  Audi R8 e-tron. Click image to enlarge |
That acceleration is generated by the twin 140-kW motors mounted directly on the rear axle, one connected to each rear wheel. The total is equivalent of 381 hp, and each is connected to its wheel through a single-stage planetary gear. Oh, and the torque that electric motors are legendary for? Over 600 lb-ft combined, available almost instantaneously from 0 rpm.
Because of how the electric motors power the rear wheels separately, Audi had the opportunity to experiment with torque vectoring performance on an entirely different level. Aside from the brain-melting acceleration, the distinct power shifting and stability enhancing qualities of the R8 e-tron were astounding. Intervention is controlled by decreasing the levels of traction and stability control, and never have I experienced so distinct a shift from understeer to near-oversteer by the shift in power to the outside rear wheel.
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Even under acceleration, when powering out of turns, the inside wheel starts recuperating energy, while the outer wheel continues receiving maximum torque.
Brake blending of regen and mechanical brakes in sporty driving is one of the most difficult, but impressive accomplishments of the R8 e-tron. At the press of a steering wheel–mounted button, you can increase or decrease regenerative braking aggression, from maximum energy recuperation at throttle lift to complete free-wheel coasting when looking for speed over efficiency.
It’s hard not to simply swoon over the staggering capabilities of this machine, but the greater value may have been Audi’s in-house design of the battery compartment and controls (battery cells were sourced from Panasonic), which they can now apply to more viable electric vehicles like the A1 e-tron and upcoming hybrids like the A3 e-tron.
