The Autoblog is reporting that Audi’s eagerly-anticipated A1 e-tron extended-range hybrid will finally start hitting roads in Europe later this year, and UQM PowerPhase motors (charged by the Audi’s on-board, 254 cc Wankel rotary generator, of course) will be what’s pushing them.
UQM’s PowerPhase motors – seen here previously, driving Saab’s new 9-3 ePower EV – will be providing 102 hp through the A1 e-tron’s front wheels, along with up to 221 lb-ft of instant electric torque. Enough, in other words, to make for some spirited traffic-carving.
UQM’s full press release, below.
UQM Technologies Supplying Electric Drive Motors for Audi A1 e-tron Test-fleet Build
* Audi A1 e-tron development vehicles are powered by UQM PowerPhase® electric propulsion systems
* UQM develops and produces energy-efficient electric motors, generators and power electronic controls for electric and hybrid vehiclesUQM Technologies, Inc., will supply PowerPhase electric propulsion systems as part of an Audi test-fleet build and vehicle development process for its A1 e-tron all-electric vehicle.
“We are extremely well-positioned and prepared for growth as the electrification market continues to develop and expand.”
“This fleet order from Audi further validates the ability of our products to meet the demanding requirements of major automotive customers,” said Eric R. Ridenour, President and CEO of UQM Technologies. “We are extremely well-positioned and prepared for growth as the electrification market continues to develop and expand.”
The UQM PowerPhase engine range is a lightweight electric drive motor and controller. This power-dense, brushless, permanent-magnet engine range can be supplied with up to 300 Nm of peak torque and 125 kW of peak power. The controller features CAN bus, serial communications and diagnostic capability.
In addition to a full line of electric propulsion systems, UQM recently completed the validation of its volume production lines with annual capacity of 40,000 units.
“Our solid history in developing electric propulsion systems has enabled us to secure another major international OEM fleet build program,” said Ridenour.
Automobile manufacturers typically build test fleets to evaluate new technologies and vehicles that are under development prior to their market launch.
UQM Technologies is a developer and manufacturer of power-dense, high-efficiency electric motors, generators and power electronic controllers for the automotive, aerospace, military and industrial markets. A major emphasis for UQM is developing products for the alternative-energy technologies sector, including propulsion systems for electric, hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid electric and fuel cell electric vehicles, under-the-hood power accessories and other vehicle auxiliaries. UQM headquarters, engineering, product development center and manufacturing operation are located in Longmont, Colorado.
Source: UQM, via the Autoblog.