Audi unveiled a powerful new generation of SQ5 TDI today.  With 516 lb-ft of torque, this diesel rips to 100 kph (62mph) in just 5.1 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. 

At the heart of the SQ5 is a new mild-hybrid 3.0 liter V6 TDI with an Electric Powered Compressor (EPC).  The EPC assists the turbocharger at times when the exhaust flow is to slow to drive the turbocharger. The full 516 ft-lbs of torque is made available from 2,500 rpm to 3,100 rpm.  A 48 volt mild-hybrid belt alternator-start system helps with the automatic engine start/stop. The automatic start/stop is also integrated with the adaptive cruise control (when equipped) so that the engine restarts as soon as the car ahead begins to move.

Quattro all-wheel drive comes standard and it feeds power from an 8-speed tiptronic transmission.  The transmission is able to disengage the engine while coasting so the automatic start/stop can shut down power. An electric oil pump allows the transmission to engage the next gear needed while coasting with the engine off. 

The Quattro system comes with a self-locking center differential that splits torque front/rear in a 40:60 ratio.  If slippage is detected, power is redirected to the axle with better traction up to 70% to the front and 85% to the rear. Buyers can also option up to a sport differential which actively distributes power between the rear wheels during sporty driving by sending more torque to the outside rear wheel while accelerating to improve agility.

The Audi SQ5 will hit dealerships in Germany in Summer 2019 with a base price of 67,750€ , about $76,898.  While we in the US get the gasoline version of the SQ5, Audis recent diesel troubles mean the TDI version is unlikely to come to the states. 

Audi Press Release on Page 2

The new Audi SQ5 TDI: Instant performance thanks to electric powered compressor

700 Nm (516.3 lb-ft) of torque, output 255 kW (347 hp): The new Audi SQ5 TDI* once again has a powerful V6 engine under the hood, just like its successful predecessor of the first generation. An electric powered compressor ensures that maximum torque is available to the sporty SUV at just above idle; a mild hybrid system further enhances efficiency.

Audi is expanding its Traffic Light Information system to now include speed recommendations to minimize stops.  Audi is the first manufacturer to launch Green Light Optimized Speed Advisory (GLOSA) in the U.S. 

GLOSA uses the position of the vehicle and traffic signal information to display a speed recommendation on the dash to reduce the number of stops at red lights.  The distance to the stop, signal timing, and speed limit are all combined to produce an optimized speed.

Over 4,700 intersections in 13 U.S. metro areas support the technology. 

Select 2017 and 2018 and newer models use an onboard 4G LTE connection to monitor live traffic signal information. When the light is red, the system will display a Time-to-Green indicator on the dash. 

In future, this Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) technology could be used to optimize navigation routing, vehicle start/stop function, and other predictive services to reduce traffic congestion.

Audi press release on page 2.

Audi expands Traffic Light Information - now includes speed recommendations to minimize stops

Yesterday, Volkswagen terminated the contract of Audi CEO Rupert Stadler. Since June, Stadler has been in prison due to possible  evidence tampering concerning the diesel emission scandal. As we reported last week, Volkswagen's supervisory board was expected to make a decision on Stadler's future, but couldn't come to an agreement.

"Mr. Stadler is leaving the companies with immediate effect and will no longer work for the Volkswagen Group. Mr. Stadler is doing so because, due to his ongoing pretrial detention, he is unable to fulfil his duties as a member of the board of management and wishes to concentrate on his defence. The contractual execution depends on the course and outcome of the criminal proceedings," the company said in a statement.

The last line in the statement is very important. According to German business paper Handelsblatt, Stadler could receive up a 7 million euro ($8 million) payout if he is cleared of any involvement in the diesel emission scandal.

Source: Volkswagen, Handelsblatt

Rupert Stadler leaves Volkswagen AG and AUDI AG boards of management

The supervisory boards of Volkswagen AG and AUDI AG have today consented to the conclu-sion of an agreement with Rupert Stadler on the termination of his offices as a member of the board of management of Volkswagen AG and chairman of the board of management of AUDI AG as well as of his service agreements. Mr. Stadler is leaving the companies with immediate effect and will no longer work for the Volkswagen Group. Mr. Stadler is doing so because, due to his ongoing pretrial detention, he is unable to fulfil his duties as a member of the board of management and wishes to concentrate on his defence. The contractual execution depends on the course and outcome of the criminal proceedings.

Rupert Stadler began working for AUDI in 1990 and has worked for the Volkswagen Group ever since. He joined the board of management of AUDI AG on 1 January 2003 and was made chairman on 1 January 2007. He was also appointed to the board of management of Volkswagen AG on 1 January 2010.

September has become electric-vehiclepalooza as various automakers have revealed either production or concept electric vehicles. Audi is the latest automaker to join this as last night, they unveiled the 2019 e-tron crossover.

Unlike the Jaguar I-Pace or Mercedes-Benz EQ C, the e-tron looks very conventional. The basic shape, grille, and lighting fits in line with Audi's other crossovers. There are some little touches that reveal this isn't your normal crossover such as the closed-off grille and aerodynamically optimized 20-inch alloy wheels. One item that the U.S. version will miss out on are the cameras that take the place of the side-view mirrors. Audi is working with regulators to get approval for them.

The interior is instantly recognizable as an Audi with a modern design for the dash and dual-screen layout for the infotainment. One interesting touch is the uniquely styled wrist-rest on the center console that has a toggle on the edge for switching gears.

The e-tron's drive system is comprised of two electric motors, one powering each axle. Audi hasn't published official power figures for the e-tron, but said it will hit 60 mph in 5.5 seconds and onto a top speed of 124 mph. Audi will also be offering a towing package for the e-tron that will allow it to tow a max amount of 4,000 pounds. Depending on the load, the e-tron can be driven on just the rear motor. The front motor will kick on when more power is needed or the quattro system detects a loss of traction.

A 95-kWh battery pack sits between the two electric motors. Audi hasn't revealed range for the U.S. e-tron, but did say the European-market version will travel up to 248 miles based on WTLP testing. All e-trons will come with a home charger that can support charging via 120-volt or 240-volt outlets. The model also supports DC fast charging via the SAE Combo plug and will be the first vehicle that can take advantage of 150 kW charging - currently the max amount is 90 kW on the SAE Combo plug. Audi is partnering with Electrify America (the company set up by Volkswagen as part of the diesel emission settlement) to provide 1,000 kWh of no-cost charging to e-tron buyers. Electrify America is planning to build out 500 charging stations throughout 40 states and 17 metro areas. 

Pricing for the e-tron is as followed,

• Prestige: $75,795
• Prestige Plus: $82,795
• Edition One: $87,695

All prices include a $995 destination charge. Audi says the e-tron will be eligible for $7,500 Federal tax credit.

Those interested in picking up an e-tron can head down to their Audi dealer to pre-order one a place $1,000 deposit. Deliveries are expected to begin next spring.

Source: Audi

Electric goes Audi: all-electric Audi e-tron SUV unveiled and available for US customers to place reservations

• First all-electric, fastest charging Audi e-tron SUV makes global debut and is available for customers to place reservations
• Audi e-tron is a spacious five-seater, electric mid-sized premium SUV that is very well equipped to meet premium buyer expectations
• Innovative battery design engineered for repeatable performance, longevity, and safety as well as highest levels of Audi infotainment and driver assistance systems
• Customers can enjoy the convenience of exclusive home charging installation through Amazon Home Services and complimentary 1000 kWh of charge powered by Electrify America.

HERNDON, Va., September 17, 2018 – With the introduction of the Audi e-tron, the Audi brand presents its first fully electric production model. The mid-size SUV is electrified, performance oriented and fit for every aspect of daily life. In combination with a comprehensive range of available charging solutions for home and on the move, customers can enjoy fully electric driving without compromise.

The Audi e-tron is an electric SUV for sport, family and leisure. It is 193 inches long, 76.3 inches wide and 65.5 inches high. It offers the spaciousness and comfort commensurate with an Audi. With a wheelbase of 115.1 inches, the Audi e-tron has ample space for five occupants and cargo. The total luggage capacity is 28.5 cu ft. (57.0 cu ft. seats down), equipping the electric SUV for short jaunts and long road trips.

Electrification visualized: the exterior design

The Audi e-tron reflects the fundamental idiom of Audi design – translated into the electric age by new, stylistically refined aerodynamically focused details. Consistent with one of the brand’s SUV models, the Audi e-tron bears the octagonal-design Singleframe grille with vertical struts. Its uniquely enclosed grille is presented in platinum gray – identifying it as a fully electric model. At the lower edge of the standard LED headlights, four horizontal struts, reminiscent of a charging status indicators, create the e-tron-specific signature in the daytime running lights. For the first time this is integrated directly into the headlights. Light is used as a signature design feature.

Another important design element is the continuous shoulder line. It extends from the headlights, along the flanks, to the rear lights, giving the Audi e-tron a sense of stature and presence. The expressive design approach of the sill area with the black inserts on the door trim visualizes the location of the battery and thus the energy center of the Audi e-tron. Meanwhile, the roof stretches across the muscular body, which displays clear SUV attributes with its quattro blisters over the wheels and prominent D-pillars.

At the sculptural rear, the long roof spoiler and wide diffuser accentuate the sporty look. One distinct element on the e-tron is the light strip connecting the LED rear taillights, consistent with the brand’s D segment offerings including the Audi A7, A8 and Q8. With their horizontal emphasis, the tail lights echo the graphics of the daytime running lights that are graphical representation of full battery charge. Meanwhile the four cross-slats in the diffuser draw attention to the absence of tailpipes, another reference to the fully electric drive.

Every detail matters: aerodynamics and efficiency

When developing the Audi e-tron, the exterior designers worked in close collaboration with the aerodynamics experts. The result of this attention to aero is an array of high-tech efficiency solutions, such as the regulated cooling air inlet with ducts for cooling the front brakes and the adaptive, speed-dependent air suspension that is standard on the Audi e-tron. The standard-fit 20-inch wheels are aerodynamically optimized and fitted with 255/50 tires. These are especially engineered for their ultralow rolling resistance. The fully clad underbody including aluminum plate to help protect the high-voltage battery likewise plays a vital role in lowering drag. The screw connection points are recessed to deliberately create minor vortices so that the air flows even better.

In addition to aerodynamics, thermal management has an important role to play. The standard equipped heat pump uses the waste heat from the electrical components – up to 3 kW of the actual power loss are used for cabin heating and air conditioning as well as cooling the electric motor. Depending on ambient temperature, the heat pump’s design at can help contribute to the Audi e-tron range by up to ten percent. Highly flexible thermal management also allows fast direct-current charging to help maintain a long battery operating life and repeatable road performance.

Sporty efficiency: drive and recuperation

From high-efficiency to high-performance – the particularly appealing component of the Audi e-tron’s drive is its breadth. The two electric motors accelerate the e-tron from 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 124 mph.  The advantage of the electric motor is felt especially in its impressive off-the-line starting performance from a standstill. The maximum drive torque is reached in 250 milliseconds – a performance worthy of a sports car. US horsepower and torque figures will be available closer to launch.

The two asynchronous motors (ASM) of the Audi e-tron are especially robust. Their sophisticated cooling concept is designed to keep the temperature level low. Single-stage transmissions transfer the torque to the axles via the differentials. Each motor is supplied by power electronics that act in close consort with the powertrain control unit. When the Audi e-tron is traveling at moderate speeds, in the interest of efficiency it is powered mainly by the rear motor. When coasting, the motors operate free from magnetic drag torque – another strength of ASM technology.

The Audi e-tron uses an innovative recuperation system encompassing both electric motors, to boost efficiency. On average, our engineers estimate that this system is responsible for as much as 30 percent of the e-tron’s range depending on the conditions, terrain and driving style. The electric SUV can recover energy in two ways: by means of coasting recuperation when the driver releases the accelerator, or by means of braking recuperation by depressing the brake pedal. When pressing the brake pedal, the electronic control unit computes within milliseconds how much pressure the system needs to build up for the specific braking process required. A high-performance electric motor supplies the necessary energy. The integrated brake control system is approximately 30 percent lighter than a conventional system thanks to its more compact design. The conventional vacuum pump is no longer needed in this configuration.

According to the driving situation, the brake control system decides whether to use the electric motors as alternators or to use the friction brakes – all without the driver noticing. Up to 0.3 g, the Audi e-tron is decelerated solely by the electric motors – that covers over 90 percent of braking scenarios. So energy is returned to the battery in practically all normal braking instances. Above this deceleration value, for example in a full brake application, the friction brakes come into play. Thanks to a newly designed electro-hydraulic activation principle, they are particularly quick to respond. The driver can select the degree of energy recovery in three stages by means of paddles on the steering wheel. In the lowest setting, the Audi e-tron glides with no additional braking torque. At the highest stage the electric SUV is slowed more noticeably – the driver can slow down and accelerate solely via the acceleration pedal, if desired. This creates what is referred to as a one-pedal feeling.

The efficiency assist additionally promotes an economical driving style by prompting the driver when he should move his foot off of the accelerator pedal. It does this by using the navigation system’s route data, radar information and camera images, Depending on the traffic situation the predictive system makes the Audi e-tron slow down proactively and in turn, recuperate.

Strong performance on a variety road surfaces: electric all-wheel drive and suspension

In the Audi e-tron, the brand introduces a new generation of quattro drive as standard: electric all-wheel drive. This new system enables the electric SUV to achieve optimum traction in a variety of weather conditions and on challenging road surfaces. In a similar way to the mechanical quattro with ultra technology, the second axle – in this case, the one at the front – can be connected predictively. This happens if the driver requests more power than the rear electric motor can supply, or predictively even before grip noticeably declines in wintery conditions or in dynamic cornering. The electric motors are an ideal power source for the high-precision, ultrafast electric quattro. Torque can be controlled spontaneously – the output can be redistributed between the axles within a fraction of a second.

Towards the limits of driving dynamics, torque vectoring enhances handling by means of brief wheel brake applications. The dynamic talents of the Audi e-tron are especially apparent on a low-friction surface, such as snow. For the first time in the e-tron, the quattro torque vectoring are integrated on the central suspension controller, distributing the torque with a slight rear bias.

The innovative traction control regulates wheel slip by the millisecond directly via the electric motors’ power electronics. The powertrain control unit is integrated with the built-in brake control system and helps maintain an optimum power flow between tires and road surface. Together with the electric all-wheel drive, this produces the high traction and directional stability that are typical of an Audi. This is especially evident in the four-stage Electronic Stabilization Control, which offers the “sport” and “offroad” modes and can also be fully turned off when desired.

The SUV’s driving character can be adjusted with the standard Audi drive select across seven profiles – from comfortable, through efficient, to distinctively sporty – according to the driving situation, road condition or personal requirements. Some of the modes also influence the standard air suspension with adaptive dampers.

Depending on road speed and driving style the suspension adjusts the body’s ride height by up to 76 millimeters (3.0 in). Especially on long journeys, a lower ride height improves the air flow around the body, thus helping to increase range. In the “offroad” mode, the Audi e-tron is primed for driving away from paved roads: Its ground clearance is increased by 35 millimeters (1.4 in) compared with the standard level. If the driver activates the additional function “Raise” in Audi drive select, the body can adapt to another 15 millimeters (0.6 in) higher.

The electric SUV is both uniquely dynamic and stable in changing driving conditions. The low position of the drive components helps in that regard: The battery system is optimally matched to the dimensions of the Audi e-tron body and is located between the axles in the form of a flat, broad block beneath the passenger compartment. That places the Audi e-tron’s center of gravity a few centimeters lower down than in a conventional SUV.

The axle load distribution is balanced at approximately 50:50, and self-steering behavior is neutral. The front and rear suspensions take the form of five-link designs. The standard progressive steering adjusts its ratio according to steering angle and provides speed-dependent assistance. The further the steering is turned, the more direct it becomes – this helps make the vehicle agile and precise to move with little effort. This advantage comes into play in city driving and for tight maneuvering.

The optionally available trailer tow hitch can increase the Audi e-tron’s versatility, for example as a sport and leisure vehicle. When equipped with the tow package, the Audi e-tron has a maximum tow rating of 4000 lbs. It can also be used for mounting a cycle carrier, for example.

95 kWh of energy: the high-voltage battery system

The battery system in the Audi e-tron is located beneath the cabin and is 2.28 meters (90 inches) long, 1.63 meters (63.6 inches) wide and 34 centimeters (13.4 in) high. It comprises a total of 36 cell modules in square aluminum housings, each of which is roughly the size of a shoe box. They are arranged on two levels, known as “floors” –a longer lower floor and a shorter upper one. At market launch, each module is equipped with twelve pouch cells having a flexible outer skin of aluminum-coated polymer. The battery operates with a nominal voltage of 396 volts and stores 95 kWh of energy.

