The Audi A1 e-tron’s headline figures of 148.7 mpg fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of only 45 g/km tell only half its story.

This design study is the latest in the ‘e-tron’ model family and, like the Frankfrurt and Detroit showcars it is electronically propelled. With a range of more than 30 miles in city traffic and a peak power of 102PS the A1 e-tron is also fun to drive.

When the battery’s energy supply is exhausted, it is recharged by an exceptionally compact “range extender” consisting of a single-rotor Wankel engine and an electrical generator with a charge rating of up to 15 kW. This device gives the A1 e-tron an additional range of over 120 miles.