The Audi PB18 e-tron is a high-performance concept car unveiled by Audi in August 2018 at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. It showcases Audi’s vision for a future all-electric sports car, blending the DNA of the R18 e-tron LMP1 race car with the daily usability of a grand tourer. The PB18, signifying “Performance Based 18” (referencing the 18th anniversary of Audi’s Le Mans victories), is not a production vehicle but a demonstrator of advanced electric vehicle technology and design. It represents a significant departure from Audi’s existing lineup, exploring the potential of solid-state batteries and a highly adaptable drivetrain.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | PB18 |
| Generation | PB18 concept |
| Type (Engine) | E-tron 95 kWh (775 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 1 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 1.9 sec |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 2 kg/Hp, 500 Hp/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 95 kWh |
| All-electric range | 500 km (310.69 mi) |
| Electric motor 1 power | 204 Hp |
| Electric motor 1 Torque | 830 Nm (612.18 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor 2 power | 238 Hp |
| Electric motor 3 power | 238 Hp |
| System power | 775 Hp |
| Kerb Weight | 1550 kg (3417.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 470 l (16.6 cu. ft.) |
| Length | 4530 mm (178.35 in.) |
| Width | 2000 mm (78.74 in.) |
| Height | 1150 mm (45.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 275/35 R22; 315/30 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 22 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The PB18 e-tron utilizes a fully electric powertrain, employing three electric motors – one on the front axle and two on the rear. The front motor delivers 204 horsepower, while the two rear motors each produce 238 horsepower, resulting in a combined system output of 775 horsepower. This configuration allows for a sophisticated torque vectoring system, enhancing handling and stability. The powertrain is powered by a 95 kWh solid-state battery pack, positioned low in the vehicle’s chassis to lower the center of gravity and improve handling. Solid-state battery technology, while still under development at the time of the PB18’s unveiling, promises higher energy density and improved safety compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries. The single-speed automatic transmission is a direct drive system, typical of electric vehicles, maximizing efficiency and delivering instant torque.
Driving Characteristics
The PB18 e-tron’s performance is truly remarkable. Audi claims a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration time of just 2 seconds, and 0-60 mph in 1.9 seconds, making it comparable to some of the fastest hypercars in the world. The rear-wheel drive configuration, combined with the torque vectoring capabilities of the three electric motors, provides exceptional agility and control. The low center of gravity, thanks to the battery pack’s placement, further enhances handling. The concept car’s adjustable wheelbase – capable of extending by 250mm – allows for adaptation between a more focused, track-oriented setup and a more comfortable, grand touring configuration. The single-speed transmission provides seamless acceleration, delivering instant torque across the entire speed range.
Equipment & Trim Levels
As a concept car, the PB18 e-tron’s interior is focused on showcasing advanced technology and design rather than offering a traditional trim level structure. The cabin features a minimalist design with a focus on driver engagement. The dashboard is dominated by a wide, curved display that integrates the instrument cluster and infotainment system. The seats are sculpted for optimal support and comfort, and the interior materials are a blend of premium leather, carbon fiber, and aluminum. The concept car includes advanced driver-assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The single seat configuration emphasizes the car’s focus on the driving experience.
Chassis & Braking
The PB18 e-tron utilizes a lightweight multi-material chassis construction, incorporating aluminum and carbon fiber to minimize weight and maximize rigidity. The suspension system features double wishbones at both the front and rear, providing precise control and a comfortable ride. Large ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels provide ample stopping power, and the car is equipped with an advanced anti-lock braking system (ABS). The tires are specially developed 275/35 R22 front and 315/30 R22 rear tires, designed to maximize grip and handling performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi PB18 e-tron was widely praised by automotive critics for its bold design, innovative technology, and exceptional performance. It was seen as a statement of intent from Audi, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to electric mobility and high-performance vehicles. Compared to other electric hypercars of the time, such as the Rimac Concept One and the Pininfarina Battista, the PB18 stood out for its more understated design and its focus on blending performance with everyday usability. The concept’s adjustable wheelbase was also a unique feature, setting it apart from its competitors. While not directly comparable to production models due to its concept status, it previewed technologies and design elements that would later influence Audi’s e-tron GT.
Legacy
The Audi PB18 e-tron remains a significant concept car in the automotive world. While it never reached production, it served as a valuable platform for Audi to explore and refine its electric vehicle technology. The concept’s design language and technological innovations influenced the development of the Audi e-tron GT, a high-performance electric grand tourer that entered production in 2021. The PB18’s exploration of solid-state battery technology continues to be a focus of research and development within the automotive industry. Today, the PB18 e-tron is remembered as a bold and visionary concept car that helped shape the future of electric performance vehicles.