A cooling system of flat aluminum extruded sections divided uniformly into small chambers has the task of maintaining the battery’s high-performance operation over the long term. Heat is exchanged between the cells and the cooling system beneath them via a thermally conductive gel pressed beneath each cell module. In what is a particularly resourceful solution, the gel evenly transfers the waste heat to the coolant via the battery housing.

A strong surround frame and lattice-type aluminum structure that holds the cell modules is designed to protect the battery block. A substantial aluminum plate provides protection against damage from flying stones or curbs, for instance. These measures demonstrate how the Audi engineers have developed the batter and cooling systems with safety in mind. The weight of the battery system including the housing pan with intricate crash structures is roughly 700 kilograms (1543.2 lb). It is bolted to the underbody of the Audi e-tron at 35 points. This increases the torsional rigidity of the body, which in turn integrates numerous aluminum parts such as the floor plate in the rear structure, the doors, as well as the hood and tailgate. The cabin features components made from heat-formed ultra-high-strength steel.

At up to 150 kW: charging on the move and at home

Designed for efficiency and integration, the e-tron is engineered for both AC and DC charging via the widespread SAE J1772 and Combined Charging System (CCS) standards. In an industry first to-date, the e-tron debuts a DC fast charging capability of up to 150 kW available at select high-speed public charging stations, this capability can deliver up-to an 80 percent charge in only approximately 30 minutes.  For customers’ residential charging needs, a standard 9.6 kW AC capsule charger (Level 2, 240-volt/40 amps) is provided and designed to deliver a fresh charge overnight. This charger will include plugs that can utilize both a standard 120-volt household outlet (1.2 kW) as well as a fast-speed 240-volt NEMA 14-50 outlet (9.6 kW).

Audi e-tron buyers will have the opportunity to ready their homes for their all-electric SUV with available Amazon Home Services in the first-ever home charging collaboration between Amazon and an automaker. “Audi Home Charging powered by Amazon Home Services” offers e-tron buyers a fully-digital experience for in-home electric vehicle charging installations, designed to make the process of home charging set up as easy as ordering the millions of others items and services U.S. customers depend on from Amazon.

Furthermore, customers can define their own personal priorities, such as charging when electricity is less expensive where available. With the myAudi app, it can be accessed from the convenience of the home. It can be used to plan, control, and monitor the charging and pre-heating/-cooling of the electric SUV. The customer can set a departure time, for example, so that the Audi e-tron is charged and/or heated/cooled at the desired time. Customers can even choose to heat or cool certain zones in the car. On cold winter days, for example, customers can turn on the optional seat heating. The app also displays charging and driving data.

For charging on the go, the e-tron will be supported by a nationwide charging network, “Powered by Electrify America.” By July 2019, this network will include nearly 500 fast-charging sites complete or under development throughout 40 states and 17 metro areas. Offering advanced charging, Electrify America’s chargers are capable of delivering up to 350kW. With the purchase of the Audi   e-tron customers will receive 1,000 kWh of charging at Electrify America sites over four years of ownership.

Place of relaxation: the interior

The interior of the Audi e-tron represents performance, intelligence and lightness – attributes that are manifested in an array of details. A generous arc, the wraparound dash, envelops the stepped dashboard as far around as the sculptural door trims. The entire cabin has a strong driver orientation and in addition to the central Audi virtual cockpit featuring a slim, visually free-standing display, the two MMI touch response displays are angled towards the pilot. When off, the upper screen blends almost invisibly into the large black-panel surface. In clear contrast, the lower display sits on the broad center console. The central tunnel rests on open side panels and incorporates a storage compartment, cup holders as well as the standard Audi phone box for inductive smartphone charging. This solution combines lightness with functionality. The hand rest that incorporates the gear selector appears to float above the console. The driver selects the drive position in a one-touch action with a movement of the thumb and index finger.

In every equipment line, the interior of the Audi e-tron presents exceptional upholstery materials, colors, and inlays. The Audi e-tron meets our highest quality standards in terms of interior build quality and choice of materials such as the available Valcona leather seats or the natural wood inlays. The stitching on the seats creates a motif that evokes the precision of electric circuit boards.

Typically full-size: spacious and comfortable

Not only does the interior have an airy design, it genuinely offers ample space. The Audi e-tron offers excellent interior packaging –interior length, second-row leg room, and headroom front and rear provide comfortable seating for five adults. In the rear, there is a flat plateau instead of the center tunnel usually found in conventional models –resulting in additional space.

The luggage capacity totals 28.5 cu ft, including an additional handy storage compartment beneath the front lid. This storage space is designed to accommodate the vehicle tool kit and mobile charging cable. With the rear seat backs folded down, the Audi e-tron has up to 57.0 cu ft of luggage space. The tailgate can be opened and closed electrically as standard for ease of loading, and can be operated by a foot gesture when the key is in your pocket or purse.

As well as the car’s spaciousness, its standard of comfort and convenience is what you would expect from a typical Audi. The standard panoramic glass sunroof helps keep the interior bright and intensifies the impression of airiness and space. In addition, four-zone automatic air conditioning is standard with the option for available air quality package. The latter helps to maintain premium air quality by means of an ionizer and aromatization, the intensity of which can be adjusted over several levels. Multi-adjustable customized contour front seats with massage function are available as well. The available contour/ambient lighting package creates highlights after dark: It illuminates surfaces softly, edges sharply, and also back-lights the e-tron badge on the dashboard.

A new level: acoustics and sound

With its combination of electric drive and a comfortable, sophisticated interior, the Audi e-tron creates a new feeling for mobility. Especially when driving in the city, it radiates an almost perfect sense of calm. The only sounds are from its tires and the gentle hum of the electric motors.

The body has special soundproofing in all zones that could transmit noise interference and help reduce wind vibrations. This makes the Audi e-tron the perfect platform for the standard Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with 3D sound in the front. It allows the music to be enjoyed precisely how it was recorded.

Digital world: operation and displays

In keeping with the all-new Audi C and D segment portfolio, the Audi e-tron features the MMI touch response operating system. Its two large, high-resolution displays – the upper one with a diagonal of 10.1 inches and the lower one 8.6 inches – take the place of almost all conventional switches and controls. Operation is swift and simple: When the finger activates a function, it triggers a tactile and acoustic click by way of confirmation. The few remaining buttons, for example for the lights, are also available with touch response technology if desired.

In the upper display, the driver controls the infotainment, telephone, navigation, and special e-tron settings – this allows the activation of a charging timer or specifying the type of desired recuperation, for example. In the lower screen text input, comfort function selections and the HVAC are all managed with the wrist resting comfortably on the gear selector lever with integrated support. The menu structure is intuitively logical and flat like on a smartphone, including freely configurable favorites and start screens.

In addition, the driver can activate a wide range of functions using natural language recognition. Information on destinations and media is either available on board or can be delivered from the cloud at LTE speed. The system understands spoken commands; the dialog manager asks questions if necessary, allows corrections, offers choices, and also defers to the speaker when interrupted.

Alexa has been fully integrated into the MMI system and is on board for customers to access the many of the same features and services in the Audi e-tron as they can in their home or through other Alexa-enabled devices. You can check news, weather and sports scores, order groceries and add things to your to-do list, stream music and audiobooks via Audible, Amazon Music and TuneIn. And you access the wide variety of Alexa skills. And with smart home controls, you can lock the doors, turn off the lights, and close the garage door directly from the vehicle – all you have to do is ask.

The digital display and operating concept in the Audi e-tron is rounded off by the standard feature of the Audi virtual cockpit, which can be operated from the multifunction steering wheel. Its display benefits from the very high resolution of 1,920 x 720 pixels and new e-tron-specific graphics. The driver can choose between three views: In the classic view, the power meter and speedometer are presented as large dials; in the infotainment view, they appear smaller and the focus is on the navigation map. Additionally, with the standard Audi virtual cockpit plus an additional view is shown that puts the power meter center stage. The head-up display complements the displays as an option. It projects important information straight onto the windscreen.

Top-caliber connectivity: navigation, Audi connect

The Audi e-tron is equipped with MMI Navigation plus as standard. The top-end media center supports the high-speed data transmission through LTE Advanced with integrated Wi-Fi hotspot for passengers’ mobile devices through a 6-month unlimited Audi connect PLUS trial subscription. The navigation system can make predictive destination suggestions based on previous journeys. The route is calculated both on-board in the car and online on the servers of the map and navigation provider HERE, using real-time data for the overall traffic conditions.

The online services of Audi connect PRIME ideally complement the navigation system, especially the e-tron route planner. The customer can use it either in the in-car MMI touch system or in the myAudi app. In both cases they are shown the suggested route with the available charging points. The navigation system considers not only the battery’s charge but also the traffic conditions and includes the required charging time in its arrival time calculation. The e-tron route planner provides charge locations as part of the route planning.

Arrive more relaxed with comprehensive driver assistance systems

Whether parking, in the city or on long journeys, the Audi e-tron can make life easier for its driver in life’s many situations. The system at the heart of the optional Driver Assistance Package is adaptive cruise assist, which comfortably provides longitudinal and lateral control in traffic jams or at highway speeds. It supports the driver with accelerating, braking, maintaining speed, keeping distance. The system can detect lane markings, roadside structures, vehicles in adjacent lanes and vehicles driving ahead. In construction zones, the Audi e-tron automatically adapts its speed to the traffic situation, taking into account the speed limit. If the lane is too narrow to allow side-by-side driving, adaptive cruise assist enables offset driving through narrow stretches. In conjunction with efficiency assist it predictively slows down and accelerates the Audi e-tron based on its evaluation of sensor and navigation data as well as road signs. It automatically adjusts to the current speed limit, reduces the speed before corners, during turning and on roundabouts. The system can maintain a driving style that reflects the driving program selected – from every day to sporty.

Driver assistance features for urban areas include intersection assist, rear cross traffic assist as well as lane change and vehicle exit warning. The 360 degree cameras provide multiple views to facilitate centimeter-precision maneuvering, while showing crossing traffic. The 3D view with freely selectable perspective is the highlight. Park steering assist eases the parking process. It steers the Audi e-tron independently into parallel parking and perpendicular parking spaces – forward or backward. The driver only has to accelerate, select the gear and brake.

Operating as standard behind the driver assistance systems in the Audi e-tron is the central driver assistance controller. It continuously computes a differentiated picture of the surroundings. The required data is obtained – depending on the selected options – from up to five radar sensors, six cameras, twelve ultrasound sensors and the laser scanner.

e-tron Reservation System

Accompanying the debut of the e-tron, customers are now able to configure their e-tron and reserve their vehicle with a fully refundable $1,000 reservation fee ahead of delivery in mid-2019.

This new Audi reservation system is part of how Audi of America will create a digital ecosystem for Audi owners to confidently go electric. After customers place a reservation, they will be able to track it online and with their local dealer.

As an electric SUV that includes integrated digital tools, in-home charging solutions, and the support of Audi of America’s 303 dealer partners —e-tron owners can confidently choose electric performance knowing they have the support of a full Audi ecosystem.

Pricing & Equipment:

The Audi e-tron is being will arrive in the US during the 2nd quarter of 2019. The entry Premium Plus trim is very well equipped to appeal to premium buyers and make going electric easier than ever. Available premium equipment such as available massage and cooled seats no longer need to be left out when going electric.  

To celebrate our first electric vehicle, we are introducing a limited build First Edition model in the US, with only 999 units making their way to the US market. The special equipment combination includes Daytona Gray exterior, 21-inch bi-color Black wheels, Alu-Optic exterior trim complemented by Dynamic orange brake calipers matching the Dynamic orange highlights surrounding the e-tron nameplate lettering located near the charge port. The interior is further elevated from the standard e-tron offering through Black Valcona leather with gray contrast stitch and Volcano Gray Ash Natural Wood inlays.

Model year 2019 e-tron manufacturer suggested retail prices are listed below:

Prices listed are the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices and do not include destination and delivery ($995), taxes, title, options, and dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price.

Production and U.S. Market launch

The Audi e-tron will be manufactured in the brand new Audi Brussels facility, which was certified as CO2 neutral by the Belgian testing company Vincotte and will begin deliveries in the U.S. market in the 2nd quarter of 2019.

The past few years has seen a number of automakers introduce new and concept vehicles at Pebble Beach. Audi is the latest automaker to join the fray with the introduction of the PB18 e-tron concept.

Audi describes the PB18 e-tron as a "high-performance sports car of tomorrow." It looks like a mashup of the R8 supercar and the R18 Le Mans racer. One interesting trait is around back with a large glass tailgate. A set of 22-inch turbine wheels hide a set of 19-inch carbon disc brakes. The interior has a clever trick as it can be arranged to be a single seater or or two seater. This is due to a motorized sliding cockpit module and drive-by-wire controls for the steering and brakes. 

“We want to offer the driver an experience that is otherwise available only in a racing car like the Audi R18. That’s why we developed the interior around the ideal driver’s position in the center. Nevertheless, our aim was to also give the PB 18 e-tron a high degree of everyday usability, not just for the driver, but also for a potential passenger,” said Gael Buzyn, Head of the Audi Design Loft in Malibu, California.

Three electric motors provide the motivation for the PB18 e-tron. Total output is rated at 500 kW (670 horsepower) with an overboots function providing 570kW (about 764 horsepower). 0-60 mph is said to take around two seconds. A 95-kWh solid state battery provides the juice for the motors. Total range is said to be around 310 miles. Using an 800-volt charger, the PB18 e-tron only takes 15 minutes to recharge. 

The body is a mix of aluminum, carbon fiber, and composites. Overall weight comes to 3,147 pounds.

Source: Audi

World premiere at Monterey Car Week - the Audi PB 18 e-tron concept car is unveiled at Laguna Seca

• High-performance sports car concept with electric drive
• Design and technical concept car for the enthusiast
• Envisioned as a monoposto on the racetrack with ability to center the driving position in the middle

INGOLSTADT, Germany/MONTEREY, Calif., Va., August 23, 2018 – For the first time, Audi is presenting a design and technical concept car at Pebble Beach Automotive Week in Monterey, California. The all-electric Audi PB 18 e-tron presents a radical vision for the high-performance sports car of tomorrow. Broad and flat, visibly inspired by the wind tunnel and the race track, its very presence signals that it is destined to push boundaries. Its concept and exciting lines were created in the new Audi design studio in Malibu, California – where the brand’s design is consistently being updated for the future. The technical concept of the PB 18 e-tron has benefitted from Audi's many years of winning the Le Mans racing series. The experts at Audi Sport GmbH, the high-performance subsidiary of Audi, were responsible for implementation. The abbreviated name “PB 18 e-tron” refers both to the Pebble Beach venue for the premiere and to the technological DNA it shares with the successful LMP1 racing car Audi R18 e-tron.  

Consistently focused concepts for use
At first sight, the Audi PB 18 e-tron shows its kinship with another spectacular concept car from the brand – the Audi Aicon from 2017. This holds true not only for characteristic design elements like the side windows that angle inwards and the extremely extended wheel arches. The two concept cars from 2017 and 2018 also share their electric drive with solid-state battery as energy storage.

But their respective, consistently focused concepts for use make them polar opposites. While the Aicon was designed as a fully automated, long-distance luxury vehicle – a business jet for the road – the creators of the PB 18 e-tron designed it as a radical driving machine for the racetrack and road. Dynamics and emotion top its list of specifications. Parameters like propulsive power, lateral acceleration and perfect ergonomics determine each detail. And driver-orientation is in a completely new dimension.

The internal working title at Audi for the show car project was “Level Zero” – as an explicit way to differentiate it from the Levels 3, 4 and 5 of automated driving currently in focus at Audi. In the Audi PB 18 e-tron, the driver is the one steering and stepping on the accelerator or brake pedal. There are therefore no complex systems for piloted driving on board and no comfort features to add weight. In their place are a driver’s seat and cockpit that are integrated into an inner monocoque shell that can be slid laterally. When driven solo, the monocoque can be positioned in the center of the interior as in a monoposto – the perfect location for the racetrack. This is made possible not least by the by-wire design of the steering and pedals; a mechanical connection of the control elements is not needed.

Gael Buzyn is Head of the Audi Design Loft in Malibu – where the Audi PB 18 e-tron was born. He describes the most important item in the specifications: “We want to offer the driver an experience that is otherwise available only in a racing car like the Audi R18. That’s why we developed the interior around the ideal driver’s position in the center. Nevertheless, our aim was to also give the PB 18 e-tron a high degree of everyday usability, not just for the driver, but also for a potential passenger.”

When the driver’s monocoque is slid into the side position, from where the PB 18 e-tron can be steered in everyday driving like a conventional road vehicle, there is room for a passenger. An additional seat can be accessed on the other side-- integrated low above the ground and equipped with a three-point seatbelt. The driver also benefits when getting in and out from the easily accessible outside position of the monocoque, which can be moved when the door is open up to the sill.

