When Audi unveiled the original e-tron Concept at the last Frankfurt Motor Show in 2009, a production version seemed to be nothing more than a glimmer in the very distant future. Two years later, it appears that the automaker has made plenty of progress in bringing an electric-powered R8 into the world.
Fast forward to 2011, Audi revealed a new R8 e-tron "technology demonstrator" that represents something fairly similar to the production model we'll see in the near future. Some unique visual features separate the R8 e-tron from the petrol-powered version, including the carbon fiber vents on the hood and chrome slats in the front grilles and rear bumper. Like the concept, the production version of the car is expected to feature four electric motors sending power to each wheel, with performance targets including 0-60 mph in less than five seconds and a 150 mile range.
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Thursday, September 15, 2011
Audi is calling this a concept but also says it will be produced as a limited-series edition.
This is the Audi A8 L W12 exclusive concept, powered by a 6.3 liter W12 petrol engine with 500 PS (368 kW / 493 hp) and 625 Nm (461 lb-ft) of torque.
But what's really special about this edition is the highly-refined interior finish with high-grade leathers.
The finish comes courtesy of Italian design house Poltrona Frau. The seats are upholstered in a Cognac-colored leather with highlights of granite gray piping. Wood inlays of olive ash in a light gray-brown veneer complement the additional leather finish of the dashboard, center console, door trims, seat consoles and the tunnel. Even the car's key is done-over in leather.
The sills on this special A8 come trimmed with "Audi exclusive concept" lettering. The outside of the car is painted Monsoon Gray.
Audi will make only 50 units of the A8 L W12, with each unit identified by a series number.
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