You may remember Audi first unveiling their electric R8 at the Frankfurt Auto Show two years ago. Now the Germans are finally bringing it back as it inches even closer to production. The model seen here in the photos are the R8 e-tron production-ready car, however Audi is maintaining the ability to make some slight tweaks on the EV machine before it launches in 2012. The R8 will feature four electric motors (one for each wheel).

When used in conjunction, the motors can put out a combined 308hp and an incredible 3,319ft-lbs (actual amount) of force. Performance numbers for the production R8 e-tron are measured at 4.8 seconds for 0-60mph and a respectable range of about 155 miles. The R8 can be charged overnight from 6-8 hours, just enough time before your morning commute. A rapid charger is also available, which cuts charging time to a slim 2.5 hours. The Audi R8 e-tron concept will make its near-production debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show which begins this week in Germany.

The concept will debut alongside Audi's other models, including the S6, S7, S8 and the two other concepts the Urban and A2.