Inspiration drawn from motorsport
The Audi PB 18 e-tron package follows the traditional architecture of a mid-engine sports car with a cab that is positioned far forward. The car’s center of gravity is located behind the seats and in front of the rear axle – which benefits the driving dynamics. This does not involve the engine-transmission unit, as in a car with a conventional drive system, but rather the battery pack.

A mix of aluminum, carbon and multi-material composites ensures the body of the Audi PB 18 e-tron has a low basic weight. Not least thanks to the innovative and comparatively light solid-state battery, a total weight of less than 1,550 kg (3,417.2 lb) can be expected.

The PB 18 e-tron is 4.53 meters long, 2 meters wide and just 1.15 meters tall (14.5 x 6.4 x 4.6 ft). These dimensions alone speak of a classical sports car. The wheelbase is 2.70 meters (8.9 ft) and the overhangs are compact. Viewed from the side, the eye is drawn to the gently sloping roof line which is pulled far to the back and features massive C-pillars. Together with the large and almost vertical rear window, this design is reminiscent of a shooting brake concept – the synthesis of a coupé with the rear of a station wagon. The result is not only a distinctive silhouette but also, with 470 liters (16.6 cubic ft), a clear bonus in terms of cargo space – usually a deficit in sports cars. An exclusive luggage set customized to fit the cargo space helps to make optimum use of the luggage compartment – even if the luggage in this car frequently consists of nothing but a helmet and racing overall.

A flat red band of lights extends across the entire width of the rear and underscores the horizontal orientation of the vehicle body. The cabin, placed on the broad shoulders of the wheel arches, appears almost dainty from the rear. The rear diffuser air outlet has been raised high – another functional feature borrowed from motorsport. The diffuser can be moved downward mechanically to increase downforce. The rear spoiler, which normally is fixed, can be extended rearward for the same purpose.

The widely extended wheel arches located opposite the central cabin are noticeable from every angle. They emphasize the extremely wide track of the PB 18 e-tron and thereby illustrate the lateral dynamic potential of the car and the obligatory quattro drive. The large 22-inch wheels, each with eight asymmetrically designed spokes are reminiscent of turbine inlets – together with the air inlets and outlets of the wheel arches, their rotation ensures excellent air supply to the large carbon brake discs.

The front is dominated by the familiar hexagon shape of the Singleframe grille, with an emphatically wide and horizontal cut. The brand logo is placed above at the front of the hood, in the typical Audi sports car style. Large air inlets to the left and right of the Singleframe supply the necessary cooling air to the brakes and the front electric motor. Wide and flat light units with integrated digital matrix technology and laser high-beam headlights complete the face of the PB 18 e-tron.

The laser high-beam headlight with its enormous range is especially emblematic of the transfer of know-how from motorsport: This technology made its debut in the Le Mans R18 racing car, where the maximum light output at speeds above 300 km/h offered a crucial safety advantage at night races as well.

The Audi designers have taken a new tack for air flow through the front hood. The hood dips deeply and acts as a lateral bridge running across the nose, connecting the two emphatically accentuated fenders and also doubling as an air deflector. A design that is thoroughly familiar from racing prototypes.

At the same time, this layout offers the driver a unique quality of visibility, and not just on the race track. Looking through the large windshield from the low seating position, the driver sees precisely into the opening of the ventilated hood and onto the road, and can thus perfectly target the course and apex of the curve. Mounted within the field of vision is a transparent OLED surface. The ideal line of the next curve can be shown on it, for example, precisely controlled with data from navigation and vehicle electronics. In normal road traffic, on the other hand, the direction arrows and other symbols from the navigation system are designed to find a perfect place here in the driver’s field of vision, analogous to a head-up display.

The large-format cockpit itself is designed as a freely programmable unit and can be switched between various layouts for the racetrack or the road, depending on the scenario for use.

Emotion without tailpipe emissions: three electric motors and quattro drive
The concept uses three powerful electric motors – one up front and two in the rear. The latter are centrally located between the steering knuckles, each directly driving one wheel via half-shafts. They deliver power output of up to 150 kW to the front axle and 450 kW to the rear – the Audi PB 18 e-tron is a true quattro, of course. Maximum output is 500 kW, with boosting, the driver can temporarily mobilize up to 570 kW. The combined torque of up to 830 newton meters (612.2 lb-ft) allows acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in scarcely more than 2 seconds – a speed that differs only marginally from that of a current LMP1 prototype.

In normal road traffic, the driver can limit the maximum speed in favor of range. This limitation is easy to deactivate on the racetrack and can be adapted to local conditions.

The focus is on not just powerful performance but also maximum efficiency. While being driven, the Audi PB 18 e-tron is designed to recover large amounts of energy: up to moderate braking, the electric motors are solely responsible for decelerating the vehicle. The hydraulic brakes only come into play for heavy braking.

The concept of separate electric motors on the rear axle offers major advantages when it comes to sporty handling. The Torque Control Manager, which works together with the Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC), actively distributes the power to the wheels of the front and rear axles as needed. This torque control provides for maximum dynamics and stability. Thanks to the virtually instantaneous response of the electric motors, the control actions are lightning-quick. The drive concept of the Audi PB 18 e-tron adapts perfectly to every situation, whether involving transverse or longitudinal dynamics.

The liquid-cooled solid-state battery has an energy capacity of 95 kWh. A full charge provides for a range of over 500 kilometers (310.7 miles) in the WLTP cycle. The Audi PB 18 e-tron is already designed for charging with a voltage of 800 volts. This means the battery can be fully recharged in about 15 minutes.

The Audi PB 18 e-tron can also be charged cordlessly via induction with Audi Wireless Charging (AWC). This is done by placing a charging pad with integral coil on the floor where the car is to be parked, and connecting it to the power supply. The alternating magnetic field induces an alternating voltage in the secondary coil fitted in the floor of the car, across the air gap.

High-tech from the LMP1 sport: the suspension
The front and rear have independent suspension on lower and upper transverse control arms, and, as commonly found in motor racing, a push-rod system on the front axle and pull-rod system on the rear – in both cases with adaptive magnetic ride shock absorbers. The suspension of the Audi R18 e-tron quattro Le Mans racing car served as the model for the basic architecture.

The wheels measure 22 inches in diameter and are fitted with 275/35 tires in the front and 315/30 in the back. Large carbon brake discs with a 19-inch diameter, in conjunction with the electric brake, safely and steadily decelerate the Audi PB 18 e-tron even in tough racetrack conditions.

Today, Audi unveiled an all-new Q3 that should help it in what is becoming a very competitive class.

The most apparent change is on the outside. Audi didn't go as subtile in the design as they have with previous models. The Q3 actually has some character with an edgier body, a large eight-bar grille from the Q8 crossover, and more pronounced fender flares. It is also slightly bigger than the outgoing Q3 - 3.8-inches longer, 0.7-inches wider, and rides on a 3.1-inch longer wheelbase. Step inside and you'll find a two-level dash design and the choice of either an 8.8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen, The driver faces a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, while a 12.3-inch display with Audi's Virtual Cockpit is optional.

For the time being, Audi is detailing powertrains for the European model. There will be four engines - three gas and one diesel. All engines will be turbocharged inline-fours. There will be a six-speed manual and seven-speed dual-clutch available, along with Audi's quattro all-wheel drive.

European markets will begin seeing the 2019 Q3 at dealers in November. Those in the U.S. will need to wait until next year to find out when it will go on sale and specs.

Source: Audi

The all-new Audi Q3: Delivering striking design, seamless technology, and thoughtful functionality to the entry SUV segment

• Bigger dimensions, more comfort: compact SUV with outstanding everyday utility
• New operating concept: digital displays and MMI touch display
• Connected like the full-size segment: smart infotainment and clever assist systems

INGOLSTADT, Germany, July 25, 2018 – The new Audi Q3 is a family SUV with great all-round talents. In the second generation it appears not only visually more self-confident, but also roomier and more versatile. Just like the Audi top-of-the-line models, it features a fully digital operating and display concept, extensive infotainment solutions and innovative assist systems. They enhance comfort, as does the further developed suspension. The new Audi Q3 will begin arriving at European dealerships in November 2018.

Strength and presence: the exterior design
The new Audi Q3 looks much sportier than its predecessor. Thanks to the striking Singleframe in octagon design, which is divided up by vertical bars, along with the large air inlets. They characterize the masculine front-end with its intensive play of light and shadow. The narrow headlights run inwards with their wedge shape. Audi supplies them in three versions through to Matrix LED technology whose adaptive high beam intelligently illuminates the road. The side view epitomizes the balance of the exterior design with the symmetrical lighting graphics of the headlights and rear lights. The shoulder line connects them from a styling perspective and provides an athletic overall impression with strong muscles over the wheel arches. The contours draw their inspiration from Audi’s quattro DNA and make the SUV seem even wider; the color-contrasting wheel arch trims emphasize the offroad look. Supported by a long roof edge spoiler, which also flanks the rear window at the side, the steeply raked D pillars of the body line also create an appearance of forward thrust.

Driver-oriented and sporty: the interior
Taut lines, three-dimensionally styled elements – the interior continues the design of the exterior and echoes in many ways the brand’s full-size models. The architecture harmonizes perfectly with the new operating concept. Its central element is the MMI touch display with its high-gloss black glass-look surround.

Together with the air conditioning controls underneath, it is tilted ten degrees toward the driver. All displays, buttons and controls are located ergonomically. The comfortable seats provide a sporty position; the steering wheel is steeply angled accordingly.

Generous and variable: the space concept
Compared with its predecessor, the new Audi Q3 has grown in virtually all dimensions. It is 4,485 millimeters (14.7 ft) long, 1,856 millimeters (6.1 ft) wide and 1,585 millimeters (5.2 ft) high. Its wheelbase, which has been stretched by 77 millimeters (3.0 in), is spacious yet, at the same time, extremely versatile: The rear seats can be moved fore/aft by 150 millimeters 
(5.9 in). Their three-way split backrests in the ratio 40:20:40 can be tilted in seven stages. Depending on the position of the rear seats and backrests, the luggage compartment capacity is between 530 and 1,525 liters (18.7-53.9 cu ft). The loading floor can be adjusted in three levels and the parcel shelf can be stowed underneath the floor if not needed. An electric tailgate, which can also be opened and closed with a kicking motion, is also available as an option.

Digital world: controls and displays
The operating and display concept of the SUV has been overhauled from the ground up – Audi has done away with the analog instruments. Even the standard specification includes a digital instrument cluster with a 10.25 inch screen diagonal, which the driver operates using the multifunction steering wheel. With the top-of-the-line equipment MMI navigation plus, the displays appear in the Audi virtual cockpit, which offers many additional functions. There is also a 10.1-inch touch display. As an option, the driver can choose the larger Audi virtual cockpit plus with three different views, including a new, particularly sporty display. The intuitive operating concept with its flat menu structure is supplemented by natural-language voice control. It also understands freely structured wording. The ingenious dialog manager asks questions if necessary, allows corrections, offers choices and defers to the speaker when interrupted.

Intelligently connected: infotainment and Audi connect
The top-of-the-line infotainment system in the Audi Q3 offers the same technical functions as in the higher segments. Its data transfer module supports the LTE Advanced standard with integrated Wi-Fi hotspot for the passengers’ mobile devices. The navigation system recognizes the driver’s preferences based on previous journeys, allowing it to generate suitable route suggestions. The Audi connect portfolio ideally supplements navigation guidance with traffic information online, the point-of-interest search and information on parking spaces and filling stations appearing directly in the navigation map. The Audi Q3 utilizes the Audi fleet’s swarm intelligence to forecast the availability of roadside parking space, to provide information on hazardous spots and current speed limits. Other options include Google Earth and the hybrid radio, which automatically switches between FM, DAB and the online stream to ensure optimum reception at all times. The voice control function accesses information stored in the vehicle as well as the detailed knowledge in the cloud to respond. The Audi Q3 is even more tightly integrated with the myAudi app. It seamlessly connects a smartphone to the car. The customer can, for instance, transfer navigation routes and the smartphone calendar to the MMI and locate where the Q3 is parked.

A range of hardware modules supplement the infotainment portfolio, including the Audi phone box. It links the owner’s smartphone to the vehicle’s antenna and charges the phone inductively. The Audi smartphone interface links customers’ iOS and Android cell phones and places their Apple Car Play or Android Auto environment on the MMI display. The Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with virtual sound provides three-dimensional audio and drives a total of 15 loudspeakers.

Convenience and safety: driver assistance systems
The adaptive cruise assist is a highlight of the assist systems. It incorporates the functions of adaptive speed assist, traffic jam assist and active lane assist. In this way it assists the driver with longitudinal and lateral control – substantially enhancing comfort on long journeys in particular. The Audi Q3 makes maneuvering easier thanks to the four 360 degree cameras.

They show on the large infotainment screen the SUV’s immediate surroundings. Here the driver can also follow the maneuvers completed by the park assist. The park assist steers the car automatically into and out of parking spaces. The driver only has to accelerate, brake and shift gears. If the driver wants to reverse out of a parallel parking space or a tight entrance, cross traffic assist is activated. The radar sensors, which the system uses to monitor the area behind the vehicle, also provide information to the standard-fit lane change warning. If the system detects a vehicle located in the blind spot or approaching quickly from the rear, a warning LED is lit in the relevant exterior mirror.

Agility on- and offroad: engines and suspension
As part of the sales launch, Audi is delivering the new Q3 with four engine versions, three gasoline and one diesel unit in combination with front-wheel or quattro drive. Their power outputs range from 110 kW (150 hp) to 169 kW (230 hp). All engines are four-cylinder direct injection units with turbocharging. They are powerful, refined and efficient. A six-speed manual transmission or a fast-shifting seven-speed S tronic is used to transmit the power. Offroad the permanent all-wheel drive delivers excellent driving pleasure with optimum traction and unshakable stability. Activated at the push of a button, the optional hill descent control maintains the preset speed on a steep downhill gradient. The driver can vary the characteristics of the Audi Q3 depending on the driving situation, road conditions or personal needs using the Audi drive select dynamic handling system with six profiles – from markedly comfortable, highly efficient through to out-and-out sporty. The system also influences the optional suspension with damper control where sensors measure the movements of all four wheels as well as the vehicle’s lateral and longitudinal acceleration and adjust the dampers as required. This results in enhanced driving dynamics with even more comfort. Alternatively, there is the sport suspension – standard with the S line exterior package – with tauter spring/damper tuning and progressive steering. Its ratio becomes increasingly direct with increasing steering angle, adding substantially to the light-footed handling of the new Audi Q3.

The equipment, data and prices specified in this release refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted. U.S. model specifications to follow closer to launch in 2019.

Today at an event in in Shenzen, China, Audi revealed the long-teased Q8 crossover.

Audi describes the Q8 as a vehicle that "combines the elegance of a four-door luxury coupé with the practical versatility of a large SUV." We're really thinking that Audi stretching the definition of a "four-door luxury coupé" because the only the only coupe like features we can see are the lowered roof line and wider stance. The front end is a bit too busy with a large single-frame grille and vents for the bumper. Along the side, Audi's designers squared off many of the corners and there is a massive C-Pillar.

The interior is similar to the new A6 and A8 sedans with a modern design for dash, dual-touchscreens that control many aspects of the vehicle, and Audi's Virtual Cockpit system. There will be a fair amount of cargo space in the Q8 with Audi quoting measurements of 21.3 cubic feet with the rear seats up, and 61.9 cubic feet when folded.

All Q8s will come equipped with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that acts as a starter motor and providing more oomph in hard acceleration. The system can also recover energy when braking. At the moment, Audi has only announced two engines for the Q8 - both 3.0L turbocharged V6s. One is a diesel that will be sold in Europe, and the other being a gas engine. quattro all-wheel drive will come standard.

Adaptive dampers will come standard, while an optional air suspension system can raise or lower the ride height by 3.5 inches. All-wheel steering is available as an option and can turn the rear-wheels up to 5 degrees.

Sales of the Q8 kick off in the third-quarter of this year for Europe. Expect the U.S. to follow either late this year or early next year.

Source: Audi

The new face of the Q family: the Audi Q8

• Expressive design with new Singleframe and features from the original Audi quattro
• Generous, elegant interior, touch operating concept and high-tech navigation
• All-wheel steering and quattro drive for agile handling and best traction

The Audi Q8 combines the elegance of a four-door luxury coupé with the practical versatility of a large SUV. Richly equipped, comprehensively connected and tough enough for off-road duty, it is a confident companion for business and leisure. The Audi Q8 launches on the European market in the third quarter of 2018.

