Dynamic photo,
Colour: electric green
Audi is said to be working on its own Ludicrous Mode for its up-and-coming electric vehicles. According to CarAdvice, the German automaker is working on an electric boost function that is set to outdo Tesla’s version. The said mode allows for an instant surge of electric power upon activation. It can propel Tesla’s 2016 Model S from 0-96 km/h in 2.8 seconds and the Model X P90D from 0-100 km/h in 3.2 seconds.
The increase from 25 ampere hours to 37 ampere hours over the last three years has given Audi more reason to play around with torque delivery and acceleration. With that, Dr Peter Pilgrim, Audi’s senior scientist for lithium-ion cell development noted that the brand would be doing something along the lines of Ludicrous Mode, in regards to the use of prismatic cells.
“Yes, these cells are very low dendritic cell immunoreceptor (DCIR) cells, they are capable of a lot of power.” In that, he revealed, “yes, we will see which will be the faster car. If you want to sell cars, it’s always a challenge with other companies.” Earlier, Audi previewed its electric technology in the Audi R8 e-tron and the Audi e-tron quattro concept, which showcases the brand’s overall EV direction.
According to Dr Pilgrim, prismatic cells are preferable due to its compact nature, energy density and ability to fit up to 75% of packaging space. In comparison, Tesla uses cylindrical cells which take up only 50% of packaging space.
“It’s difficult to comment on competitors, but we think we will make a very good offer. Our target is to have the best car available and this is why we are using prismatic cells and pouch cells, for example, which are really designed for automotive use,” the scientist said adding, “we know they have a very high-cycle life and calendrical ageing, these cells are the best cells on the market.”
Not all carmakers find Ludicrous Mode appealing though. Aston Martin’s CEO, Andy Palmer for one, thought of it as “stupid.” “I think that the fact that you could drive a few laps of a decent race course or race it around the Nordschleife is much more interesting than doing 500 metres in Ludicrous Mode,” he said previously.
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Audi/Lambo/Ducati/Porsche/Bugatti probably have their own cash reserve. And some of those cash are probably in Switzerland.