The Audi PB18 e-tron concept was shown at the 2018
Paris Auto Show. The PB18 (where PB stands for Pebble Beach where the concept
originally had its debut this year, and '18' signifies the tech DNA it shares
with the LMP1 Audi R18 e-tron) is a radical vision for the
"high-performance sports car of tomorrow".
Designed in Audi's Malibu, CA, studio, the PB18
e-tron prides itself on having "no complex systems for piloted driving on
board and no comfort features to add weight". Inside, Audi says that the
driver can choose to have their seat positioned in the middle, for solo, track
day events, or towards a side and accommodate a passenger for daily
applications. This is made possible thanks to drive-by-wire systems.
Following the architecture of a mid-engine sports
car, the centre of gravity is located behind the seats and ahead of the rear
axle. The concept uses three electric motors - one up front and two in the rear
- with max output rated for 670 hp and 764 hp in temporary
boost mode. With 830 Nm on tap, the PB18 can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 2
seconds, claims Audi.
The PB18's liquid cooled, solid-state battery with a
capacity of 95 kWh provides a range of 500 km, and thanks to a design which allows
charging with a voltage of 800 volts, a full charge takes a mere 15 minutes,
the company claims. Cordless induction charging is also possible, thanks to
Audi Wireless Charging (AWC). A mix of aluminium, carbon and multi-material
composites ensures a total weight of less than 1,550 kg (expected).
