Wankel rotary ... in an Audi concept? - Smart Car of America Forums : Smart Car Forum

**rfernatt** · 03-02-2010, 02:30 PM

Audi A1 e-tron Concept

In an interesting move, the A1 e-tron is not a pure electric vehicle but rather a plug-in hybrid equipped with a range-extending internal combustion engine. This latter component, however, is not your typical mill. Instead, it's a rotary Wankel engine mated to an electrical generator designed to top up the car’s lithium-ion batteries.

The Audi A1 e-tron can drive 31 miles on a single charge before its range-extending Wankel rotary engine needs to kick in. The extra range is 124 miles. Despite the complex drive technology, the A1 e-tron weighs in at just 2,623 pounds and is able to accelerate from 0-62 mph in a reasonable 10.2 seconds. Top speed is rated at a relatively low 81 mph, which helps preserve battery life.

forestacademy · 03-02-2010, 02:50 PM

Will they get it to market before the similar Chevy Volt? and for Less?

**rfernatt** · 03-02-2010, 02:51 PM

Maybe some tuner could do a larger version of this rotary for the smart? I bet 65hp in a 300lb kart is fast...

SUNSHINE SUPERCARS: crazy, mental good liek whoa!

Kermit · 03-02-2010, 02:53 PM

Interesting. Those rotary motors have always fascinated me though I have only owned on - a REPU.

That would be better if they could of lightened it up a bit and maybe a smaller platform but I suppose most people want bigger.

SLIVERS · 03-02-2010, 02:55 PM

So...I have a 1970's Johnson snowmobile with a wankle rotary engine in it. I wonder if it's the same engine.

chieftmc · 03-02-2010, 03:02 PM

I had a 77 mazda RX7..........I loved that rotary..........ssmmootthh power

**JPaul** · 03-02-2010, 03:08 PM

In 1970 I had a NSU Ro80, the first* mass produced rotary powered car. NSU owned the Wankel design. It later became Audi...

click to enlarge

* only the little and limited "Spyder" convertible had a rotary before.

HGB · 03-02-2010, 04:05 PM

I had a 79 Rx-7 with aftermarket turbo. That was an interesting car to say the
least. It was quick, the brakes were below par and it's exhaust stank.
The Wankel sounds like a great engine revival because it doesn't have much torque yet it's very smooth for steady rpm. It's a small compact package. I just wonder about it's consumption and pollution though?

Old smart · 03-02-2010, 05:02 PM

Rotary engines, at least to this point, are not very fuel-efficient. Given due attention, p'raps they could be better.

**JPaul** · 03-02-2010, 05:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Old smart

Rotary engines, at least to this point, are not very fuel-efficient. Given due attention, p'raps they could be better.

Is it possible that, running at a steady 5,000rpm, this one use may have a more controlled fuel consumption?
The Ro80 (see above), with its twin rotors, had a dreadful 10.7MPG! But yes, was it smooth! Especially with the electrically controlled viscous clutch.