The R8 e-tron has given a magnificent demonstration of its potential on the toughest race track in the world. The record-setting drive confirmed that we are on the right track. To us, electric mobility has never been about sacrifice, but rather is about emotion, sportiness and driving pleasure.

—Michael Dick, Audi AG Board Member for Technical Development

The R8 e-tron at the Nürburgring. Click to enlarge.

The drive system of the Audi R8 e-tron that Markus Winkelhock drove to the world record corresponds in every detail with that of the production model that will come on the market at the end of the year. Both of the car’s electric motors generate an output of 280 kW and 820 N·m (605 lb-ft) of torque; more than 4,900 N·m (3,614 lb-ft) are distributed to the rear wheels nearly from a standing start.

The Audi R8 e-tron accelerates from zero to 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds. Its top speed is normally limited to 200 km/h (124 mph); 250 km/h (155 mph) was approved for the record-setting lap.

The R8 e-tron’s rechargeable lithium-ion battery stores 49 kWh of energy – enough for a distance of about 215 kilometers (133.6 miles). Its “T” shape allows it to be installed in the center tunnel and in the area between the passenger compartment and the rear axle. It is charged by energy recovery during coasting and braking.

The ultralight car body of the Audi R8 e-tron is made primarily of aluminum, along with CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced plastic) components; the high-performance sports car weighs 1,780 kilograms (3,924 lb), despite the large battery.

In order to further underscore the production-relevance of the R8 e-tron and the capability of its drive technology, Audi set another record on the Nordschleife in addition to the single lap record time. Immediately afterwards, Markus Winkelhock drove two fast laps in one go in a second R8 e-tron that was limited to 200 km/h (124 mph). At 8:30.873 and 8:26.096 minutes, both laps were well under the nine-minute threshold.