The Audi R8 e-tron demonstrates how emotional and dynamic electric mobility can be. Its two electric motors, supplied with energy by a large 48.6 kWh battery, develop 280 kW (380 hp) along with 820 Nm (604.80 lb-ft) of torque. They accelerate the high-performance sports car from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.2 seconds and to a governed top speed of 200 km/h (124.27 mph). The battery charge is good for an operating range of 215 kilometers (133.59 miles). Through the R8 e-tron, Audi has acquired extensive expertise that will benefit its electrified production models.
The Audi R8 e-tron weighs in at 1,780 kilograms (3,924.23 lb). Its body structure, including the side sections, weighs just 199 kilograms (438.72 lb), 23 kilograms (50.71 lb) less than that of the R8 Coupé, which already sets the bar very high with its aluminum-based ASF principle (Audi Space Frame). Here, Audi presents a new stage in the development of its ultra lightweight construction technology - a Multimaterial Space Frame, in which large parts made of carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) supplement the aluminum frame.
The CFRP components contribute 23 percent and the metal parts 75 percent of the bodyshell weight; miscellaneous materials make up the remainder. The forward structure of the R8 e-tron is a classic aluminum design. The dominant material in the occupant cell is CFRP, with the tail end using a blend of both materials. The supporting trunk insert of CRFP incorporates corrugated crash structures that mean the rear module can absorb five times as much energy as an aluminum lattice structure. For the B-posts and rear bulkhead, a new sandwich concept reduces the weight by 11.5 kilograms (25.35 lb).