Versatile, sporty, elegant: the dimensional and space concept
The Audi Q8 exudes sporty dynamics and upscale prestige like no other SUV from the brand with the four rings. 4.99 meters (16.4 ft) long, 2.00 meters (6.6 ft) wide and 1.71 meters (5.6 ft) tall, the SUV coupe is wider, shorter and lower than its Q7 sister model. With a wheelbase of nearly 3.00 meters (9.8 ft), it offers a spacious interior that beats of its direct competitors in most relevant dimensions, including interior length and headroom. There is a three-seat system in the rear with longitudinally adjusting upon request. With the seatbacks folded down, the luggage compartment under the power rear hatch holds up to 1,755 liters (62.0 cu ft).

New presence for the Q family: the exterior design
With the imposing Singleframe in octagonal design, the Audi Q8 is the new face of the Q family. The brawny radiator grille stands upright and, together with the spoiler that has been drawn toward the front and the large, highly contoured air inlets, emphasizes the self-confident look. The elegantly sloping roofline terminates in gently inclined D-pillars and rests against the quattro blisters above the wheel arches, which house up to 22-inch wheels. Numerous details hint at the design of the original quattro. Strong contours and athletically tight surfaces convey a feeling of power, sophistication and the special dynamics of the permanent all-wheel drive. The spoiler, wheel arch trims, door trim strips and diffuser are in a contrasting color, to further emphasize the off-road look.

Standard LED headlights illuminate the road, with HD Matrix LED technology available as an option. Here both the three-dimensional signature of the daytime running lights and the taillights have a digital character. A light strip connects the units at the rear. As in the original Audi quattro, a black surface underlays this strip. Q8 owners can use the myAudi app on their smartphone to activate various lighting functions and experience them from the outside.

Sporty driving experience: suspension and drive
Audi is quattro and quattro is Audi – of course this applies in particular to the Q8, the top SUV of the brand. The purely mechanical center differential transfers the forces to the front axle and rear axle at a ratio of 40:60 as standard. When required, it transfers the majority to the axle with the better traction. That plus as much 254 millimeters (10.0 in) of ground clearance, short overhangs and hill descent control means the Audi Q8 can keep going even after the pavement ends. The suspension with damper control is standard. Audi offers the adaptive air suspension with controlled damping as an option, with either comfort or sport setup. It adjusts the ride height depending on the driving situation and the driver’s preference by as much as 90 millimeters (3.5 in).

Besides the standard progressive steering, whose steering ratio becomes increasingly direct the further the steering wheel is turned, Audi also offers the option of all-wheel steering. It can turn the rear wheels as much as 5 degrees – counter to the direction of the turn at low speeds to increase agility and at higher speeds in the direction of the turn for better stability.

All drive systems are particularly efficient thanks to the new mild hybrid technology (MHEV). The 48-volt primary electrical system incorporates two important technology modules: a lithium-ion battery and a belt alternator starter. During braking, it can recover up to 12 kW of power and feed it back into the battery. The MHEV technology enables long coasting phases with the engine deactivated and a start-stop range that begins at 22 km/h (13.7 mph).

Clarity is the new premium: the interior
Easy-to-understand symbols stand for the digital precision from Audi and for the high level of integration of architecture and operation. The central element is the top MMI touch response display. With its black-panel look, it almost dissolves into a large, black surface when switched off. All elements refer logically to one another, from the flat air vent strip to the wide console on the center tunnel bearing the tiptronic selector lever. In the dark, the optional contour light traces the distinctive design lines of the interior and provides backlight for the three-dimensionally lasered quattro badge above the glove compartment – an example for the love of detail at Audi. Options including customized contour seats with massage function and ventilation, four-zone automatic air conditioning and the air quality package further enhance the elegant ambiance.

Sensitive and concise: controls and displays
With the MMI touch response operating concept of the new Audi Q8, nearly every function can be accessed via two large displays. The upper 10.1-inch display is used for controlling the infotainment and the navigation system. The driver uses the 8.6-inch display below that for heating and air conditioning, convenience functions and text input, the latter with his or her wrist resting comfortably and ergonomically on the selector lever.

Operation is swift and simple: A tactile and acoustic click confirms when a finger activates a function. In addition to all this, the natural language voice control turns the Audi Q8 into an intelligent dialog partner. Drivers can word their commands freely. The voice control can, for example, understand the sentence “I am hungry” and in response suggests restaurants close by.

The instruments are shown in the fully digital Audi virtual cockpit. Its high-resolution 12.3-inch display can be switched between two views via the multifunction steering wheel. The optional plus version includes a third, particularly sporty view. The head-up display also projects important information onto the windshield, including detailed lane guidance for navigation.

Clever networking: Audi connect and driver assistance systems
On the German market, the Audi Q8 comes standard with the top-of-the-line infotainment system, MMI navigation plus. It includes the Audi connect data transfer module with the LTE Advanced standard and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The navigation system recognizes the driver’s preferences based on previous journeys and therefore can make intelligent suggestions. The online services from Audi connect add predictive features to the route planning process. This lets the two Car-to-X services for traffic sign information and hazard information benefit from the swarm intelligence of the Audi fleet. The optional Audi connect key lets the driver lock/unlock the vehicle, and start the engine using a compatible Android smartphone. Individual user profiles allow as many as 400 preferred settings to be stored for multiple drivers. With the myAudi app, drivers can also transfer special destinations to the navigation system, stream music or transfer the smartphone calendar to the MMI.

The Audi Q8 is top-notch with respect to sound and connection quality thanks to the Audi phone box and voice-over LTE. The same applies to the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System. It delivers fascinating 3D sound with height information to all five seats. The music unfolds exactly how it was recorded in the concert hall.

Whether parking, in the city or on long journeys – the Audi Q8 supports its driver in many situations. Among the systems contributing here are the adaptive cruise assist, efficiency assist, crossing assist, lane change warning, curb warning and 360 degree cameras. One highlight is the remote garage pilot, which will follow in early 2019. Under the supervision of the driver, it guides the SUV into a garage and back out again autonomously. The driver gets out of the car beforehand and activates the process using the myAudi app on their smartphone. The (remote) parking pilot offers a similar level of convenience. Behind all of these features is the central driver assistance controller. It continuously computes a differentiated model of the surroundings and uses this to manage the assistance systems. The required data are obtained – depending on the selected options – from up to five radar sensors, six cameras, twelve ultrasound sensors and the laser scanner. 

The Audi A7 hasn't changed much since it was launched back in 2012. Apparently, Audi went with the 'if ain't broke, why fix it' mantra. But that changes today as the German automaker unveiled the second-generation A7 in Germany tonight.

Audi didn't mess with the A7's silhouette which was one of the key items that made it. What has changed is the treatment for the front and rear. The front is similar the A8 with a wider front grille and sculpted hood. A full-length taillight and retractable spoiler make up the rear. The 2019 A7 is slightly shorter than the current model in overall length (about 0.6-inches).

The interior is where the major changes have taken place. There is a lot of influence from the A8 with the dual-screen MMI infotainment system and modern design for the dash. Audi will offer seating arrangements for four or five people.

At launch, the A7 will come with a turbocharged 3.0L V6 featuring 340 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and quattro all-wheel drive. Like the A8, the A7 will feature a mild-hybrid capability through a 48-volt lithium-ion battery and an upgraded alternator. A variety of gas and diesel engine options will follow. Expect to see the 3.0L and possibly a four-cylinder option arrive our on shores first, with high-performance variants to follow.

Technology features for the A7 include a rear-wheel steering system, lane-centering assist, AI Remote Parking Pilot, AI Remote Garage Pilot, and adaptive cruise control.

The A7 goes on sale in Germany in February, while the U.S. has to wait till late next year or early 2019.

Source: Audi
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The new Audi A7 Sportback: Sporty face of Audi in the luxury class

• Four-door coupe embodies progressiveness in design and technology
• All-digital control system, comprehensive connectivity and mild hybrid technology
• Gran Turismo with enhanced handling and more long-distance comfort

The A7 Sportback represents the new Audi design language to a great extent and delivers on the design promise made by the prologue studies. The four-door coupe sets standards in the luxury class when it comes to progressiveness. It embodies a new style of Gran Turismo, with dynamic lines, systematic digitalization, a sporty driving experience and a versatile space concept.

Consumption figures for the Audi A7 Sportback 55 TFSI quattro S tronic: 
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 7.2 – 6.8* (32.7 – 34.6 US mpg)
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 163 – 154* (262.3 – 247.8 g/mi)
*Figures depend on the wheel/tire sets used

Dynamics at their most beautiful: the exterior design
The exterior design of the A7 Sportback is an expression of the new design language that Audi introduced with the prologue study and made its production debut in the new Audi A8. With large surfaces, sharp edges and taut, athletic lines, the A7 signals dynamics and progressiveness from every perspective.

Up front, the Singleframe grille – wider and lower than that of the Audi A8 – the narrow headlights, the boldly contoured air inlets and the flat front end convey at a glance the sportiness of the Gran Turismo. The headlights are available in three versions. With the middle and top equipment lines, the light signature takes up the subject of digitalization: 12 adjacent lighting segments separated by narrow intervening spaces evoke associations with the binary digits 0 and 1. The top version is the HD Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light.

The Audi A7 Sportback is an athletic sculpture with a long engine hood, long wheelbase and short overhangs. Pronounced contours emphasize the wheels, which measure up to 21 inches in diameter, and reference Audi’s quattro genes. These genes determine the proportions of the vehicle’s body. The silhouette is defined by the dynamic roofline, which drops sharply toward the rear. Four figures delineate the sporty character of the large coupe: It is 4,969 millimeters (16.3 ft) long, has a wheelbase of 2,926 millimeters (9.6 ft) and is 1,908 millimeters (6.3 ft) wide, but stands only 1,422 millimeters (4.7 ft) high.

As with the previous model, the rear end is tapered like that of a yacht. The long luggage compartment lid terminates in a pronounced, curved lip from which an integrated spoiler extends automatically at 120 km/h (74.6 mph). A flat light strip – a design feature common to all of Audi’s top models – joins the rear lights, whose tail lights are made up of 13 vertical segments. When the doors are unlocked and again when they are locked, fast-moving light animations play in the rear lights and in the headlights, highlighting the big coupe’s dynamics while standing still. The progressive exterior design of the new Audi A7 Sportback is largely devoid of chrome. The paint range offers a choice of 15 colors, eight of which are new. The optional S line exterior package further hones the look, with modifications to the radiator grille and the front air inlets, the sills and the front and rear diffusers. They are trimmed in gloss black and more strongly sculpted.

Show car design comes to production: the interior
The interior fuses design and technology in a unique way. The interior of the new Audi A7 Sportback dazzles with its futuristic lounge atmosphere. Its reduced, clean design language is based in a one-of-a-kind balance of tension and coolness. The horizontal lines and sleek instrument panel provide for a feeling of airy spaciousness. The center console is oriented toward the driver, underscoring the Gran Turismo’s sporty character. Four key values characterize the interior concept: progressiveness, sportiness, intuitiveness and sophistication. All colors, upholstery materials and inlays underscore the new aesthetic, from the base version to the design selection, the S line sport package and the particularly sophisticated Valcona leather. The optional contour ambient lighting package traces the contours and subtly highlights the space.

The 10.1-inch upper display (in combination with MMI navigation plus) is tilted toward the driver. With its black panel optics and framed in a graphite gray aluminum clasp, it almost disappears into the dashboard when switched off. The body supporting the clasp is itself a geometric sculpture. The display’s user interface appears as soon as the car is opened. In keeping with the interior design, the look is reduced and succinct. All screen content can be quickly registered.

Control at your fingertips: MMI touch response control system and online voice control
The new Audi A7 systematically continues the digitalization strategy of the A8. The interior architecture melds seamlessly with Audi’s new MMI touch response operating concept. It replaces the rotary pushbutton and the conventional buttons and controls of the previous model with two large, high-resolution touch displays.

The driver controls the infotainment system from the upper display. Mounted on the asymmetric console of the center tunnel, the 8.6-inch lower display provides access to the climate control system, comfort functions and text input. Drivers can rest their wrist on the automatic transmission’s wide selector lever knob.

Audi offers an optional head-up display that projects important information onto the windshield. MMI navigation plus also includes the Audi virtual cockpit with a 12.3-inch display.

The MMI touch response operating concept features haptic and acoustic feedback and is as intuitive to use as a smartphone. Users hear and feel a click as confirmation when their finger triggers a function. With its logical and flat menu structure, the system allows fast access to the various vehicle functions, and it can also be personalized thanks to configurable and movable favorites buttons.

The optional voice control in the new A7 Sportback makes operation even more convenient. With MMI navigation plus, the natural speech dialogue system processes questions and commands in two ways – with information stored onboard and at the same time with detailed knowledge from the cloud.

Fully connected for more convenience and safety: infotainment and connect features
With its comprehensive connectivity, the Audi A7 is perfectly equipped for long-distance touring. It offers customers more convenience, safety and customization options. The Gran Turismo features the same infotainment and connectivity range as the Audi A8. Up to seven drivers can store their preferred settings in individual user profiles. As many as 400 parameters can be personalized. The online services from Audi connect have been expanded. Additions include the traffic sign and hazard information Car-to-X services, which utilize the swarm intelligence of the Audi fleet.

The new A7 Sportback comes standard with the MMI radio; MMI navigation and MMI navigation plus are available as options. There is a choice of four sound systems. The top version, the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System, also delivers fascinating 3D sound to the rear seats.

Intelligent and convenient: the Audi AI systems 
With the AI button, the driver activates the Audi AI remote parking pilot and the Audi AI remote garage pilot, which will be made available at some point in 2018. They autonomously maneuver the A7 Sportback into and out of a parking space or garage. The driver can get out of the car before launching the function via the myAudi app on their smartphone. To monitor the maneuver, the driver presses and holds the Audi AI button the entire time. The central driver assistance controller (zFAS) merges the data from a sophisticated set of sensors to continually compute an image of the surroundings. Depending on the equipment level, there can be as many as five radar sensors, five cameras, 12 ultrasonic sensors and a laser scanner.

Besides the Audi AI systems, the new A7 Sportback features a total of 39 driver assistance systems to make things easier for the driver. They are split up into three packages: the Audi AI parking package (gradual introduction beginning 2018), the City assist package with the new crossing assist, and the Tour assist package. The latter includes such things as the efficiency assistant, which facilitates a driving style conducive to reducing consumption, and the adaptive driving assistant (ADA), which supplements the adaptive cruise control (ACC) with helpful steering interventions to maintain the lane. All driver assistance systems feature improved control mechanisms.

Handling and long-distance comfort: the chassis
The new A7 further extends its synthesis of sportiness and comfort. The optional dynamic-all-wheel steering, the new electronic chassis program (ECP) – the central controller for the chassis – and the updated air suspension make it even more agile, nimble and comfortable. The A7 is thus the perfect Gran Turismo: dynamic and agile on twisty country roads, yet comfortable on long highway stretches.

Many aspects of the front and rear axles have been developed from scratch. The standard progressive steering, whose generally sporty ratio becomes even more direct the further the steering wheel is turned, features a new concept for intensive road feedback. Mounted behind large wheels – up to 21 inches and 255/35 – with improved rolling comfort are aluminum fixed-caliper brakes with discs up to 400 millimeters (15.7 in) in diameter. Customers can choose between four suspension setups: a conventional steel spring suspension, the sport suspension that lowers ride height by 10 millimeters (0.4 in), electronically controlled damping and the self-leveling adaptive air suspension.

The top chassis-related innovation is dynamic-all-wheel steering. It combines direct, sporty steering response with unshakable stability, resolving the conflict of aims between agility and comfort. The steering ratio varies as a function of speed between 9.5:1 and 16.5:1 by means of active steering interventions at the front and rear axle. At the front axle, strain wave gearing is used to superimpose these in response to the driver’s steering input. At the rear axle, a spindle drive turns the wheels by as much as 5 degrees. At low speed, they steer counter to the front wheels to further increase the agility of the big coupe when parking or driving in urban traffic, for example. This reduces the turning circle at full lock by 1.1 meters (3.6 ft). At 60 km/h (37.3 mph) and above, the rear axle steers in the same direction to increase straight-line stability and facilitate lane changes.

The optional sport differential improves handing even further. It actively distributes drive torque between the rear wheels, complementing quattro all-wheel drive. Like dynamic-all-wheel steering, controlled damping and the adaptive air suspension, the sport differential is integrated into the control function of the electronic chassis platform (ECP). These systems are closely networked for maximum precision. The driver can use the Audi drive select system to activate different ride profiles featuring a more pronounced difference between comfort and sportiness than in the previous model.

Broad-based electrification: mild hybrid system for greater comfort and efficiency
All engines used in the A7 Sportback come standard with a new mild hybrid system (MHEV) for greater comfort and efficiency. With the two V6 engines, this uses a 48-volt primary electrical system. A belt alternator starter (BAS) works together with a lithium-ion battery and achieves a recuperation performance of up to 12 kW when braking. At speeds between 55 and 160 km/h (34.2 – 99.4 mph), the four-door coupe can coast in freewheeling mode with the engine deactivated and then restarted comfortably via the BAS.

