Audi Announces Electric Pilot Program

Audi will start testing its electric powertrain systems (collectively called e-tron) with select customers in pilot programs across the U.S. and Germany, the automaker announced today. The modified Audi A3 carries a 26-kilowatt lithium-ion battery and an electric motor that will produce 199 pounds-feet of torque. Audi says the system allows for an approximate driving range of 90 miles and a top speed of 90 mph. The model will retain the interior space of the current A3, says the automaker. The A3 e-tron will be tested by customers in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and Denver. Audi engineers want to collect data with real-world drivers to monitor how the e-tron system operates in everyday driving situations. Audi will also monitor how climate changes and driving style affects the electric car's systems. The program will last about a year. Audi didn't specify how many customers would be able to join the program, what the requirements were to join or if customers pay a monthly fee for the vehicle. from KickingTires http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/

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