Six years after the the original Audi A2 was discontinued, Audi revealed a concept version of a second-generation model at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.
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What is the Audi A2 concept?
It’s a fully-electric, lightweight four-seat hatchback, which has a similar silhouette to the original Audi A2, with a tall body and short overhangs.
As with any concept being featured at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, the list of futuristic technology is long. But, unlike many of the other concepts, the Audi A2 looks like it could become a reality soon, powered by either electric motors or conventional engines.
Why buy an Audi A2?
The A2 looks set to go head-to-head with compact but practical small cars, like the Toyota Verso-S and the Honda Jazz, however the rival most people will be comparing it to is the BMW i3, also being showcased at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show in electric form.
So what does the Audi A2 have to offer?
Other than the functionality that the original A2 was liked for, the concept car showcased by Audi has some modern technology that is due to be available across the range very soon.
Like the ‘matrix beam’ LED headlights: this is a bundle of small light-emitting diodes arranged one above the other to produce the low beam and non-glare high beam. The LEDs can be switched on and off independently, so you can customise how much forward-beam you require. The tail lights use the same technology, but with sensors that detect the quality of visibility and adapt to the safest light strength.
And the fog lights are also ultra-intelligent, made up of five laser diodes which strike water particles in the fog and rain to produce a floating red triangle in the air.
The front and rear lamps are linked up by a single beam of light running down the side of the doors from front to back. We doubt this pulsing, Knight-Rider-style feature will make it to the production car, though (sadly).
Another strong feature of the A2 concept is the contactless driving system, which almost drives the car for you in slow-moving traffic.
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What are the Audi A2 concept engine options?
The concept Audi A2 features a lithium-ion battery-powered electric motor, delivering 116bhp and 270Nm of pulling power. This results in a 0-62mph time of 9.3 seconds and a top speed of 93mph, according to Audi.
The electric motor is claimed to be good for 124 miles in total with a charge time of an hour and a half from a 400-volt charge point.
We also expect there to be a a range of petrol and diesel engines too, similar to those used in the A1 supermini.
How much will the Audi A2 cost?
No prices have been confirmed yet, however it will fit between the A1 and A3, so expect to pay around £14,000 for a conventionally-powered version. Full-electric models are likely to have a premium price tag.
When can I buy an Audi A2?
Audi claims the Audi A2 concept could become a reality in electric form by 2013.
See more cars that are appearing at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show in our comprehensive guide.
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