Audi Revs Up Electric Supercar Concept

Audi AG describes its all-electric PB18 e-tron concept car as a vision of a “high-performance supercar” of the future.

The carmaker took the wraps off the concept, which could preview a replacement for the current R8 model, at this week’s Concours d’Elegance in Pebble Beach, Calif. Audi Design Loft in Malibu, Calif., and Audi Sport in Neckarsulm, Germany, teamed up on the project.

The PB18’s “shooting brake” design features a cab-forward layout in the front and a sport wagon look in the rear. Styling cues include a bold hexagon grille and thin headlights up front, and a rear that is highlighted by a full-width light bar and adjustable rear spoiler and diffuser.

At 178 inches long, 79 inches wide and 45 inches tall, the PB18 is larger and lower than the R8. Weight is kept to about 3,400 lbs, thanks to an aluminum/carbon/composite construction.

Power comes from three electric motors. One delivers 201 hp to the front axle, while the other two each provides 234 hp to a rear wheel. The total output of 671 hp can be briefly boosted to 764 hp at full throttle.

Top speed is listed at more than 186 mph with a zero-to-62 mph time of just over two seconds. Torque vectoring allows the car’s 612 lb-ft of torque to be split between wheels as needed.

The car’s next-generation 95-kWh solid-state battery promise a driving range of 311 miles. Audi says the battery can be fully replenished in 15 minutes via an 800-volt charger. The car also is equipped for wireless charging.

Unlike most recent concept and new production vehicles, the PB18 has no driver-assist systems. Audi says its intent was to create a driver-focused car.