The start-stop function has been significantly expanded and now activates at 22 km/h (13.7 mph). In combination with the standard front camera, the engine is restarted predictively while at a standstill as soon as vehicle ahead begins to move. In real-world driving, the MHEV technology reduces fuel consumption by up to 0.7 liters per 100 kilometers.

The new Audi A7 Sportback will initially launch with the 3.0 V6 TFSI. The sonorously understated V6 turbo produces 250 kW (340 hp) and 500 Nm (368.8 lb-ft). The four-door coupe sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155.3 mph). In the NEDC, the base version of the Audi A7 55 TFSI consumes 6.8 liters of fuel (34.6 US mpg), corresponding to CO2 emissions of 154 grams (247.8 g/mi). The 3.0 TFSI is paired with a seven-speed S tronic. Its quattro drivetrain uses the efficient ultra technology that activates rear-wheel drive as needed. Additional six- and four-cylinder engines, both gasoline and diesel, will follow shortly after the start of production.

The body concept: Coupé, Sedan and Avant in one
The A7 Sportback combines the best of all worlds and is a dynamic all-around talent for business and recreation. It offers the design of a Coupé, the spaciousness of a Sedan and the variability of an Avant. The interior concept of the A7 Sportback impresses with more space and more comfortable seating – and that despite having a dynamic roofline. Compared with the previous model, interior length has increased 21 millimeters (0.8 in), resulting in more rear knee room. Rear passengers also enjoy more head room. The loading width has also increased compared with the previous model and now measures 1,050 millimeters (3.4 ft).

Topping the range of all-new seats are the multi-adjustable, customized contour front seats with ventilation and massage. The configuration with individual rear seats (alternative: 2+1 bench) offers a plenty of space and comfort. New high-tech options make life with the Audi A7 Sportback even more comfortable and convenient. The air quality package improves interior air quality by means of fragrancing with subtle scents, an ionizer and an effective combination filter.

The body, which features steel and aluminum composite construction with large components such as add-on parts made of aluminum, is a key factor in the improved handling and greater comfort. The four-door coupe scores top marks with respect to body stiffness, aeroacoustics and aerodynamics. The Gran Turismo spoils its passengers with improved acoustic comfort and – thanks to sophisticated aerodynamics – minimal wind noise.

The improved panoramic glass sunroof with particularly large glass elements lets more light into the cabin. The heated windshield and wipers with integrated nozzles are additional options for more convenience.

Despite the markedly dynamic lines, the luggage compartment has a base capacity of 535 liters (18.9 cu ft). This increases to 1,390 liters (49.1 cu ft) with the rear seats folded down. The luggage compartment has been optimized so that two golf bags now fit horizontally – in addition to the optional spare tire. The optional sensor-controlled rear hatch opens and closes automatically in response to a foot motion.

The new Audi A7 Sportback rolls off the assembly line at the Neckarsulm site and will launch on the German market in late February 2018. The base price for the 55 TFSI quattro S tronic is 67,800 euros. 

Audi's current naming system for their vehicles makes some sense. The A1 is their smallest car while the Q7 sits as their largest crossover. But the German automaker has decided to change up their naming structure for their powertrains. Instead of the A4 2.0 TFSI, be prepared to see the A4 30 TFSI. 

Audi has announced today that it will be using two numbers alongside the model designation and engine type. The numbers don't signify engine displacement, but power output. Here is a list with the new naming system and power output they correspond to.

• 30 = 109-128 horsepower
• 35 = 147-160 horsepower
• 40 = 167-201 horsepower
• 45 = 226-248 horsepower
• 50 = 281-308 horsepower
• 55 = 328-368 horsepower
• 60 = 429-455 horsepower
• 70 = 536+ horsepower

“As alternative drive technologies become increasingly relevant, engine displacement as a performance attribute is becoming less important to our customers. The clarity and logic of structuring the designations according to power output makes it possible to distinguish between the various performance levels,” said Dr. Dietmar Voggenreiter, Board of Management Member for Sales and Marketing at AUDI AG.

The next-generation Audi A8 will be the first model to feature this new nomenclature when it launches in Europe later this year. Other models will follow thereafter.

Source: Audi
Press Release is on Page 2

Two numbers to signify the future – new power output designations at Audi

• Designations taking effect worldwide for all drive types
• Clearly discernible hierarchy in each model series
• Audi A8 the first model with new type designation

Audi is adopting a standardized nomenclature for the power output designations of its worldwide range of automobiles. The names of the model series – from Audi A1 to Audi Q7 – will remain unchanged. Within the model families, combinations of two numbers will replace the various type designations previously used. The new designations stand for the specific power output and apply both to cars with combustion engines and to e-tron models with hybrid and electric drives.
The reference value for the new model designations is the power output of the individual model in kilowatts (kW). Audi is thus subclassifying its model range into different performance levels – each identified by a two-numeral combination. For example, the numeral combination “30” will appear on the rear of all models with power output between 81 and 96 kW. And “45” stands for power output between 169 and 185 kW. The top of the Audi model range is the performance class above 400 kW, which is identifiable by the number combination “70”. In each case the numerals appear along with the engine technology – TFSI, TDI, g-tron or e-tron.

The number combinations identifying the performance levels in the Audi product range increase in increments of five, and they represent the hierarchy within both the respective model series and the brand’s overall model range. According to the new nomenclature, in the future the spectrum will range from the Audi Q2 30 TFSI with 85 kW (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 5.4 - 5.1*; CO2 emissions in g/km: 123 - 117*) to the Audi Q7 50 TDI with 200 kW (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 6.4 - 5.9*; CO2 emissions in g/km: 168 - 154*). A special place in the line-up is occupied by the high-end, high-performance S and RS models and the Audi R8 (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 12.5 - 11.4; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 292 - 272). They will retain their classic names in reference to their top position in the model range.

“As alternative drive technologies become increasingly relevant, engine displacement as a performance attribute is becoming less important to our customers. The clarity and logic of structuring the designations according to power output makes it possible to distinguish between the various performance levels,” explains Dr. Dietmar Voggenreiter, Board of Management Member for Sales and Marketing at AUDI AG.

The changes will kick off with the new Audi A8 generation in the fall of 2017. First among the two six-cylinder engines to be redesignated will be the 3.0 TDI with 210 kW – as the Audi A8 50 TDI (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 5.8 - 5.6**; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 152 - 145**), and the 3.0 TFSI with 250 kW – as the Audi A8 55 TFSI (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 7.8 - 7.5**; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 178 - 171**).

In the coming months, all Audi model series launched on the market will be assigned the new performance designations beginning when they are offered for sale. Audi will change the designations of the remaining model series in the current product range in time for the new model year changeover in summer of 2018. 

The current Audi A8 was one of the oldest models in the flagship class, but this changes as the German automaker revealed the all-new A8 at an event in Barcelona, Spain.

We have to give Audi some credit for at least trying to make the new A8 look slightly different than the outgoing one. Elements of the 2014 Prologue Concept are present with similar styling in the rear - slightly angled trunk lid and LED taillights with a light bar. The front end features the largest version of Audi's Singleframe grille and headlights equipped with lasers that double the range of the high beams at speeds above 43 MPH. 

But the big story about the new A8 is the smorgasbord of technology available.

• The virtual cockpit system now comes with a 720P HD screen
• Audi's updated MMI system doesn't feature any knobs or buttons. Instead, various functions are accessed through the 10.5-inch touchscreen or voice controls. Sound and tactile feedback tells a driver the function is being executed. 
• Audi claims the A8 is "the first production automobile in the world to have been developed for highly automated driving." (We're sure some competitors will be balking at this exclamation.)
  • Audi AI is an artificial intelligence-based software system that controls the self-driving aspects of the A8. This system is the first production vehicle with SAE Level 3 self-driving tech - a vehicle can take full control of driving the vehicle, but only in specific situations. In this case, Audi AI can take care of accelerating, steering, and braking at speeds below 37.3 MPH. 
  • Audi AI can also maneuver the vehicle into a parking spot or garage space without the driver in the vehicle.
• All A8s will come with a 48-Volt electrical system - first shown on the SQ7 TDI. This means the A8 will come with an active suspension system that uses an electric motor and various components for each wheel to adjust suspension load. Audi claims this gives the A8 a comfortable ride and sharp handling characteristics.
  • The 48-Volt system also means all A8s will have a mild hybrid system to improve fuel economy.

For the European market, the Audi A8 will launch with two turbocharged 3.0L V6 engines (gas and diesel). Down the road, Audi will add 4.0L V8 (gas and diesel), W12, and a e-tron plug-in hybrid to the A8's powertrain lineup. An eight-speed automatic routes power to all four wheels.

Audi will launch the A8 in Germany this fall with other markets to follow. Pricing will begin at €90,600 (about $103,318) for the standard wheelbase and €94,100 (about $107,310) for the long-wheelbase A8 L.

Source: Audi
Press Release is on Page 2

The new Audi A8: future of the luxury class

• World debut for flagship model at Audi Summit in Barcelona
• New design language and a pioneering touch operating concept
• Piloted driving functions to be rolled out in production Audi A8 versions from 2018

Today is where the future begins in the luxury class: The new Audi A8 makes its world debut at the Audi Summit in Barcelona. In its fourth generation, the flagship model again provides the benchmark for Vorsprung durch Technik – with a new design language, an innovative touchscreen operating concept and a systematically electrified drive. The Audi A8 is also the first production automobile in the world to have been developed for highly automated driving. From 2018, Audi will gradually be taking piloted driving functions such as parking pilot, garage pilot and traffic jam pilot into production.

Doyen of style: the exterior design
The Audi A8 is stylistically defining – it signals the dawning of a new design era for the entire brand. The front end with the wide, upright Singleframe grille and the fluid, muscular body symbolize sporty elegance, sophistication and progressive status. The new A8 delivers on the promise made by the Audi prologue design study. The luxury sedan possesses a powerful presence – whether in the 5.17 meter (17.0 ft) standard version or the A8 L, which has a 13 centimeter (5.1 in) longer wheelbase.

The Audi brand is renowned worldwide for sports appeal, lightweight construction and quattro permanent all-wheel drive – and the design of the new A8 conveys these values. The balanced proportions emphasize all four wheels in equal measure. Muscular shapes above the wheel arches give visual expression to the quattro drive. Viewed side-on, the upright front end combined with the gently inclined rear create visual tension. The flagship model proclaims its identity both day and night, drawing on both the striking HD Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser lighting, and the LED light strip combined with OLED technology rear lights. These produce unique light animations as the driver approaches and leaves the car.

Luxury lounge: the interior
Freedom is the defining design feature with a new luxury slant. This explains the A8’s resemblance to a lavish, spacious lounge. Compared to the predecessor model, it has grown substantially in length in both body versions.

The range of equipment and materials is extensive, with every detail radiating superlative bespoke quality – from the perforation in the seat upholstery to the electrically opened and closed shutters on the air vents.

The classiest seat in the new Audi flagship model is in the rear right – the optional relaxation seat in the A8 L that comes with four different adjustment options and a footrest. In this seat, the passenger can warm and massage the soles of their feet on a unit with multiple settings incorporated into the back of the front-passenger seat. The new comfort head restraints complete the experience. The rear passengers can also control an array of functions such as ambient lighting, the new HD Matrix reading lights and seat massage, plus make private phone calls, via a separate operating unit. The rear seat remote, with its OLED display as large as a smartphone, is a removable unit housed in the center armrest.

Fingertip response: the controls
The luxury sedan’s interior deliberately adopts a reductive design; the interior architecture is clear and with a strictly horizontal orientation. Audi carries its high quality standards into the digital age with a radically new operating concept. It does away with the familiar rotary pushbutton and touchpad of the predecessor model. The instrument panel is kept largely clear of buttons and switches. At its center is a 10.1-inch touchscreen display which, when off, blends almost invisibly into the high-gloss black surround thanks to its black-panel look.

The user interface appears as soon as the car is opened. The driver controls the Infotainment system with fingertip control on the large display. They can use a second touchscreen display on the center tunnel console to access the air conditioning and comfort functions as well as make text inputs. When the driver activates a function in the upper or lower display, they hear and feel a click by way of confirmation. The glass-look operating buttons respond in the same way. The combination of acoustic and tactile feedback along with the use of common touch gestures such as swiping make the new MMI touch response especially safe, intuitive and quick to use.

The A8 can also engage in intelligent conversation. The driver can activate an array of functions in the automobile using a new, natural form of voice control. Information on destinations and media is either available on board or is delivered from the cloud at LTE speed. The extensive Audi connect range also includes traffic sign recognition and hazard information – innovative car-to-X services that draw on the swarm intelligence of the Audi fleet.

The extensively optimized navigation is another new feature: It is self-learning, based on the route just driven. This provides the driver with intelligent search suggestions. The map also incorporates highly detailed 3D models of major European cities.

World premiere: the pilot-driving Audi A8
The new A8 is the first production automobile to have been developed specially for highly automated driving. The Audi AI traffic jam pilot takes charge of driving in slow-moving traffic at up to 60 km/h (37.3 mph) on freeways and highways where a physical barrier separates the two carriageways. The system is activated using the AI button on the center console.

The traffic jam pilot manages starting, accelerating, steering and braking. The driver no longer needs to monitor the car permanently. They can take their hands off the steering wheel permanently and, depending on the national laws, focus on a different activity that is supported by the car, such as watching the on-board TV. As soon as the system reaches its limits, it calls on the driver to take back control of the task of driving.

From a technical perspective the traffic jam pilot is revolutionary. During piloted driving, a central driver assistance controller (zFAS) now permanently computes an image of the surroundings by merging the sensor data. As well as the radar sensors, a front camera and the ultrasonic sensors, Audi is the first car manufacturer also to use a laser scanner. The introduction of the Audi AI traffic jam pilot means the statutory framework will need to be clarified in each individual market, along with the country-specific definition of the application and testing of the system. The brand’s high quality standards are equally applicable in the realm of highly automated driving. In addition, a range of approval procedures and their corresponding timescales will need to be observed worldwide. Audi will therefore be adopting a step-by-step approach to the introduction of the traffic jam pilot in production models.

The Audi AI remote parking pilot and the Audi AI remote garage pilot autonomously steer the A8 into and out of a parking space or a garage, while the maneuver is monitored by the driver. The driver need not be sitting in the car. They start the appropriate system from their smartphone using the new myAudi app. To monitor the parking maneuver, they hold the Audi AI button pressed to watch a live display from the car’s 360 degree cameras on their device.

New dimension: the suspension
With a whole package of innovations, the suspension revisits the very limits of what is physically possible. One such innovation is dynamic all-wheel steering, which combines direct, sporty steering with unshakable stability. The steering ratio for the front wheels varies as a function of speed; the rear wheels are turned in or against the direction of steering depending on the speed range. The car’s handling becomes even more dynamic and precise with the sport differential. This actively distributes the drive torque between the rear wheels, complementing the quattro permanent all-wheel drive that is now standard in the new A8.

The second new technology, Audi AI active suspension, is a fully active suspension system. Depending on the driver’s wishes and the driving situation, it is capable of raising or lowering each wheel separately with electric actuators. This flexibility imparts the driving characteristic with huge latitude – ranging from the smooth ride comfort of a classic luxury sedan to the dynamism of a sports car. In combination with pre sense 360°, the car is raised with lighting speed if there is an impending lateral collision, reducing the potential consequences of the accident for all occupants.

This highly innovative suspension system obtains the energy it requires from a 48-volt electrical system. Audi now for the first time fits it as the primary electrical system in all model versions of the A8. In conjunction with the advanced air suspension for the A8, the innovative suspension concept delivers an utterly new driving experience.

Mild hybrid and e-tron: the drives
The new A8 starts out in the German market with two extensively reengineered V6 turbo engines: a 3.0 TDI and a 3.0 TFSI. The diesel develops 210 kW (286 hp), and the gasoline version 250 kW (340 hp). Two eight-cylinder versions – a 4.0 TDI with 320 kW (435 hp) and a 4.0 TFSI with 338 kW (460 hp) – will follow slightly later. The exclusive top engine version is the W12 with a displacement of 6.0 liters. (These vehicles are not yet on sale. They do not yet have type approval and are therefore not subject to Directive 1999/94/EC.)

All five engines operate in conjunction with a belt alternator starter (BAS), which is the nerve center of the 48-volt electrical system. This mild hybrid technology (MHEV, mild hybrid electric vehicle) enables the car to coast with the engine switched off, and to restart smoothly. It also has an extended start/stop function and an energy recovery output of up to 12 kW. The combined effect of these measures is to bring down the fuel consumption of the already efficient engines even further – by as much as 0.7 liters (0.2 US gal) per 100 kilometers (62.1 mi) in real driving conditions.

