The Quattro myth is said to live on in the electrical age. In addition to an electric motor above the front axle, the new top model e-tron S has two more in the rear, each of which is responsible for one rear wheel. Strictly speaking, the new e-tron has two instead of a front engine, but at the rear. Explanation follows. In any case, especially for sporty pilots, there is a driving experience that is in no way inferior to that of the classic all-wheel drive quattros and is even superior.
The aprons at both ends are still colored in MA-48 orange, as are the side sills. The masquerade is completed by geometric silver shapes on the otherwise dark gray paint. Nevertheless, there is nothing mysterious about it. The long-legged prototype is clearly recognizable as the Audi e-tron electric SUV, as the Sportback variant with the sloping rear. The really new thing is well hidden under the sheet. This is where the first electric Audi turns, which thanks to its new technology drives like a classic Quattro.
The competitors would have been without a chance
Stig Blomqvist will be 74 years old in July, no helmet hides the silver-gray hair ring, he sits relaxed at the wheel and keeps an eye on the digital displays. He rages over a rain-soaked practice course in Neuburg near Ingolstadt, where Audi otherwise teaches wealthy customers how to use their fast cars correctly. In 1984 the Swedish rally world champion. On an Audi Quattro, of course. With a grin, he says today between two tight bends: “If I had had a car like that at the time, all the competitors would have had no chance.”
The Audi e-tron is of course not comparable to the cult vehicle from back then, even if it already had sophisticated all-wheel technology on board. Permanent all-wheel drive, middle and rear differential locks against the uninhibited spinning of the wheels on slippery terrain or in curves. All-wheel drive was once only found in off-road vehicles. Since 1971, thanks to Subaru, then also in sedans or coupes, and from 1980 Audi really introduced him to the Quattro.
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