Audi sent fuel-efficient passion beams into our hearts and minds yesterday at the North American International Auto Show with their ‘Audi Shooting Brake concept’. The full name appears to be the Plug-In Allroad Shooting Brake Concept (right?).
A shooting-brake for the uninformed (as we were until a few minutes ago) is an old term that originated when shooting parties needed a vehicle to haul their shotguns, quail and hunting assistants around the countryside. Over the years it became synonymous with—and then replaced by—station wagons.
Don’t be fooled, however. If you think Audi was saying, “Look, World! We’ve decided to give y’all a new station wagon!” you underestimate the automaker’s plans.
The Audi Shooting Brake Concept was actually more like three concept vehicles in one (which would explain its…distinguished…name).
- Crossover SUV (Q1 antecedent?)
- Plug-In prototype (the body will change, but the car’s gas engine and dual electric motors are likely the new powertrain)
- New TT (this one’s actually confirmed by Audi)
The hybrid engine produces a TT-worthy 408-hp and 480 lb-ft of torque. Okay, maybe not TT-worthy, but if that’s what the plug-in can do, just imagine a dedicated V-6 or V-8. In this case, the four-cylinder gas engine powers an electric motor for normal driving. A second electric motor gives extra power to the rear axle at low speeds, slippery times or off-roading.
We know, we know, so many questions, right? Check out Auto Week for more details.