Audi presents its innovative aerodynamic concepts in the e-tron S

Aerodynamics is a key determining factor in range, particularly with all-electric automobiles. Thanks to Audi's smart technology innovations, the sporty e-tron S achieves a remarkably low drag coefficient figure of 0.26.

The electrically powered S models reveal their power through sporty details on the exterior - the wheel arch trims, for instance, are 23mm wider on both sides than on the basic version.

The striking design takes it cue from aerodynamics based firmly on new technologies. The car's quickly downward-sloping roof line further improves the drag coefficient compared with the sister model - particularly, a spoiler edge on its trunk lid improves the airflow direction at the rear.

The controlled airflow at the front wheels is fundamental to the aerodynamics concept. The side air inlets in the front, utilise air curtains to route air over a channel in the wheel houses to optimise the airflow to the wheels and the vehicle flank.

The airflow through the wheel arch trims serves the same purpose - narrow horizontal bars in the recesses formed by the widened trims in the front channel the airstream to surround and encapsulate disruptive swirl in the wheel houses.

The upshot is 'cleaner' airflow along the vehicle flank with reduced flow losses. For the first time, Audi is bringing this innovative, patented solution to high-volume automobile production. The future Audi e-tron S Sportback will achieve a drag coefficient of 0.26, and the Audi e-tron S' 0.28.

Compared with standard mirrors, the sleek virtual exterior mirrors also further reduce aerodynamic drag. They help improve aerodynamics by increasing range by roughly three kilometres in the Worldwide harmonised Light vehicle Test Procedure cycle.

The virtual exterior mirrors were another world first that already went into volume production in the Audi e-tron quattro. Each of their flat supports integrates a small camera at the ends. Whether driving on the highway, turning or parking, the field of view adjusts to each driving situation.

The sophisticated aerodynamics concept of the future e-tron S models continues under the vehicle floor. Here, underfloor paneling with spoiler elements cleanly routes the air around the vehicle.

The underfloor together with the aluminium cover plate for the high-voltage battery are also enclosed for reduced drag. The bolting points come with bowl-shaped indentations similar to the dimples on a golf ball, making air flow across them better than a flat surface. The standard adaptive air suspension further helps improve the aerodynamic drag at high speeds by lowering the body up to 26mm below the standard height in two stages.