm of torque (604.80 lb-ft).

With its body made from aluminum and carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic polymer (CFRP), the multimaterial space frame of the Audi R8 e-tron is the latest manifestation of the ultra lightweight construction technology of Audi. Every facet of this high-performance sports cars demonstrates the sheer breadth of what is technically feasible. All components are systematically configured for maximum performance and range. All Audi production developments will now benefit from the expertise acquired throughout this project. There is for instance the large T‑shaped battery that doubles up as a supporting element and stores almost 49 kWh of energy, enough to drive 215 km (133.59 miles). The heat pump controls the temperature of the interior and assemblies energy-efficiently. The aerodynamics have also been optimized for maximum efficiency. The engineers of Audi have covered all key aspects of electric mobility with the R8 e-tron.

The Audi A1 e-tron is a technology demonstrator of entirely different stature. It is conceived as a specialist for urban driving. Its electric motor achieves peak output of 85 kW. The battery stores 13.3 kWh, making a operating range of 50 km (31.07 miles) possible. For longer journeys a rear-mounted combustion engine, which in its second development stage develops 25 kW (34 hp), charges up the electric motor via an alternator. Audi is participating in the German government’s “Electric Mobility Showcase” pilot project by running the A1 e-tron in six regions throughout the country in order to obtain more practical findings.

The A3 Sportback g-tron and A3 Sportback e-tron already show how diverse the Audi range of technologies for sustainable mobility is. Audi will be bringing further pioneering cars onto the market in rapid succession.

HERNDON, Va., August 5, 2014 – Audi of America today announced the launch of Audi energy®, a comprehensive program designed to help improve the electric vehicle ownership experience and reduce the carbon footprint that comes with vehicle production, distribution and driving.

Audi energy will be available with the introduction of the first plug-in hybrid vehicle offered by the brand – the Audi A3 Sportback e-tron, which is scheduled to debut at select dealerships in the U.S. during the second half of 2015. Through the Audi energy program, Audi will offer three unique opportunities to help improve sustainability and reduce carbon emissions:

– At-home Audi-designed Level 2 charging developed in conjunction with Bosch Automotive Service Solutions will be available for qualified owners of the A3 e-tron.
– Audi will purchase carbon offset certificates in California and Africa to offset certain greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with A3 Sportback e-tron vehicles.
– SunPower will provide an optional home solar power system for Audi owners, especially A3 Sportback e-tron customers, including a newly developed home energy storage solution to capture additional solar energy.

“The Audi A3 Sportback e-tron will offer drivers an eco-conscious vehicle ownership experience,” said Wayne Killen, General Manager, Product Strategy and Launch.. Audi energy takes this to the next level with solutions that allow for sustainable fuel driving and a lower carbon footprint. We believe this will be one of the most comprehensive offering in the industry today.”

In addition to offering the all-new Audi A3 Sportback e-tron, which is expected to debut in the second half 2015 at participating dealerships in all 50 states, Audi will also offer the following as part of the Audi energy program:

Level 2 Audi charger. Standard.
Through Bosch Automotive Service Solutions, Audi will offer qualified owners of the all-new A3 Sportback e-tron models premium installation services to help quickly and safely convert the owner’s residence to 240V power at the charging location of their choosing as well as installation of the Audi designed Level 2 charger for at-home recharging. The Audi-designed Level 2 charger will come standard with the purchase of an all-new Audi A3 Sportback e-tron. Installation costs will be extra.

Ultra-low carbon footprint. Standard.
A distinctive component of Audi energy is possible through an innovative arrangement with 3Degrees, a certified B Corporation and leading carbon offset and Renewable Energy Credit (REC) provider based in San Francisco with several U.S. Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency awards as Green Power Supplier of the Year. Investing in two types of carbon reduction programs, one in the U.S. and the other in Africa (in a United Nations REDD+ zone), Audi will offset most of the greenhouse gas emissions that result from the A3 Sportback e-tron vehicle’s final assembly, including battery production, shipping the vehicle to the Audi dealer, and 50,000 miles of driving. These emissions represent the majority of greenhouse gas emissions up through approximately the vehicle’s first 50,000 driven miles.

Residential solar and energy storage. Optional
Audi has reached an agreement with San Jose, Calif.-based SunPower to offer optional home solar power systems to Audi owners in all 50 states, including A3 e-tron customers. With the highest efficiency solar panels available in the industry today – including the 21% efficient X-Series Solar Panel which produces 75 percent more energy over 25 years than a conventional panel – SunPower rooftop solar systems can help customers enhance the energy efficiency of their A3 e-tron and home while lowering their electric utility costs.

