Audi is now talking up a new version of the e-tron that is an electric version of its most popular vehicle, the A3. The new version of the e-tron will be the first EV wearing the Audi crest to hit the commercial market. The vehicle is expected to debut at dealers at some point in 2013.
Autoevolution reports that Audio confirmed the A3 e-tron in a roundabout way when it noted a while back that it was converting the Hungarian Gyor plant for the production of an A3 derivative. Car Advice reports that the A3 e-tron will be based on the A3 Sportback.
The A3 e-tron will use a 26.5kWh lithium ion battery pack that is situated in the center of the car under the floor and trunk. Despite the battery pack infringing on the truck space, the car still sports an ample 265 liters of cargo space. The car is front wheel drive with 100kw of power and 270Nm of torque. Car Advice cites the acceleration of the vehicle at 0-100km/h in 11.2 seconds with a top speed of 140km/h.
The range is cited at about 90 miles on a full charge and that full charge time will vary depending on the charger used. A 400v rapid charger will be offered and can recharge the car fully in about four hours. A 230v standard charger will need nine hours to recharge the car fully.
Audi is also set to bring new diesel cars to the U.S. market within the next few years.