The absence of a rear window on the electric R8 e-tron renders the center mirror non-functional. And since it’s impossible for the driver to have no rearward visibility, Audi fitted a digital mirror. It is a screen that continuously receives an image from a micro camera.
The technology was successfully tested at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the R18 racers, so it made its way to production cars.
The small camera is mounted high on the back of the R8 e-tron, just below the brake stop. The camera housing is heated so there is no problem with frost, while the lens – just a few millimeters in diameter – covers a wider range than a conventional interior mirror. The image is continuously transmitted to the 7.7-inch color screen, positioned where the mirror would normally be. The R8 e-tron will be produced in 1,000 units and the first deliveries will take place at the end of the year.
The two electric motors produce 313 PS and 83.6 kgm of torque, giving acceleration from 0-100 in 4.6 sec.
Its top speed is electronically limited to 200 km/h, and the range is close to 215 km.