Moreover, with lease, loan, and cash programs available, SunPower’s flexible financing options make renewable energy even more accessible to Audi customers.

Additionally, Audi customers will be the first among SunPower’s automotive partners to receive premier access to its energy storage solution which currently is in final testing and expected to be available in early 2015. The SunPower storage system is designed to provide homeowners peace-of-mind and security that comes with knowing that during a power outage, their solar system will continue producing energy, and customers will have access to stored energy for powering their homes and A3 e-tron.

Audi A3 Sportback e-tron
The Audi A3 Sportback e-tron combines sporty power with efficiency and a Level 2 charger for an eco-conscious and hassle-free electric driving experience. Expected to go on sale at participating dealerships in all 50 states in the Fall of 2015, the A3 Sportback e-tron features multiple driving modes that give drivers wide flexibility in their EV and hybrid driving experience. Additionally, instead of a purely mechanical braking system like many electrified vehicles, an innovative recuperation system harnesses brake kinetic energy back into electricity for the drive battery. In hybrid mode, its range will be comparable to conventional combustion engine vehicles. Final EPA mileage numbers will be announced closer to the sale date.

More details on the Audi A3 Sportback e-tron and Audi energy will be made available as the 2015 sales date draws nearer.

– End –

ABOUT AUDI
Audi of America, Inc. and its U.S. dealers offer a full line of German-engineered luxury vehicles. AUDI AG is among the most successful luxury automotive brands globally. The Audi Group delivered 1,575,500 vehicles to customers globally in 2013, and broke all-time company sales records for the 4th straight year in the U.S. Through 2018, AUDI AG will invest about $30 billion on new products, facilities and technologies. Visitwww.audiusa.com or www.audiusanews.com for more information regarding Audi vehicles and business topics.

ABOUT BOSCH
In the U.S., Canada and Mexico, the Bosch Group manufactures and markets automotive original equipment and aftermarket solutions, industrial drives and control technology, power tools, security and communication systems, packaging technology, thermotechnology, household appliances, healthcare telemedicine and software solutions. Having established a regional presence in 1906, Bosch employs 24,600 associates in more than 100 locations, with consolidated sales of $10.4 billion in 2013. For more information, visitwww.boschusa.com, www.bosch.com.mx and http://www.bosch.ca.

ABOUT SUNPOWER
SunPower (NASDAQ: SPWR) designs, manufactures and delivers the highest efficiency, highest reliability solar panels and systems available today. Residential, business, government and utility customers rely on the company’s quarter century of experience and guaranteed performance to provide maximum return on investment throughout the life of the solar system. Headquartered in San Jose, Calif., SunPower has offices in North America, Europe, Australia, Africa and Asia. For more information, visit www.sunpower.com.

ABOUT 3DEGREES
The mission of 3Degrees is to connect people with renewable energy on a massive scale. The company realizes this mission by partnering with utilities to offer green power options to 25 million customers and providing renewable energy certificates and carbon offsets to Fortune 500® companies, green building firms, utilities, and other organizations committed to sustainability.

A certified B Corporation and six-time winner of the DOE/EPA Green Power Supplier of the Year Award, 3Degrees is headquartered in San Francisco, California, with regional offices throughout the U.S. To learn more, visit 3degreesinc.com.

“Audi,” “Truth in Engineering,” the four rings logo and all model names are registered trademarks of AUDI AG. “SunPower” is a registered trademark of SunPower Corp. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

2015 AUDI A3 SPORTBACK E-TRON (UK)

Five-seat plug-in hybrid offers zero local emissions driving without sacrificing range or everyday usability

• A3 Sportback e-tron available to order from early August priced at £34,950 OTR (excluding UK government incentives) – first UK customer deliveries from January 2015
• Electric power makes 176.6mpg and CO₂ emissions of 37g/km possible
• Combined 204PS of system power and 350Nm of system torque – 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds, 137mph top speed
• Capable of travelling at up to 80mph for up to 31 miles under purely electric power – total range of up to 584 miles
• Generous specification including LED headlights, HDD navigation and Audi connect Internet-based services

The 2014 World Car of the Year adds the potential for zero emissions motoring to its repertoire from next month as the new A3 Sportback e-tron becomes the first plug-in hybrid to join the Audi range. Priced from £34,950 OTR (excluding any government incentives), the spacious five-door compact hatchback combines a conventional 1.4-litre TFSI petrol engine with an electric motor to deliver impressive performance, exceptional efficiency and, equally crucially, complete freedom from range limitation. UK ordering will be possible from early August, and the first e-trons will arrive with customers in early 2015.

