Audi announces A3 e-tron EV pilot program

Audi is launching a pilot program in the U.S. for its A3 e-tron, a battery-electric luxury car. Markets participating in the year-long pilot include Los Angeles, Washington D.C., Denver and San Francisco.

Announced at TED2012, Audi is looking go further with EV’s in the U.S. market, and has a vision for its role in the future of transportation in urban areas.

“The A3 e-tron pilot program serves as an important innovation platform for Audi to develop greater insight into electric vehicles and how American driving conditions affect use of the progressive technology in everyday life,” said Jeff Curry, e-mobility and sustainability strategy lead at Audi of America. “We will integrate the data generated from this program into the launch of a range of Audi e-tron models for American drivers.”

The A3 e-tron is based on the diesel and petrol variants currently available in the U.S. and features a 26kw lithium-ion battery, zero emissions, and a power output of 199 lb-ft of torque, along with a 90 mile range and a 90mph top speed.

– By: Alexandra Koken