The A8 L e-tron quattro with its powerful plug-in hybrid drive will follow at a later date (This vehicle is not yet on sale. It does not yet have type approval and is therefore not subject to Directive 1999/94/EC.): Its 3.0 TFSI and the powerful electric motor achieve 330 kW (449 hp) of system power and 700 Nm (516.3 lb-ft) of system torque. The lithium-ion battery stores enough power for about 50 kilometers (31.1 mi) of electric driving. It can optionally be charged by Audi Wireless Charging. A pad in the garage floor transfers the power inductively to a receiver coil in the automobile with a power output of 3.6 kW.

The new Audi A8 and A8 L are being built at the Neckarsulm site and will appear on the German market in late fall 2017. The starting price for the A8 is EUR 90,600, with the A8 L starting at EUR 94,100.

Only a couple months after Audi introduced the redesigned A5 and S5 coupes, the German automaker has revealed the updated Sportback model.

Think of the A5/S5 Sportback as an A7 that has been hit with a shrink ray. Various design details such as a new grille, reshaped headlights, and redesigned bumper that premiered on the coupe are here on the Sportback. The interior follows the same design as the new A4 and A5. That means an 8.3-inch screen with Audi's MMI infotainment system and the option of Audi Virtual Cockpit that swaps the standard instrument cluster for a 12.3-inch screen. 

For the European market, the A5 will be available with two TFSI gas engines, three TDI engines, and Audi's g-tron powertrain - able to run on gas, natural gas, or Audi's e-gas (synthetic type of gasoline). Front-wheel drive comes standard, while quattro all-wheel drive is an option. The S5 will feature a turbocharged 3.0L V6 354 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. quattro all-wheel drive will come standard.

Audi will be showing the 2017 A5 and S5 Sportback at the Paris Motor Show. Sales will begin in January for Europe. As for the U.S., Audi is currently deciding whether or not the Sportback comes. 

Source: Audi

Press Release is on Page 2

The new Audi A5 and S5 Sportback - design meets functionality

• New look, greater efficiency and lots of space in the interior
• Alternative drive: Audi A5 g-tron runs on e-gas, natural gas or gasoline
• Power pack: Audi S5 with 354 hp and 500 Nm (368.8 lb-ft) of torque 

Seven years after the birth of the A5 Sportback*, the new version now makes its appearance. The five-door coupé blends elegant, emotional design with high functionality and abundant interior comfort. The family-friendly car is perfectly connected and offers the latest infotainment features. Plus, the second generation comes with a completely reengineered suspension, high-performance drives and innovative driver assistance systems. The S5* takes to the road with a new six-cylinder turbo engine developing a mighty 354 hp and 500 Nm (368.8 lb-ft). In a new departure, the A5 Sportback is also available as a bivalent g-tron*, which customers can run on either Audi e-gas, natural gas or gasoline.

Exterior design
The Audi designers have brought together dramatic shapes and athletically taut surfaces in the design of the new A5 Sportback. The stretched wheelbase, the short overhangs and the long, wraparound front lid with power dome emphasize the dynamism of the five-door coupé. The three-dimensionally modeled Singleframe grille is significantly flatter and wider than on the previous model.

The wave-pattern shoulder line imparts the A5 Sportback with emotional elegance. It is even more strongly accentuated than on the previous model and traces all three dimensions. This creates an interplay of light and shadow. The pronounced bulges over the wheel arches underscore the quattro DNA. The rear end exhibits horizontal, equally highly precise styling. 
The stretched luggage compartment lid terminates with a characteristic spoiler edge.

Interior
The new Audi S5 Sportback has grown significantly inside. Its interior length has gained 17 millimeters (0.7 in), the shoulder room for driver and front passenger up to 11 millimeters (0.4 in) and the rear knee room 24 millimeters (0.9 in). The sophisticated materials, precision of fit and color harmonies in the interior are typical of Audi. The horizontal architecture of the instrument panel creates a sense of spaciousness. The optional ambient lighting with 30 colors to choose from always evokes a fitting interior mood.

With 480 liters (17.0 cu ft) of luggage capacity, the A5 Sportback rates among the best in its class. Audi also offers the option of sensor control for opening and closing the standard-fit electric luggage compartment lid.

Display and controls
Thanks to the all-new operating and display concept, including free-text search, the driver can control all functions effortlessly and intuitively. As an alternative to the standard-fit analog instrument dials, there is the Audi virtual cockpit. The various display options bring the driver added convenience. The large, high-resolution TFT monitor (12.3 inches) presents richly detailed graphics. The optional head-up display projects all relevant information onto the windscreen as easily comprehensible symbols and digits, thus enabling the driver to keep their eyes on the road.

Infotainment and Audi connect
Audi’s top version is MMI navigation plus with MMI touch. It includes such features as 10 GB of flash storage, a DVD drive, Audi connect services free of charge for three years, up to five free navigation updates and an 8.3-inch monitor with a resolution of 1,024 x 480 pixels. Audi MMI navigation plus works in close cooperation with many of the assistance and safety systems.

The Audi smartphone interface integrates iOS and Android cellphones in an environment specially developed for them in the MMI. The Audi phone box connects smartphones to the on-board antenna to provide superior reception quality. It also charges the smartphone inductively, without any wires, using the Qi standard. The Bang & Olufsen Sound System with innovative 3D sound opens up the spatial dimension of height and gives the driver the sense of sitting in a concert hall. Its amplifier supplies 755 watts of power to 19 loudspeakers. The Audi tablet serves as a flexible Rear Seat Entertainment device, both inside and outside the car.

Driver assistance systems
The driver assistance systems cover a wide range of functions in the new Audi A5 Sportback. An intelligent combination of different technologies enhances safety, comfort and efficiency. Meanwhile Audi is also taking the next step toward piloted driving.

Playing a central role here is the adaptive cruise control (ACC) Stop&Go system including traffic jam assist. It relieves drivers in slow-moving traffic up to a driving speed of 65 km/h (40.4 mph) by assuming the tasks of braking and accelerating the car, and it also temporarily takes charge of steering it on better roads. The predictive efficiency assistant, which evaluates GPS information from the car’s immediate surroundings, helps to save fuel by giving specific driving advice – a unique feature in this segment.

Collision avoidance assist intervenes if the car needs to drive around an obstacle to avoid an accident. Based on data from the front camera, ACC and radar sensors, it computes a recommended driving line within a fraction of a second. The lineup is rounded out by other assistance systems such as turn assist, park assist, cross traffic assist rear, exit warning, camera-based traffic sign recognition, Audi active lane assist and Audi side assist.

Suspension
The wide track and comparatively long wheelbase are key features of the balanced, sporty suspension tuning. The track width is 1,587 millimeters (62.5 in) at the front and 1,568 millimeters (61.7 in) at the rear. The wheelbase measures 2,824 millimeters (111.2 in).

The front axle features redesigned five-link suspension, while a five-link construction replaces the trapezoidal-link rear suspension used previously. The adaptive dampers available optionally are integrated into the standard Audi drive select dynamic handling system. They make for a driving experience that is both dynamic and comfortable. The new electromechanical power steering provides better road feedback and steering precision. Optionally available is dynamic steering, which varies its gear ratio depending on the speed and steering angle.

Engines and drivetrain
Customers can choose between two TFSI and three TDI engine versions for the new Audi A5 Sportback. They produce between 140 kW (190 hp) and 210 kW (286 hp) of power. Compared with the previous model, Audi has reduced their fuel consumption by as much as 22 percent while increasing power output by up to 17 percent.

Six-speed manual transmission, seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission or eight-speed tiptronic – there is tailor-made drivetrain technology available for every engine version. Front-wheel drive is standard, with quattro all-wheel drive available as an option in two versions. It is standard for the 3.0 TDI with 210 kW (286 hp).

The V6 turbo engine accelerates the equally new Audi S5 Sportback from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 4.7 seconds, and on up to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.3 mph). It features quattro and the eight-speed tiptronic as standard. In a new departure, the Ingolstadt carmaker now also includes a bivalent A5 Sportback g-tron in its range. Its 
2.0 TFSI engine develops 125 kW (170 hp) and can run on Audi e-gas or natural gas, but also on gasoline.

Body and equipment
The body of the new Audi A5 Sportback is the lightest in the segment. An intelligent mix of materials makes it 15 kilograms (33.1 lb) lighter than that of the predecessor. The overall weight of the new generation has fallen by as much as 85 kilograms (187.4 lb) to just 1,470 kilograms (3,240.8 lb), excluding the driver.

Audi offers the model with an upgraded list of standard equipment that includes a wide range of extra functions. The new lines concept with various equipment packages enhances the scope for individual design expression.

The new Audi A5 and S5 Sportback will roll into showrooms in Germany and other European countries at the start of 2017. The A5 Sportback starts from EUR 37,800. The price for the S5 is EUR 62,500.

Tonight in Ingolstadt, Audi revealed the new 2017 A5 and S5 coupes. You might look and wonder what's different about the new model compared to old - it looks the same. We can't fault you for thinking that. The only real change that most people will be able to pick out is the slightly wider grille up front. Audi has improved the overall aerodynamics with a class-leading 0.25 drag coefficient.

At least the interior does reveal some significant changes. Much like the A4, the A5 gets a new dash design with minimal clutter and an 8.3-inch screen. Audi's 12.3-inch virtual cockpit system is available. The A5 will also be the first Audi model to feature the automaker's connect SIM, a SIM card that permanently installed in the vehicle to an provide LTE data connection. For Europe, the A5 will be offered with two gas and three diesel engines. Power ranges from 190 to 286 horsepower. There will be the choice of either a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic, along with front or quattro all-wheel drive.

The S5 features a new 3.0L supercharged V6 with 354 horsepower, up 21 horsepower from the previous model. An eight-speed automatic and quattro all-wheel drive comes standard.

Despite a longer wheelbase and wider tracks, Audi says the new A5 is about 132.5 pounds lighter than the outgoing model.

Audi is planning to launch the A5 coupe later this year in Europe, with the U.S. following sometime after. Expect to see the convertible and sportback later on.

Source: Audi

Press Release is on Page 2

Sporty elegance – the new Audi A5 and S5 Coupé

• World premiere: New design highlight from Ingolstadt
• Powerful six-cylinder engines for more driving pleasure and efficiency
• High tech interior with Audi virtual cockpit and Audi connect
  

Audi revolutionized its mid-size class in 2007 with the A5. The Ingolstadt-based carmaker created a work of art that took fans around the world by storm. Nine years later marks the launch of the second generation – with a new, honed look and high tech everywhere. The new generation of the A5 Coupé* is athletic, sporty and elegant. Its design goes hand in hand with sophisticated aerodynamics. Under the skin the A5 impresses with an all-new chassis, powerful engines, and innovative infotainment features and driver assistance systems.

How do you make a design masterpiece even more beautiful? Audi designers have been pondering this question for years. The results are impressive: The new Audi A5 Coupé* sports a fresh, modern and honed look. It is nevertheless true to its DNA with the sporty and elegant character being passed down to the new version. The best example is the now three-dimensional wave-shaped shoulder line that already characterized the previous model. The precisely sweeping line with pronounced bulges over the wheel arches emphasizes all four wheels – a cue to the quattro all-wheel drive.

The perfectly balanced proportions with a long engine hood, the stretched wheelbase and short overhangs underscore the sportiness of the new A5 Coupé. The sculpted Singleframe grille is significantly flatter and wider than in the previous model. The LED rear lights and optional LED or Matrix LED headlights with dynamic turn signals make high-end technology visible even after dark.

Engines
The new Audi A5 Coupé* will launch in Germany with five engines: two TFSI and three TDI units. Their power output has increased considerably and is now between 140 kW (190 hp) and 210 kW (286 hp). Compared with the previous model, they offer up to 17 percent more performance while consuming as much as 22 percent less fuel. All the engines combine high efficiency with sporty power development and smooth running – especially the two 3.0 TDI six-cylinder engines.

With its newly developed 3.0 TFSI, the Audi S5 Coupé* is now in a league of its own. The turbo V6 exhibits highly efficient, sports car-like performance. From its 2,995 cc of displacement, the boosted six-cylinder engine produces 260 kW (354 hp) of power, which is 15 kW (21 hp) more than the engine in the previous model.

Drivetrain
The new Audi A5 Coupé* comes with a drivetrain solution tailor-made for each engine variant. The manual six-speed gearbox and the seven-speed S tronic are used with the four-cylinder engines as well as the 160 kW (218 hp) 3.0 TDI with front- or all-wheel drive. The eight-speed tiptronic is reserved for the top diesel with 210 kW (286 hp) and the S5 engine*. Both engines come standard with quattro all-wheel drive. Audi also offers the optional rear-axle sport differential for even more dynamic driving and precision.

The new quattro with ultra technology is also available for the first time. At the moment it can be combined with the four-cylinder TFSI and TDI engines with manual transmission. Optimized for efficiency, the drive system does not exhibit any perceptible differences to permanent systems in terms of traction and driving dynamics.

Chassis
The all-new chassis is among the strengths of the Audi A5 Coupé*. It offers the driver optimal comfort combined with a high degree of agility. The A5 thus handles narrow, winding mountain roads and long trips on the Autobahn with equal aplomb. Audi offers a suspension with damper control as an option. This is integrated into the dynamic handling system known as Audi drive select, which enables the driver to modify the basic characteristic in multiple steps.

The electromechanical power steering is also a new development from Audi. It adapts according to the vehicle’s current speed and provides highly precise road feedback. Optionally available is the dynamic steering, which varies its gear ratio depending on the speed and steering angle.

Body
The Audi A5 Coupé* is significantly more efficient than its predecessor. This is due in large part to a reduction in weight as well as sophisticated aerodynamics. The engineers were able to trim the curb weight by as much as 60 kilograms (132.3 lb). The body is the lightest in the competitive field thanks to an intelligent mix of materials and lightweight design. With a drag coefficient of 0.25, the A5 Coupé is also the segment leader with respect to aerodynamics.

Interior
The interior benefits from the increased dimensions and longer wheelbase. Space for driver and passengers is more generous. The horizontal architecture of the instrument panel and the continuous air vent strip create a wide sense of space.

As is typical for Audi, interior build quality is uncompromisingly high. High-quality materials in a wide range of colors provide for a particularly pleasant ambiance and underscore the premium character of the mid-sized model. Optional ambient lighting highlights the interior with a choice of 30 adjustable shades. The new
A5 Coupé* also redefines the class benchmark for aeroacoustics. The acoustic comfort is almost that of a luxury class model.

The luggage compartment offers a volume of 465 liters (16.4 cu ft), 10 liters
(0.4 cu ft) more than with the previous model. The rear seat has a 40:20:40 split and can be easily folded forward using levers in the luggage compartment. Audi also offers the two-door coupé with optional gesture control for opening the luggage compartment lid via a foot motion. The optional trailer hitch is electrically released at the press of a button.

Display and controls
The A5 Coupé* is now available for the first time with the optional Audi virtual cockpit, a 12.3-inch TFT display with a resolution of 1,440 x 540 pixels. Together with the MMI navigation plus including 8.3-inch monitor on the center console, it forms the central information unit. The focal point of the MMI terminal is the round rotary pushbutton. Its surface is home to the touch-sensitive touchpad. The touchpad is used to input characters and also for multifinger gestures, enabling the driver to zoom in on the map, for example. The whole MMI control logic is similar to that of a smartphone, including the intelligent free text search function. The new, more natural voice control system can recognize input made using everyday language, such as: “I would like to call Peter.”

Infotainment and Audi connect
Customers choosing MMI navigation plus automatically also get the hardware module Audi connect and the new Audi connect SIM, a SIM card permanently installed in the car. The new Audi A5 Coupé* uses this to connect to the Internet via the ultrafast LTE network. Use of the versatile Audi connect services is free of charge of three years, both in Germany and in most European countries. The respective national provider is selected automatically as needed.

Independent of the integrated Audi connect services, customers can also purchase optional data packages for individual Internet use using the Wi-Fi hotspot. This allows all passengers to surf the Web and send/receive email with up to eight mobile devices at attractive rates.

The A5 can also be equipped with the optional Audi connect safety & service package. This includes such functions as an automatic emergency call in the event of an accident, online roadside assistance and Audi service request as well as remote functions that can be used with the MMI connect app on a smartphone, smartwatch or – in conjunction with the fourth generation Apple TV – from a television. Examples include locking and unlocking the car, checking where the car is parked and calling up the vehicle status.

With the Audi smartphone interface, Apple Car Play and Android Auto bring the familiar smartphone environment to the car, if desired. The optional Audi phone box with wireless charging in the center armrest uses near-field coupling to link smartphones wirelessly to the vehicle’s antenna and enables inductive charging according to the Qi standard. For very discerning hi-fi fans, the Bang & Olufsen sound system with its innovative 3D sound is available as an option.

