The concept is based on the PPE platform.
Could Audi build a true offroad EV 4×4?
The concept transforms into a pickup truck.
Audi unveiled the fourth concept vehicle in its “sphere” series this week. The latest creation from the german manufacturer – it’s called Activesphere – does not hide its main purpose: it’s clearly aimed at “active” people. And while Audi is familiar with the idea (remember the Allroad series), the Ingolstadt-based firm has never developed such a rugged-looking vehicle.
In fact, the British publication Autocar goes even further and claims that the automaker may be interested in the electric SUV niche, like the much-anticipated Mercedes-Benz EQG and Land Rover’s Defender, which will eventually be offered with an electric drivetrain as well.
What’s more, Autocar even speculatesw on the platform that would serve as the basis for this future all-purpose vehicle. In fact, according to the British magazine, the architecture of future Scout vehicles designed by Volkswagen could be found under this future Audi 4×4. But, in the meantime, here’s what’s been said about this new Audi Activesphere concept.
Like the other “sphere” vehicles, the Activesphere concept is based on the PPE (for Premium Platform Electric) platform, the architecture that will soon be used in future vehicles from Audi, but also from Porsche. We expect the Audi A6 to be the first vehicle to receive this technology.
Like most new electric vehicles today, the battery pack is integrated under the floor between the vehicle’s axles. This battery pack, with a capacity of about 100 kWh, powers the pair of electric motors that develop a total power of 325 kW (436 horsepower) and 720 Nm (or 531 ft-lb) of torque.
Since it’s a concept vehicle, the adaptive air suspension is a formality for getting over obstacles, while the five-link setup on both axles ensures reassuring handling.
With its high ground clearance, the Activesphere concept takes up two of the Ingolstadt-based automaker’s own ideas: the Audi Allroad and the Sportback body. This is why the designers describe the new combination as “active Sportback”.
The Activsphere is first and foremost a vehicle capable of racking up the miles thanks to its aerodynamic bodywork and wide tracks, while the suspension is designed to ensure comfort. But beyond this spacious interior, Audi wanted to give the vehicle a more practical side, the Activsphere which can be transformed into a small truck equipped with a cargo bed intended to accommodate a pair of electric bikes for example. Integrated into the roof, the ski rack can be deployed when the user cannot use the cargo box.
This future PPE (for Premium Platform Electric) platform will also benefit from 800-volt charging technology, which means that in the presence of an appropriate charging station, the Activesphere concept and the brand’s future electric models can regain a very interesting distance between recharges in a few minutes. According to the manufacturer, 10 minutes is enough to give the concept more than 300 kilometers of possible range. In less than 25 minutes, the 100-kWh battery can go from 5 to 80 percent of its charge. The Activesphere has an estimated range of more than 600 km, and it’s safe to assume that the new Audi EVs will offer a similar range.
We’ll see if the public reacts favorably to this idea of a raised coupe with big tires and undeniable off-road capabilities.
