The 2018 ABT Audi RS6-E Concept: A Pioneering Hybrid Powerhouse
As the boundaries between electric and conventional petrol-powered cars continue to blur, a glimpse into the future of high-performance hybrids is unveiled in the form of the 2018 ABT Audi RS6-E Concept. With its extraordinary combination of a hefty 1,018 HP hybrid power system and striking aesthetics, this concept is certainly more than meets the eye. It challenges our preconceptions of power and sustainability, brought to life by the combined efforts of ABT Sportsline's engineers and their passion for tuning and performance.
Hybrid Power: Combining Best of Both Worlds
The underpinning feature of the 2018 ABT Audi RS6-E Concept is its exceptional hybrid power system, which brings together the raw power of combustion engines and the silent punch of electric drives. It starts with an ABT Audi RS6 that has already been tuned to generate a whopping 730 HP (537 kW) from its internal combustion engine, thanks to the in-house developed ABT Engine Control (AEC) unit and a custom exhaust system. However, the true ace up its sleeve is the additional electric motor nestled in the transmission tunnel. This secondary source of power can boost the vehicle's rear axle performance at the press of a button, dishing out an extra 288 HP (213 kW) and 317 Nm of torque for a short burst of time. This results in a staggering total system power of 1,018 HP and 1,291 Nm.
Electric Drive: High Performance, Compact Battery
Despite the enormous power output, the electric drive of the RS6-E Concept is as efficient as it is effective. Activated on-demand at speeds above 100 km/h, the system ensures that the additional power is only used when required, thus conserving energy. The result is a compact and practical 13.6 kWh battery that delivers the desired power boost without compromise on space or weight.
Future of Tuning: Pioneering the Hybrid Revolution
In the face of increasing popularity of hybrid vehicles and alternative drives, ABT Sportsline has made a bold statement with the RS6-E Concept, a step towards a future where hybrid tuning could be the norm. Drawing on their own experience in electric mobility with the ABT e-Line and motorsports involvement, particularly in Formula E, ABT Sportsline has crafted a concept that showcases the enormous potential of next-generation hybrid power boosts.
Visual Appeal: Design for the Future
Beyond the raw performance, the RS6-E Concept commands attention with its futuristic visual appeal. Encased in a unique vehicle wrap that mimics a printed circuit board, the vehicle has a bold and forward-thinking aesthetic. Paired with a full aerodynamics package, including front lip, mirror caps, fender inserts, side skirt add-ons, and rear skirt add-ons with a rear spoiler, the concept demonstrates that a high-performance hybrid doesn't have to compromise on style. The final touches come in the form of special AERO rings on the 21-inch ABT Sport GR rims and KW suspension springs for optimal control of the vehicle's enormous power output.
A New Era: The Implications of the ABT Audi RS6-E Concept
The introduction of the ABT Audi RS6-E Concept is more than just a showcase of raw hybrid power and aesthetics. It marks the potential of a new era in the automotive industry where hybrid vehicles aren't just about environmental responsibility, but also about the thrill of the drive, speed, and high performance. As ABT Sportsline continues to push the boundaries of what's possible, one can't help but be excited about what the future of tuning and high-performance hybrid vehicles holds.
-Ed
2018 ABT Audi RS6-E Concept
