With the production model due to be revealed by the end of 2018, Audi performed an experiment at Pikes Peak to show off its world-first electrohydraulic braking system on the upcoming e-tron SUV.
Taking place on the world-famous hill climb in Colorado, the test allowed drivers to see how the e-tron recuperates energy from free-wheeling and braking to supplement the vehicle’s range – with the German brand claiming this process will contribute 30 per cent of the model’s range.
When driving, the system allows drivers to choose from three recuperation modes – manual coasting using the shift paddles, automatic coasting via the model’s predictive efficiency assist and brake recuperation between electric and hydraulic deceleration.
The shift paddles in manual coasting mode alter the level of recuperation, with the lowest level offering no extra drag torque when the foot comes off the accelerator and the highest setting severely slowing the vehicle down – meaning the driver only has to use one pedal.
Each of those options feed power back into the battery pack to contribute to the vehicles range, which Audi claims will be 248.5 miles.
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The braking system uses an innovative electrohydraulic actuation setup, which as well as collecting energy also stop the car quicker than conventional brakes. The system can also decide whether the electric motors or brakes are used to slow the car down.
The Audi e-tron will be the brand’s first all-electric production model and will go on sale at the start of 2019.
