Metroproject Quattro Plug-In Hybrid From Audi Surprises Auto Show

Audi surprised auto show goers today by presenting the Metroproject Quattro plug-in hybrid instead of the A1.

Based on the Polo platform, the two door hatchback with seating for four is smaller than the A3 at just under 4 meters. The 1.4-liter 150 hp direct injection gasoline turbo engine drives the front wheels, while the electric motor drives the rear wheels. Driving via a dual-clutch semi-automatic transmission, they can produce 440Nm of torque delivering 0-62 mph (0-100 km per hour) in 7.8 seconds.

The electric motor (located in the trunk) is charged by the lithium-ion battery pack. The battery gets its power from a plug (think overnight recharging), regeneration from the brakes or the gas engine. By itself, the electric motor can power the vehicle for 62 miles (100 km) before needing the gas engine.

Audi says the Metroproject Quattro is rated with a top speed of 124 mph while getting 57.6 mpg or a CO2 rating of 112 g/km which is a reduction of around 15%.

There is also a touch screen system which allows the driver to fine-tune the suspension, steering and transmission. The driver can also access audio and video playback, GPS navigation and telephony services through the removable handheld. It is capable of recognizing Latin and Japanese and has handwriting recognition.