Audi’s->ke14 E-Tron->ke3605 moniker has a brand new member. Meet the E-Tron Quattro Concept. This all-electric->ke1030 SUV->ke145 is the spiritual brother to the 2010 Audi E-Tron concept that debuted in 2010, and combined the latest technologies that make all-electric vehicles more of a consumer good than science project.

Of course automakers like Tesla->ke1842 and Nissan->ke62 already have fully electric vehicles on the market. In fact, Tesla’s upcoming 2016 Tesla Model X will be a hardy rival to Audi’s E-Tron Quattro. However, the Model X will likely arrive before the E-Tron Quattro, which Audi promises in “early 2018.”

Rivalry aside, this concept->ke169 is a solid look into what the future holds for Audi, both in terms of design and electronics. The sculpted exterior has hints of Audi’s current design themes with a generous portion of new flair sprinkled in. Powertrain wise, the E-Tron Quattro packs three electric motors – one up front and two in back – to move the low-slung SUV to 62 mph in a projected 4.6 seconds and onto a governed top speed of 130.5 mph.

Besides offering surprising performance, the E-Tron Quattro is filled to the brim with futuristic tech, including its charging system. There is a Combined Charging System that handles DC and AC current, a wireless induction system, and a solar panel system built onto the roof. If you’re lucky enough to find a 150-kW DC fast charger, the Audi’s battery pack can be recharged in roughly 50 minutes.

These details only scratch the surface, so keep reading for all the futuristic tech.

Updated 09/21/2015: We've added a series of new images we took at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show. Find the new images in the "Pictures" tab.

Continue reading for my full review of the E-Tron Quattro Concept.

2015 Audi E-Tron Quattro Concept

Specifications

• Make: Array
• Model: 2015 Audi E-Tron Quattro Concept
• Horsepower: 429
• Torque: 590
• [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Pros

Cons

Exterior

The E-Tron Quattro offers a fantastic view into Audi’s future design themes. The large grille now has a new shape and horizontal bars while keeping its angular design. The high belt line and low roof line keep give E-Tron Quatto a planted appearance, aided by the massive wheels and grey accents long the lower panels.

The sloping roof is covered in solar panels that offer a trickle charge into the battery system. In keeping with the energy efficient idea, the SUV uses Audi’s first example of OLED (organic LED) lighting and Matrix laser technology in both its headlights and taillights. Not only do they consume very little power, they also look fantastic.

In order to conserve electrical power while under way, Audi designers sculpted the E-Tron Quattro to have minimal drag, ultimately achieving a drag coefficient of 0.25 – much less than an average SUV this size. Helping in that endeavor are the exterior-mounted cameras that replace the side mirrors. While current governmental legislation won’t currently allow such a system, the laws can potentially be changed by 2018.

Audi’s final key to slipping through the air actually uses air. The E-Tron Quattro’s air suspension system lowers the vehicle at highway speeds to help decrease its aerodynamic footprint.

Exterior Dimensions

Interior

As futuristic as the exterior looks, it pales in comparison to the interior. The “glass cockpit” has three massive displays that help the driver keep tabs on vehicle information, entertainment options, and HVAC controls – all through the touch screens. The beautiful flat-bottom steering wheel has controls familiar with today’s current vehicles.

Sadly, this is only a concept and we have no guarantee the production version will utilize the same designs and full OLED displays.

Drivetrain

The E-Tron Quattro’s basic design caters to its all-electric powertrain. Like Tesla vehicles, the floor houses the battery systems. This keeps weight planted low and allows for a large, flat storage area. In this particular case, Audi engineers fitted the concept with a 95 kWh battery that powers three electric motors. The front axle has one motor while the rear has the other two. This gives the E-Tron Quattro AWD (hints the Quattro name) and allows for high levels of performance.

Audi says it has a maximum range of 310.7 miles when driven conservatively. When at the track or between stop lights, the E-Tron Quattro will hit 62 mph in 4.6 seconds thanks to a total electrical output of 320 kW. That translates into 429 horsepower. If that’s not enough, the E-Tron has a “boost” setting that allow 370 kW of output, or 496 horsepower for a short time. Under boost, torque output is a staggering 590 pound-feet.

Drivetrain Specifications

Competition

2016 Tesla Model X

Barring any unforeseen circumstances, Tesla will beat Audi to market with its long-promised Model X crossover. This all-electric SUV will have many of the same features found in the Model S->ke3329 sedan, include different power outputs from different battery options. Its expected range is in excess of 200 miles when driven conservatively yet can still hit 60 mph in under six seconds.

Though these stats aren’t as impressive as Audi’s, Tesla is much closer to a production version. That doesn’t mean the German automaker won’t have the E-Tron Quattro’s range and power by 2018, but it’s hard to argue with (nearly) tangible goods.

Prices for the Model X are expected to range from $82,000 to $115,000, depending on battery output.

Read our speculative review here.

Conclusion

While the E-Tron Quattro might not be hitting dealer showrooms anytime soon, the concept vehicle gives us a glimpse at what Audi is up to. The design language both inside and out gives us an idea of what to expect over the next three years, while the innovative battery, electric motor, and charging systems provide a hopeful promise for future EV technologies.

Thanks to vehicles like this, the pair from Tesla, and even more utilitarian 2016 Nissan Leaf, the future is looking bright. While enthusiasts will cling to their internal combustion engines for weekend toys (myself included), EVs can provide smart solutions to everyday travels and crowded urban environments.

Updated History

Updated 09/17/2015: The new Audi E-Tron Quattro Concept made its world debut at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Updated 09/07/2015: Audi dropped a first teaser video for its future E-tron Quattro Concept, with just one week before the official debut in Frankfurt. Enjoy!