Audi has chosen the Auto Shanghai motor show to take the covers off its A3 e-tron concept, which is based on the next generation A3 saloon.

The e-tron has a 208bhp 1.4-litre TFSI petrol engine and 27bhp electric motor, offering 0-62mph in 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 144mph. Audi says the car is capable of travelling 34 miles on electric power alone and it has the option of plug-in recharging.

A seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch gearbox is used in the A3 e-tron and it tips the scales at 1,720kg on the road.

Inside, the e-tron concept uses a control panel that protrudes out to work the air conditioning, while Audi's MMI (multi media interface) works many of the other functions. This includes a wireless hotspot internet connection.

In place of the usual rev counter of the Audi A3 is a power meter to tell the driver how much battery charge is available, lighting up green and orange segments as power drops.

Although a concept at present, the A3 e-tron is a clear indication that Audi is working on a high performance hybrid version of the new A3. It's likely to go on sale some time after the new A3 launches, which is due soon in the UK.

Alisdair Suttie - 19 Apr 2011