Audi could halt development of the R8 e-Tron

Even though the electric vehicle market is constantly evolving and advancing, Audi could halt production of the brand’s first electric car to reach the market, as they are considering stopping development for economic reasons. In the words of development chief Wolfgang Dürheimer, a complete review of the car has been ordered.

The problem lies mainly in the fact that battery prices have not fallen as much as expected in Germany, so the final price of the R8 e-Tron would end up being excessive. For example, the new electric Mercedes SLS will cost €442,000, almost double the price of the traditional combustion version.

Moreover, this does not seem to be the only cause—although I imagine it is the one that has carried the most weight—in reaching the conclusion to halt development. According to what we have read, in recent weeks Audi has been experiencing mechanical problems with its e-Tron while running on the Nürburgring circuit, which never sounds good.

These two factors led Wolfgang Dürheimer to call for a review of the entire project so that manufacturing costs can drop and they can offer the world a simpler version. In this way, the second electric vehicle they were working on is being halted Audi, after they indefinitely cancelled the A1 e-Tron.

Via | forococheselectricos.com