Audi R8 e-tron returns as all-electric supercar at Geneva
Audi has unveiled the production-ready R8 e-tron at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, promising 462hp, a 280-mile range and a new direction for electric performance cars.
Audi has revealed the production version of its R8 e-tron at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, marking the electric supercar’s first public appearance after years of development and delays. The new model sits alongside the latest petrol-powered R8, but swaps the V10 for a pair of electric motors and a bespoke battery pack.
Audi’s second attempt at an electric R8, the e-tron 2.0, builds on lessons from the earlier prototype that never reached customers. The new car uses a T-shaped lithium-ion battery, mounted in the centre tunnel and behind the seats, specifically developed for this application. With a capacity of 92kWh, the battery enables a claimed range of up to 280 miles (450km) on a single charge, a substantial improvement over the original concept’s 133 miles.
Performance and technical details
Power comes from two electric motors, one for each rear wheel, producing a combined 462hp (340kW) and 920Nm of torque. Audi claims the R8 e-tron can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds, matching the performance of many petrol supercars. Top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h (155mph).
| Power | 462hp (340kW) |
|---|---|
| Torque | 920Nm |
| 0–100km/h | 3.9 seconds |
| Top speed | 250km/h (electronically limited) |
| Battery capacity | 92kWh |
| Range (claimed) | Up to 280 miles (450km) |
The e-tron’s battery pack uses high-voltage lithium-ion cells developed by Audi. The T-shaped layout helps maintain a low centre of gravity and preserves cabin space. Charging times and infrastructure details were not disclosed at launch, but the car’s range puts it near the top of the electric performance segment for 2015.
Position in the R8 range and market
The R8 e-tron shares its aluminium and carbon-fibre structure with the standard R8, but the electric version is rear-wheel drive only. Visually, it is distinguished by unique aerodynamic tweaks and a closed front grille. The car was presented alongside the new R8 V10 and the Q7 e-tron SUV, highlighting Audi’s push into electrification across its range. For more on the petrol-powered R8, see 2016 Audi R8 debuts at Geneva with new V10 and e-tron variant.
Audi did not confirm a sale date or price for the R8 e-tron at Geneva. The company previously suggested the car would be produced in small numbers for select customers, but details on market availability remain unannounced. The R8 e-tron’s Geneva debut signals Audi’s intention to compete with electric supercars, but its commercial future was still uncertain as of early 2015.