Driver assistance systems
An intelligent combination of different technologies enhances the safety, comfort and efficiency of the new Audi A5 Coupé*. At the same time, Audi is also taking the next step toward piloted driving. The broad choice of innovative driver assistance systems sets standards in the segment. Compared with the previous model, nearly all of the systems are either completely new or have been extensively updated.

The predictive efficiency assistant helps the driver save fuel, Audi active lane assist helps keep the car on track in the driving lane, and the Stop&Go adaptive cruise control including traffic jam assist offers the driver relief in slow-moving traffic. New and important safety features include the park assist, cross traffic assist rear, exit warning, collision avoidance assist and turn assist as well as the Audi pre sense systems. Camera-based recognition of traffic signs rounds out the lineup.

The new Audi A5 Coupé will launch in Germany and additional European countries in fall 2016. Compared with the previous model, the list of standard equipment is even more generous. Among the features included are xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED rear lights, LED interior lights, the Audi MMI radio plus with 7-inch MMI color display, Bluetooth and USB charging function, the three-spoke multifunction steering wheel (including shift paddles in models with automatic transmission), height-adjustable belt feeds, the Audi drive select dynamic handling system and Audi pre sense city.

New trim lines provide numerous customization opportunities, for both the interior and the exterior. Besides the base model, there are also the sport and design lines. The S line sport package and the Audi design selection are available for sophisticated customization, particularly for the interior. Audi offers the S line exterior package for a particularly dynamic appearance.

The Audi S5 Coupé
From 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 4.7 seconds. The new Audi S5 Coupé* combines dramatic elegance with the performance of a sports car. Its newly developed, turbocharged V6 engine produces 260 kW (354 hp) and consumes just 7.3 liters of fuel per 100 km (32.2 US mpg). The sharper S exterior design and the S-specific details in the interior underscore the dynamic character of the Audi two-door sports coupé.

Audi chose the Beijing Auto Show to reveal the 2017 TT RS family. Offered in coupe and roadster, the TT RS boasts a new 2.5L TFSI five-cylinder engine with 400 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Compared the old TT RS, the 2.5L boasts 40 more horsepower and 11 more pound-feet. This engine only comes paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and Audi's quattro all-wheel drive.

The TT RS coupe can hit 62 mph in 3.7 seconds while the roadster does it in 3.9 seconds. Here is an interesting fact, the TT RS coupe is only 0.2 seconds slower than the current Audi R8 to 62 mph. Top speed stands at 155 mph, but can be increased to 174 mph through an option that removes the limiter.

The suspension has been lowered by 10 millimeters and you can option a set of adaptive dampers with magnetic ride technology. 19-inch wheels and a set large brakes come standard. A set of 20-inch wheels and carbon-fiber ceramic brake discs are on the options list.

Outside, the TT RS features a more aggressive body kit with larger air vents on the bumper, rear wing, side skirts, and carbon fiber side mirrors.

Audi will launch the TT RS this fall in Europe. No word when we'll see it in North America, but it would be safe to assume it would be sometime next year.

Source: Audi

Press Release is on Page 2

Stronger than ever: new Audi TT RS Coupé and new Audi TT RS Roadster

• Impressive: new aluminum five-cylinder engine with 294 kW (400 hp)
• Available for the first time in a series-production Audi: OLED rear lights
• Controls like a racing car: numerous functions on the RS sport steering wheel
  

The sound: inimitable five-cylinder. The performance: tremendous at 294 kW (400 hp). The traction: inexhaustible thanks to quattro drive. As the sporty spearhead of the TT series, the new TT RS* is to be marketed under the Audi Sport label. At the Beijing Motor Show, Audi is presenting its Coupé and its Roadster for the first time to the world’s public. Sales in Europe will begin in fall 2016.

“The new aluminum five-cylinder engine delivers 400 hp, which is 60 hp more than its predecessor,” says Dr.-Ing. Stefan Knirsch, Audi Board Member for Technical Development. “Together with the quattro drive, it ensures sporty driving pleasure with maximum traction. Audi uses Matrix OLED technology in the rear lights for the first time.”

Impressive performance: the new five-cylinder engine
A jury of international motor journalists has voted the 2.5 TFSI “Engine of the Year” six times in a row. Now Audi has further developed the five-cylinder engine in all areas – with lightweight construction measures, reduced internal friction and increased power delivery. As a result, the turbo engine gains a good 17 percent increase in performance at an unchanged capacity of 2,480 cc. At 294 kW (400 hp), it is more powerful than ever before. The maximum torque of 480 Nm (354.0 lb-ft) is available between 1,700 and 5,850 rpm. It ensures fantastic pulling power, which accompanies the unmistakable sound. Cylinders positioned directly beside each other and far away from each other fire in alternation. This brings with it a very special rhythm. The TT RS Coupé accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62.1 mph) in 3.7 seconds, the Roadster in 3.9 seconds – this corresponds to the level of a supercar. Audi regulates the top speed at 250 km/h (155.3 mph), or at 280 km/h (173.9 mph) upon request.

For the best traction and plenty of driving pleasure: the quattro drive
The forces of the 2.5 TFSI engine flow via a seven-speed S tronic, which shifts at lightning speed, to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive. Its multi-plate clutch distributes the power freely between the axles. This provides strong grip and immense driving pleasure. The wheel-selective torque control makes handling even more agile and safe. Using the Audi drive select system, the driver can influence the quattro drive and other components such as the steering, S tronic, engine characteristic and exhaust flaps. The four modes available for this are comfort, auto, dynamic, and individual.

Pure dynamics: the chassis
In addition to its light weight, the Audi TT RS has its sporty chassis to thank for its outstanding handling. The direct steering provides close contact with the road and makes it a pleasure to drive challenging winding stretches. At the front axle, ventilated and perforated steel discs are in action behind the 19-inch wheels – or 20-inch forged lightweight wheels as an option. Alternatively, lighter and particularly abrasion-resistant carbon-fiber ceramic discs are available. At the back, a steel monoblock disc is used. As an option, Audi supplies RS sport suspension plus adaptive dampers in magnetic ride technology. In this case, the damping characteristics can be influenced electronically. The control technology is integrated into the driving dynamics system known as Audi drive select.

New feature: Matrix OLED lights
For the first time in a series-production Audi, Matrix OLED technology (organic light emitting diode) is used in the rear lights as an option. These emit an extremely homogeneous, high-contrast light. The light can be continuously dimmed, it does not cast any shadows and does not require any reflectors – this makes the OLEDs in 3D design efficient, light and visually impressive. Each rear light contains four wafer-thin units which become smaller from the inside out. The biggest bears the TT logo and the four Audi rings. The TT RS has LED rear lights and LED headlights as standard. Alternatively, the latter are available as intelligently controlled Matrix LED units.

Athletically streamlined: the exterior design
Large air inlets, a Singleframe grille with a newly designed honeycomb grille and quattro logo, a fixed rear wing and two large, oval exhaust tailpipes – the new TT RS Coupé and the new TT RS Roadster exude concentrated power. Along the flanks, aerodynamically-shaped side sills emphasize the dynamic design. Both models measure 4.19 meters (13.9 ft) in length, 1.83 meters (6 ft) in width and 1.34 meters (4.5 ft) in height.

Inspired by racing cars: the cockpit
Controls and display in the new TT RS are focused completely on the driver. All information is displayed as standard on the fully digital Audi virtual cockpit with 12.3-inch screen. The driver can choose from three views, including a special RS screen that highlights the rev counter and provides information on tire pressure, torque, and g‑force, among other things. The Audi virtual cockpit also displays a shift light which informs the driver that the engine speed limit has been reached. For the first time in the RS portfolio, the RS sport leather steering wheel with shift paddles has two operating satellite buttons for turning the engine on and off as well as the driving dynamics system known as Audi drive select, in addition to multifunction buttons. This means that the driver’s hands stay on the wheel at all times. The driver can influence the exhaust flap control via the sound button on the center console.

Best entertainment: infotainment and Audi connect
Audi also offers a huge amount of high-end infotainment technology. The options include MMI navigation plus with MMI touch including free text search and natural voice control, as well as the Audi connect online module with Wi-Fi hotspot. Using Audi phone box, compatible cell phones can be charged inductively and paired with the onboard antennae for optimal reception. The new Audi smartphone interface technology displays selected apps from the cell phone directly in the Audi virtual cockpit. The Bang & Olufsen sound system is a highlight for fans of excellent acoustics.

Golden Fall: market launch
The new TT RS models will be launched on the European market in fall 2016. The Coupé prices start at 66,400 euros, the Roadster is listed at 69,200 euros.

Audi had one more surprise up their sleeve this week. Today, the German automaker announced the SQ7. Positioned as the high-performance model, the SQ7 uses a 4.0L turbodiesel V8 with 435 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque. This bests much of the competition when equipped with a diesel engine.

But that high torque figure isn't the big story, it is how the SQ7 produces all of that power. The 4.0L V8 uses two conventional, sequential turbochargers and an electric compressor - a first in a production model. The electric compressor sits in the air path downstream of the intercooler, near the engine. Since it uses electric power to generate boost pressure (not exhaust gases), Audi says this eliminates turbo lag. Audi claims a 0-62 mph of 4.8 seconds and a limited top speed of 155 mph.

Audi has also introduced an optional roll stabilization system that uses an electric motor and a three-stage planetary gearbox that separates the two halves of the stabilizer bars. On uneven surfaces, the system separates the bars to provide a smooth ride. In sporting situations, the bars brought together, adding stiffness to reduce roll.

With all of these added electric parts, how can the SQ7 keep up with the demand? Audi's engineers fitted a 48-volt electric subsystem to power all of these devices.

The Auid SQ7 will go on sale in Europe this spring. Will we see it in the U.S.? Possibly, but expect a gas engine.

Source: Audi

Press Release is on Page 2

Audi SQ7 TDI: Driving Innovation

• First S model in the Audi Q7 model line
• World first: electric powered compressor
• Also new at Audi: high-performance, 48‑volt electrical subsystem and electromechanical active roll stabilization
  

With 320 kW (435 hp) and 900 Nm (663.8 lb ft) of torque, the new Audi SQ7 TDI* is the most powerful diesel SUV on the market. It also leads the competition in numerous other technical fields. Its newly developed 4.0 TDI engine features a world first: An electric powered compressor gives the SQ7 TDI outstanding off-the-line performance. Yet it consumes on average 7.4 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (31.8 US mpg).

“Following the launch of the successful SQ5*, we are now also applying the concept of a diesel-engined S model to the Q7 model line. So equipped, the SQ7 TDI with a V8 TDI engine achieves the consumption figures of a six-cylinder. The new technology solution of the electric powered compressor in the SQ7 TDI is a world first in the competitive environment, with which Audi once again underscores its claim Vorsprung durch Technik,” said Dr. Stefan Knirsch, Member of the Board of Management of AUDI AG for Technical Development.

Forced induction: Three chargers working together
The 4.0 TDI has been newly developed from the ground up. It combines best-in-class performance with low consumption and guarantees maximum dynamics. The V8 engine has a displacement of 3,956 cc. The two exhaust-gas turbochargers are activated selectively according to the concept of sequential charging, since exhaust gas only flows through one turbocharger at low and intermediate load. The second turbine is only activated at higher loads. An electric powered compressor (EPC) augments the work of the two turbochargers, particularly in the lower engine speed range, providing for extremely dynamic off-the-line performance.

With 320 kW (435 hp) and 900 Nm (663.8 lb‑ft) of torque between 1,000 and 3,250 revolutions per minute, the SUV sets new benchmarks in the segment. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 4.8 seconds; top speed is 250 km/h (155.3 mph) (governed). In the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), it consumes 7.4 liters per 100 kilometers (31.8 US mpg). This corresponds to CO2 emissions of 194 grams per kilometer (312.2 g/mi).

Forced induction concept and electrical system: Electric powered compressor (EPC) and 48‑volt subsystem
The electric powered compressor is a world first in a production vehicle. This EPC strongly supports the 4.0 TDI engine when starting off and accelerating from low load for pure dynamics with no turbo lag. It is placed in the air path downstream of the intercooler, close to the engine. Because the EPC does not require any exhaust-gas energy to develop boost, it can be used at any time, thus making it the solution for the traditional weaknesses of the classic exhaust-gas turbocharger. With this technology, turbo lag is history. The EPC provides the engine the boost energy needed for the dynamic delivery of power in less than 250 milliseconds. Driven by a compact electric motor, its compressor wheel spins up to 70,000 revolutions per minute. The 4.0 TDI thus develops its immense power with no perceptible lag: It is available immediately upon depressing the accelerator. That is a major plus, particularly when starting off.

The Audi valvelift system (AVS) is also making its debut in a diesel model from Audi. The inlet and exhaust cam shafts each have two cam contours per valve. On the inlet side, one cam contour supports starting off in conjunction with the EPC, while the other optimizes cylinder filling and thus power at high engine speeds. The AVS system on the exhaust side enables activation of the second exhaust-gas turbocharger. The sequential charging system controls the two exhaust-gas turbochargers so that only one turbocharger is used at low engine speeds. The second is activated additionally at higher loads and engine speeds. The customer benefits from very good torque delivery and dynamic response across the entire engine speed range.

The exhaust streams from the two exhaust valves are hermetically separated, with each driving one of the two turbochargers. In the lower engine speed range, one valve per cylinder remains closed, so that the full exhaust stream flows to the active turbocharger. When load and engine speed increase, the AVS opens the second exhaust valves. This directs flow to and activates the second exhaust-gas turbocharger. The engine achieves its maximum output in this biturbo mode. The switching by the AVS enables fast and precise activation of the second exhaust-gas turbine.

The power for the EPC, which reaches a maximum of 7 kW, is provided by the 48‑volt electrical subsystem. The SQ7 TDI uses this higher-power electrical system, which facilitates the high-power systems electromechanical active roll stabilization (EAWS) and EPC. To meet their high power and energy requirements, the electrical subsystem includes its own 48‑volt lithium-ion battery mounted beneath the luggage compartment with a nominal energy content of 470 watt-hours and peak output of up to 13 kilowatts. A DC/DC converter connects the 48‑volt and 12‑volt electrical systems. The required energy is provided by a more powerful and highly efficient generator with an efficiency of over 80 percent at an output of up to 3 kW. This is a so-called MOSFET generator (Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor), which reduces electric losses and increases efficiency. MOFSETs replace the diodes used previously. In addition, the 48‑volt storage unit supports the 12‑volt electrical system when required. This also reduces the load on the 12‑volt lead battery.

V8 TDI – further technical highlights
The intake side of the 4.0 TDI is on the outside, the exhaust side with the two turbochargers is on the inside of the 90-degree internal V. This layout provides for short gas paths, i.e. spontaneous response and short paths for the emissions control system. The common-rail system generates up to 2,500 bars of injection pressure. Ignition pressure reaches the 200‑bar mark in broad sections of the characteristic.

The innovative thermal management and sophisticated measures in the crankshaft and camshaft drive reduce friction. With the combination of a NOx oxidating catalytic converter and a downstream SCR catalytic converter, which is integrated into the diesel particulate filter and uses AdBlue injection to reduce oxides of nitrogen, the V8 TDI has a particularly efficient emissions control system. A sound actuator in the exhaust system amplifies the sonorous eight-cylinder sound. SQ7 TDI drivers can choose how much attention they want to draw to themselves by using the Audi drive select system to vary the amount of sound.

The biturbo V8 combined with the EPC is a core element of the global Audi diesel strategy. With high torque even at low engine speeds and low consumption figures, it is also ideally suited for markets such as the United States. Its engine characteristic combines supreme pulling power with sporty agility – ample off-the-line performance and spontaneous response.

High efficiency: The eight-speed tiptronic
The 4.0 TDI in the Audi SQ7 TDI works with strong partners. The proof is in the road behavior, from extremely comfortable cruising on the Autobahn to dynamic handling on mountain passes. The redesigned eight-speed tiptronic is impressively efficient. It changes gears extremely quickly and efficiently, and at high speeds allows coasting at idle. A self-locking center differential is the heart of the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. It is compact, lightweight and interacts very precisely with the suspension control system.

The maxim of lightweight construction also applies to the suspension – its links are made primarily of aluminum. Electromechanical power steering, the Audi drive select driving dynamics system and adaptive air suspension with S-specific tuning are standard. An optional brake system with extremely lightweight carbon fiber-ceramic disks will follow shortly after the market launch. Audi offers the SUV with 20‑inch wheels on 285/45 tires, with options up to 22 inches from the quattro GmbH program.

Networked suspension control
Audi offers the SQ7 TDI with an optional driving dynamics package comprising three technology modules: sport differential, electromechanical active roll stabilization and all-wheel steering. The highly integrated suspension control unit is used in the SQ7 TDI. It assumes the central control of the adjustable shock absorbers, the air springs, the sport differential and roll force distribution. By bundling all relevant suspension functions into a central control unit, the developers achieved an optimal networking and coordination of the functions among themselves. The customer thus experiences outstanding handling in any situation.

