/articles/2012/02/audi-announces-electric-pilot-program

Audi will start testing its electric powertrain systems (collectively called e-tron) with select customers in pilot programs across the U.S. and Germany, the automaker announced today.

The modified Audi A3 carries a 26-kilowatt lithium-ion battery and an electric motor that will produce 199 pounds-feet of torque. Audi says the system allows for an approximate driving range of 90 miles and a top speed of 90 mph. The model will retain the interior space of the current A3, says the automaker.

The A3 e-tron will be tested by customers in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and Denver. Audi engineers want to collect data with real-world drivers to monitor how the e-tron system operates in everyday driving situations. Audi will also monitor how climate changes and driving style affects the electric car’s systems.

The program will last about a year. Audi didn’t specify how many customers would be able to join the program, what the requirements were to join or if customers pay a monthly fee for the vehicle.