Rumorville: Audi to Unveil R8 Spyder and Electric-Powered R8 Concept in Frankfurt

The 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany won't be opening its doors to the members of the press and the public alike until mid-September, but we're already hearing rumors about the cars that are set to make their debut at the show. Today, German car magazine AMS reported that aside from the A5 Sportback that we've already told you about, Audi will also use the Frankfurt Show to take the covers off the long-awaited topless R8 Spyder as well as an electric-powered concept variant of the R8 coupe dubbed 'e-Version'.

The magazine does not give out any details on the R8 'e-Version' so it's unclear if the rumored sportscar concept is equipped with an all-electric drivetrain or a gasoline/diesel electric hybrid powertrain. We'd go for the latter, but better wait for something official before we run into conclusions.

As for the R8 Spyder, as reported earlier, it will feature a fully convertible fabric roof, rather than a targa panel and it will be offered with the standard 420HP 4.2-liter engine and the top-of-the-line 5.2-liter V10 with 525HP. Sales are expected to start during the first quarter of 2010.

source: http://carscoop.blogspot.com