Audi Allroad goes e-tron with Detroit concept

Audi introduced its Allroad shooting brake concept at the Detroit auto show on Monday.

The plug-in hybrid brings a total output of 408 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque from three power sources, an engine and two electric motors. The transversely mounted 2.0-liter TFSI engine provides 292 hp with help from its turbocharger. In part-load conditions, regular injection combines with direct injection to improve fuel economy.

The four-cylinder engine is connected to a disc-shaped electric motor via a decoupling clutch. The electric motor puts out 53 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque. A dual-clutch transmission sends power to the front wheels.

A second electric motor is mounted to the rear axle and provides power at low speeds. It can operate independently or in tandem with the rest of the powertrain when all wheel drive is necessary -- in slippery spots or off road.

Audi

An 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery stores power, enough for 31 all-electric miles at a time, according to Audi. An Audi-provided wall box is used for charging, which can operate with different voltages and plug connector types.

Three driving modes are offered including EV, Hybrid and Sport.

The Allroad shooting brake uses an electro-mechanical steering system. The suspension is MacPherson struts in front and a four-link rear. It has an above average ride height and 19-inch wheels, which should make for an interesting off road experience. Those wheels are made from carbon fiber-reinforced polymer.

The show car is painted in Ice Blue and carries a 98.7-inch wheelbase, 165.3-inch length, a width of 72.8 inches and a height of 55.5 inches. For reference, it's about 20 inches shorter, 3 inches lower and about the same width as the current Allroad.

As with the rims, the body shell of the Allroad is also made of CFRP. It sports somestyling cues from older off road wagons, as well as a few from Audi's e-tron stable, including the fins in the grille.

For the side, according to Audi, the Allroad gives the impression of “concentrated energy.” It has short overhangs and gray rub strips, like Allroads of the past.

The seats fold down, offering a flat cargo area for large sporting equipment.

The controls for seat heating, temperature and direction sit on spindles that automatically extend when they sense a hand approaching. The center console moves with the seat adjustments to remain an optimal distance from the driver, according to Audi.

A 12.3-inch TFT display is customizable by the driver, using three modes to display different information. Classic view shows the power meter and speedometer, infotainment mode shows track and song listings while sport mode brings up the tach.

Audi says the interface offers a look on future products.

Audi



About the Detroit Auto Show

The North American International Auto Show, known to most as the Detroit auto show, continues to serve as a barometer for the entire industry. This year, we'll expect to see the new Chevrolet Corvette Z06, the 2015 Ford Mustang and the BMW M3 and M4. The 2014 Detroit auto show is held at Cobo Hall in Detroit, MI and is open to the public from January 18-26.

By Jake Lingeman