Audi details electric Urban Concept [w/video]

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Audi electric urban concept – Click above to watch video after the jump

Audi
has dished out some details on the quirky electric concept that our spies recently caught in action over in Berlin, Germany. The electric Audi Urban Concept is a 1+1-seat, ultra-lightweight vehicle that Audi says is designed for congested city spaces. The German automaker says the "technical study" will make its official debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

The Audi Urban Concept is not based on a existing vehicle – its development adheres to strict principles of lightweight construction, efficiency and reduction. The result, says Audi, is a vehicle with, "no unnecessary weight, and one that concentrates on the pure essence of sporty motion." This diminutive Audi makes extensive use of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer, which integrates the undercarriage of both seats, to keep weight in check.

The Urban Concept is powered by a pair of e-tron electric motors that get juice from a lithium-ion battery pack. Audi says the ultra-lightweight concept is, "ideal for extended city tours." Hit the jump to see more of the electric Audi Urban Concept.



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The Audi urban concept – a completely new kind of concept car

An innovative urban concept car with 1+1 seats
Sleek cockpit made from CFRP, free-standing wheels with protective plates
Elaborate suspension, compact electric drive system for sporty performance

Audi is once again opening up new horizons: the Audi urban concept is a 1+1-seat, ultra-light car for congested urban spaces. The technical study, which will be shown at the Frankfurt Auto Show (IAA) 2011, does not fit under any of the conventional categories – the Audi urban concept combines elements of a racing car, a fun car and an urban car into one radical new concept.

The Audi urban concept is not based on any previous model – its development is solely oriented on the strict principles of lightweight construction, efficiency and reduction. The result is a concept car with no unnecessary weight, and one that concentrates on the pure essence of sporty motion.

The Audi urban concept has a sleek body. The wheels are free-standing, their surrounding protective plates feature blinking strips of LED lights. The highly concentrated look of the technical study, with its forward-urging lines, is dynamic and emotional – it lends Audi's design language a completely new impetus.

On board there is room for two people, their position slightly staggered and at a sporty, low level. All controls and materials are subject to the dictates of ultra-lightweight construction in order to ensure they convey a completely unique, sensory allure. The driver can adjust the steering wheel and pedals to his own body measurements. The roof is designed to be maneuverable and slides to the rear to open. This enables entry to the car.

The technology in the Audi urban concept reflects the full capabilities of the brand, especially when it comes to ultra-lightweight construction. The cockpit consists of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer, which integrates the undercarriage of both seats. The Audi urban concept rolls on wheels with a 21-inch diameter.

Two e-tron electric motors provide the propulsion – providing the ultra-light Audi urban concept with the ability to accelerate powerfully. A lithium-ion battery supplies the energy – ideal for extended city tours.

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