The modified 1.4-litre TFSI unit, in this application featuring a peak power output of 150PS, is linked by a clutch to a 75kw electric motor, which is integrated into a specially developed six-speed S tronic transmission sending power to the front wheels. Combined, the two power units generate 204PS of system power and 350Nm of system torque, good for a 0-62mph sprint of 7.6 seconds and a top speed of 137mph.

Equally importantly, according to the ECE standard for plug-in hybrid cars, the A3 Sportback-based e-tron is capable of covering up to 176.6mpg with CO₂ emissions of just 37g/km. With the combination of electric motor and combustion engine, an overall operating range of up to 584 miles is possible.

The Audi A3 e-tron can run exclusively on electric power for up to 31 miles at speeds of up to 81mph, or can be powered by petrol combustion alone. Alternatively, the hybrid mode brings both units into play, and the driver can choose to run these simultaneously – a function known as ‘boosting’ – by initiating kickdown by the S tronic transmission. In this mode the full 350Nm torque output is deployed for the strongest possible acceleration, but when the driver stops accelerating both motors temporarily deactivate, eliminating motor braking torque and allowing the car to glide to conserve fuel and recuperate energy.

Up to medium loads the motor can also function as an alternator, making a significant contribution to retardation and recovering energy which is fed into the traction battery. In this mode the wheel brakes only become active if the driver applies moderate force to the pedal.

Three hybrid modes or full EV

The driver has several ways of actively managing the vehicle’s response. Four key settings are available – the EV mode gives priority to electric drive, the hybrid auto mode is useful for long journeys as it engages the electric motor wherever possible, the hybrid hold mode preserves the electrical energy stored in the battery for later use and the hybrid charge mode uses the combustion engine as a generator to charge the battery.

The chosen mode is displayed by a powermeter in the instrument cluster, which also shows the system’s overall output and the battery charge. The monitor for the MMI navigation plus shows the energy flows in the hybrid system. In addition, the driver information system displays the operating ranges and consumption figures for electricity and petrol.

Thanks to the Audi ultra lightweight construction philosophy, the unladen five-door model complete with all electrical components weighs just 1,540 kilograms, with space for five occupants. It is quite literally an ‘everyday’ Audi, meaning that it demonstrates outstanding attention to design, engineering, ergonomics and quality, but most importantly demands no compromises for daily use.

Despite the fact that the smaller 12-volt battery powering the more ‘conventional’ in-car systems and the 40-litre fuel tank are located above the rear axle load space isn’t significantly impaired – in the standard configuration it measures 280 litres and 1,120 litres with the rear seat backs folded down.

Comprehensive additional equipment

The extensive equipment list for the A3 Sportback e-tron also reflects this uncompromising approach. In addition to the many items offered by the A3 Sport model on which the e-tron’s specification is based, standard trimmings include exclusive e-tron exterior styling, LED headlights and daytime running lights, special ‘turbine design’ 17-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, light and rain sensors, MMI navigation plus with hard drive-based mapping and Audi connect online services bringing in-car internet access.

The A3 Sportback e-tron is supplied with two charging leads as standard. One is specifically designed for use at public charging points and the other for domestic use. This lead also features interchangeable connectors which enable charging via higher voltage industrial sockets.

The charging lead supplies the car with alternating current from the grid via the charging connection, which is located in the single frame grille behind the fold-out four rings. As well as a status LED, the unit includes two pushbuttons allowing the user to choose between timer-controlled charging and immediate charging.

The charge status of the A3 Sportback e-tron can be monitored from a smartphone using the e-tron app, or via the e-tron web portal. It is also possible to use these to remotely start or stop charging or to set the charging timer and pre-set the climate control to reach a certain temperature at a pre-determined point. This means that the driver can specify in detail at what time and on what days he or she wants to drive away with the battery fully charged.

Fully charged in around two hours

Using a domestic socket it takes four hours to fully charge the battery. When a wallbox is connected or a public charge point is used this reduces to two hours and fifteen minutes.