Frankfurt motor show 2011 - Audi urban concepts

• Two electric concept cars
• Only 1.2 metres high
• Weight less than 500kg

The pair of Audi urban concept cars at the show are just two of a number of Frankfurt show cars that provide a glimpse of possible solutions to congested city streets.

The Audi urban concept and the Spyder open-top version are city cars designed for congested urban areas. Their bodies are made from carbonfibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) and each has protruding wheels covered by ‘protective plates’. A red strip – similar to the ‘side blades’ on Audi’s R8 supercar – features on both.

Key facts
• Length: approx. 3.20m
• Width: approx. 1.70m
• Height: approx. 1.20m
• Range: up to 60 km
• 0-37mph: approx 6.5 secs
• Maximum speed: limited to 62mph
• Weight: under 500 kg

Both cabins have a ‘1+1’ layout, with a passenger seat mounted behind and slightly to the side of the driver’s seat. There’s no adjustment for the seats, which are integrated into the car’ structure. The driver can adjust the steering wheel and pedals to get comfortable, though.

Drive comes from two electric motors, powered by a lithium-ion battery. Audi hasn’t confirmed whether production versions are likely.