Sporty or comfortable: Body roll stabilization
A new solution in the competitive environment is the electromechanical active body roll stabilization. Here a compact electric motor with a three-stage planetary gearbox separates the two halves of the stabilizer. On an uneven road surface, they are actively decoupled from one another, resulting in improved ride comfort. During sporty driving, the tubes are interconnected and twisted against each other. That significantly reduces body roll, i.e. the lean of the car. Together with the transmission, the electric motors produce anything up to 1,200 Nm (885.1 lb‑ft) of torque. The effect is taut, sporty handling: The car leans less in bends and the tendency to understeer is further reduced.

The front and rear stabilizer can be adjusted independently of each other. This active distribution of stabilizer forces between the front and rear axle has a positive effect on road behavior. Steering precision and the agility of the car improve significantly.

Compared with conventional hydraulically switched stabilizers, the 48‑volt-based system from Audi offers major advantages. It can develop more power, it works faster and it is activated even at low speeds. Because it requires no oil, the electromechanical active roll stabilization is also maintenance-free and environmentally friendly.

Bold road behavior and handling: All-wheel steering in combination with sporty and direct front-axle steering
With all-wheel steering, the rear wheels turn in by as much as five degrees, making parking easier. The more direct front-axle steering ratio of the SQ7 TDI improves the handling characteristics. Depending on the situation, the rear wheels steer opposite or in the same direction as the front wheels, improving dynamics and stability.

High agility in every curve: quattro with sport differential
For sporty drivers, it is one of the central objectives of road behavior: neutral handling up to the limit, even at high engine power. The optional sport differential provides stable and precise steering, particularly when accelerating dynamically out of curves. Variable torque between the wheels on the rear axle offers supreme control in curves. The SQ7 TDI is pressed precisely into the curve as a result. Even if the rear end starts to swing out, the quattro sport differential brings it back under control. This technology is available for the first time in the Q7 model line and is reserved exclusively for this top model.

Lightweight construction – innovative multimaterial construction
Thanks to systematic lightweight construction, the Audi SQ7 TDI is the lightest SUV in its segment, yet makes no compromises with respect to crash safety. The body features an innovative multimaterial construction. Hot-shaped and extremely strong sheets form the backbone of the occupant cell; the outer skin is made of aluminum. The center of mass is low – another factor for the sporty handling. The drag coefficient is an outstanding 0.34.

Powerful sportiness: Exterior styling
The new Audi SQ7 TDI strikes an impressive balance between powerful and intensified stylistic elements. At 5.07 meters (16.6 ft), it is approximately as long as the base model. The Audi DNA, such as the sculpted Singleframe radiator grille, distinctively highlighted wheels and flared quattro-style blisters, is unmistakable. All lines and surfaces are designed precisely and incisively, and accentuate the width of the car and thus the solidness of the overall concept. The SQ7 TDI has a new radiator grille with an S‑specific design at the bumpers. Other distinguishing features are the side air inlets, the mirror housings and door inlays in standard aluminum. The exhaust system terminates in four rectangular tailpipes.

Light – LED headlights standard
The headlights have a pronounced three-dimensional appearance overall with a double-arrow signature. The standard LED and optional Matrix LED headlights plus the dynamic rear turn signals underscore Audi’s leading role in lighting design and technology. With the LED and matrix LED headlights, the daytime running lights together with the turn signals form a double light guide arrow – a new and unique light signature within the Audi family. Each Matrix LED headlight divides its high beam into 30 individual light-emitting diodes paired with three reflectors. A camera on the interior mirror analyzes the traffic situation. Given this information, the control unit individually turns the diodes on and off, or dims them in 64 stages each, depending on the situation. With the millions of different resultant beam patterns, the high-end headlights superbly light up the road, without blinding other road users. Traffic signs are illuminated with less power so that the driver is not blinded by glare.

The functional range of the Matrix LED headlights also includes intelligent cornering lights, created by a shift in the light center position. If the car is equipped with the optional MMI navigation plus, this system’s route data will trigger the cornering light to illuminate around the corner just before the driver begins turning the steering wheel. The large LED rear lights vary the theme of the headlamps: The tail lights, activated when the ignition is turned on, create a double arrow like the headlights. The brake light is located in the two upper chambers; the interior of
the light has a three-dimensional appearance, with lightness and elegance.

The choice is yours: five seats or seven
Passengers in the Audi SQ7 TDI experience the largest interior in the segment. Audi offers the SUV with a choice of either five or seven seats. The second row comes standard with a three-section backrest with segments that can be folded down separately. The optional third row folds up and down electrically.

Interior quality with S-specific design language
More space in the interior sets a new benchmark in the segment. Diffuser vent wrap and application strips emphasize the horizontality and spaciousness of the interior. Comfort features are luxury-class. With the SQ7 TDI, customers have the choice between sport seats and sport seats plus. The sliding/folding seats provide for easier access to the optional third row. The power tailgate is standard. The SQ7 TDI boasts elegant design solutions in the interior, including analogue instruments with gray faces and white needles, special welcome screens and S badges.

The complete interior lighting including the luggage compartment employs LEDs. The first upgrade level, the lighting package, is standard. Capacitive (contactless) switches control the light in the door pockets and the reading lamp. The instrument panel and door trim contain so-called contour lighting – extremely slender LED light guides that follow the broad lines. Ambient lighting is also available. This includes lighted door sill trims and additional contour lighting on the center console. The top version allows the driver of the SQ7 TDI to customize the interior lighting. Via the MMI, the driver can adjust it in several profiles and in five zones, and regulate the color of the contour lighting in the “drive select” profile in 32 steps.

Markedly sporty: exclusive materials, colors and equipment features
The new SQ7 TDI is available in 12 colors. The distinctive radiator grille and underbody guard that encloses the four rectangular tailpipes are finished in twilight gray matt. Thanks to a wide range of equipment, the SQ7 TDI can be configured to be both sporty and elegant. Two-piece applications enable diverse material combinations and further individualization. The SQ7 TDI is also available with the design selection Kodiak brown: a full-leather interior with contrasting stitching, an Alcantara black headlining, sport seats plus with Valcona leather in Kodiak brown and contrasting stitching, and luxury velour floor mats. The two-piece trim strip of Sono aluminum and carbon twill copper is exclusively available for the SQ7 TDI.

High-resolution graphics: Audi virtual cockpit
With its 12.3‑inch display, the optional Audi virtual cockpit presents logically structured information in brilliant graphics. Driver ergonomics are excellent, and operation is intuitive. The driver chooses the display mode via the multifunction steering wheel. A head-up display is also available as an option.

The optional MMI navigation plus with MMI all‑in‑touch includes a large glass surface on the center tunnel console that provides the finger with haptic feedback after each click. The MMI logic allows for intuitive system operation and also understands terms from everyday speech.

Potent computing power: Infotainment and Audi connect
MMI navigation plus, the optional top-of-the-line infotainment system in the SQ7 TDI, uses the second-generation Modular Infotainment Platform. Thanks to the integrated LTE module and the Wi-Fi hotspot included in the Audi connect package, passengers can surf at high speed with their mobile devices. The Audi connect package brings comprehensive online functions on board.

New on the market is the Audi connect safety & service package, which also includes the myCarManager package. With this, customers can use their smartphone to lock and unlock the car or check the vehicle status, for example.

Another infotainment highlight is the Audi smartphone interface. In the car, a tailored environment on the MMI monitor makes it easy to control smartphones with iOS or the Android operating system.

The sound systems in the SQ7 TDI are as innovative as they are upscale. In the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System, the digital signal processor drives 11 channels with a total of 23 speakers in such a way that the sound is equally precise and harmonious in every seat. Four speakers installed in the A‑pillars and driven via separate channels broadcast those elements that generate the spatial height, creating a big virtual stage. Newly developed speakers and an amplifier with 1,920 watts guarantee musical enjoyment at the highest level. The Bose Surround Sound system, which generates the surround sound with 19 speakers, also features two speakers located higher up in the A‑pillars to produce the third dimension.

Optionally, two Audi tablets can be docked in the backs of the front seats. This solution is currently the only removable rear seat entertainment system available in the segment as standard. The Audi tablets make the premium infotainment accessible to the rear passengers as well. With integrated entertainment media and the navigation system from the infotainment system, the Audi tablets bring the full functionality of current high-end Android tablets to the car.

Simply the best: Driver assistance systems
The SQ7 TDI offers a wide range of 24 driver assistance systems to help drivers travel safely, fuel-efficiently and comfortably. The predictive efficiency assistant, for example, provides additional information in the instrument cluster to help the driver save fuel. The standard Audi pre sense city – an anticipatory warning and emergency breaking function for avoiding accidents and protecting pedestrians – makes the SQ7 TDI even safer.

The adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist relieves the driver in slow-moving traffic on well-paved roads by taking over the steering in many situations. The predictive ACC enables the anticipatory adjustment of driving speed to the route and speed limits, such as when entering towns.

In Europe, the Audi SQ7 TDI can be ordered beginning spring 2016. It will be offered in Germany for a base price of €89,900. This price includes a significantly expanded range of standard equipment, valued at approx. €10,000, compared with the base model. Examples include LED headlights, 20-inch wheels, sportily contoured bumpers and door trim strips, adaptive air suspension with S-specific tuning, electrically adjustable and heated sport seats in Alcantara and leather, brushed aluminum inlays, 3-spoke multifunction sport steering wheel with shift paddles, anti-theft alarm and an enlarged tank with 85-liter capacity. In addition, the Audi SQ7 TDI is also the first production vehicle to feature an electric powered compressor with a 48-volt electrical subsystem. The factory-installed sound exhaust system provides for a sporty, unmistakeable V8 sound.

Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, head of Audi's r&d has stepped down today.

Hackenberg has been a key presence at Audi and the Volkswagen group since he joined in 1985. He has played a major role in a number of projects including the first-generation Audi TT, Volkswagen XL1, and the MQB modular platform. In 2013, he was named the head of Audi's r&d division.

Hackenberg made headlines back in September as he and two other r&d heads at Volkswagen - Porsche's Wolfgang Hatz and Volkswagen's Heinz-Jakob Neusser - were suspended for possible involvement in the diesel scandal.

“In the 30 years that he was active in the Volkswagen Group, Ulrich Hackenberg was involved in crucial strategies and model decisions. The highly flexible modular system resulted in flexible modular production. Both systems helped us to produce very efficiently and with high quality. Numerous car models from Audi, Volkswagen and Bentley were significantly affected by his commitment and expertise. On behalf of the entire Board of Management, I thank him for his many years of commitment and his professional passion,” said Audi’s Board of Management Chairman Rupert Stadler.

Hackenberg's successor is Stephan Knirsch, currently the head of engine development at Audi.

Source: Audi

Press Release is on Page 2

Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg has reached a mutual agreement with the Supervisory Board of AUDI AG to step down as Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development.

The new Chairman of the Audi Supervisory Board, Matthias Müller, praised Hackenberg’s significant impact on the Technical Development divisions of the entire Volkswagen Group: “Above all, the modular toolkit system is inseparably connected with the name of Ulrich Hackenberg. He had that idea already in the early nineties at Audi. Today, the entire Group profits from it.”

Audi’s Board of Management Chairman Rupert Stadler underscored his lifetime achievements: “In the 30 years that he was active in the Volkswagen Group, Ulrich Hackenberg was involved in crucial strategies and model decisions. The highly flexible modular system resulted in flexible modular production. Both systems helped us to produce very efficiently and with high quality. Numerous car models from Audi, Volkswagen and Bentley were significantly affected by his commitment and expertise. On behalf of the entire Board of Management, I thank him for his many years of commitment and his professional passion.”

After graduating in mechanical engineering at Aachen RWTH University, Ulrich Hackenberg was employed as an assistant at the Institute for Motor Transport from 1978 until 1985. Amongst other positions there, he was the head of research into vehicle dynamics, developed lectures in motorcycle technology and gained a doctorate in 1985 on the stability properties of the “rider-motorcycle-road” system.

Hackenberg moved to Audi in 1985, where he took over the position of Head of Concept Development in 1989 and later led the technical project management for the entire product range. That included the Audi 80, A2, A3, A4, A6, A8 and TT models as well as numerous concept studies and show cars, the technical conception of the modular toolkit strategy and the development of a simultaneous-engineering structure.

He was active in the Volkswagen Group from 1998 until 2002. There, he was head of the Body Development department and additionally responsible as of late 1998 for Concept Development.

From 2002 until January 2007, Hackenberg once again worked for AUDI AG and was in charge of the Concept Development, Body Development, Electrics and Electronics departments. During that time, he developed the “modular longitudinal toolkit.”

On February 1,2007, he became Member of Volkswagen’s Brand Board of Management with responsibility for the Technical Development division. He pushed forward with the further development and complete renewal of the Volkswagen product range and the development of the modular transverse toolkit. Further highlights were the XL1, the first series-produced “one‑liter car”, and the entry of the Volkswagen Brand into motorsport.

As of July 1, 2013, he was the Board of Management Member for Technical Development of AUDI AG. In addition, he was responsible for coordinating the development of all the brands of the Volkswagen Group.

Audi announced this afternoon that the 3.0L TDI V6 did have a defeat device that allowed the engine to circumvent U.S. clean air laws.

In a statement, the German automaker said that it failed to disclose three emission control software functions, also known as auxiliary emissions control devices (AECD) to the various agencies as required by law. One of devices, a 'temperature conditioning of the exhaust‑gas cleaning system' was deemed to be illegal by the EPA as it could detect when it was being tested for emissions and turn on the pollution-control equipment to cut emission levels down.

Audi also announced the plan to fix the vehicles that will involve a software update to 85,000+ vehicles with the V6 diesel. The company will submit new U.S. government emission certification paperwork for the software. If approved by the EPA and California Air Resources Board, Audi will release software to dealers to perform the fix,

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Audi

Press Release is on Page 2

Statement on Audi’s discussions with the US environmental authorities EPA and CARB

• Auxiliary emission control devices (AECD) for US version of V6 TDI 3 liter engine to be revised, documented and submitted for approval
• Technical solution for North America versions from 2009 model year onwards to be worked out in conjunction with the authorities
  

Audi will revise, document in detail, and resubmit for US approval certain parameters of the engine-management software used in the V6 TDI 3 liter diesel engine. That is the result of the discussions held between a delegation from AUDI AG and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB). The updated software will be installed as soon as it is approved by the authorities. The three brands Audi, Porsche and Volkswagen are affected. Audi estimates that the related expense will be in the mid-double-digit millions of euros.

The latest discussions focused on a notice of violation of November 2, in which Audi was informed that AECDs (Auxiliary Emission Control Devices) were not sufficiently described and declared in the application for US type approval. That will now be done with the updated software and the documentation.

Audi has confirmed that three AECDs were not declared in the context of the US approval documentation. One of the AECDs relates to the temperature conditioning of the exhaust‑gas cleaning system. The other two AECDs are for the avoidance of deposits on the Ad-Blue metering valve and of HC poisoning of the SCR catalyst with unburnt hydrocarbons. One of them is regarded as a defeat device according to applicable US law. Specifically, this is the software for the temperature conditioning of the exhaust-gas cleaning system.

Audi has agreed with the environmental authorities on further steps of cooperation in which the concrete measures to be taken will be specified. The company has committed to continue cooperating transparently and fully. The focus will be on finding quick, uncomplicated and customer-friendly solutions. The voluntary sales stop for models with the V6 TDI diesel engine, which the three affected Group brands had provisionally decided upon, has been extended until further notice.

This engine was developed by Audi and is used in the Audi US models A6, A7, A8, Q5 and Q7 from model year 2009 onwards. Volkswagen uses the engine in the Touareg and Porsche has used it in the Cayenne since model year 2013. All affected models continue to be safe and roadworthy.

Audi has revealed some teaser images for an electric crossover concept that will debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month. Called the e-tron Quattro, the images show a vehicle having an upright grille, paired with sloping roofline and a tapering rear end. The overall shape of the concept has drag rating of 0.25 cd, the same rating as a Toyota Prius.

Power will come from three electric motors - one on the front axle and two on the rear axles. A lithium-ion battery pack sits underneath the passenger compartment. Audi isn't saying how much power the electric motors produce but did say overall range will be over 310 miles.

Now this concept is a preview to a production model that will compete with the Tesla Model X when it is launched in 2018.

Source: Audi

Press Release is on Page 2

Outlook on series production – the Audi e-tronquattro concept at the IAA 2015

August 19, 2015 | INGOLSTADT/FRANKFURT am MAIN, Germany

• The latest battery technology and top aerodynamics ensure a range of more than 500 kilometers (310 miles)
• Sporty SUV with all-electric drive in series production from 2018
• Designed from the ground up as an electric car
  

Electric driving at Audi is a pleasure, not a compromise. The brand is demonstrating this with the Audi e-tron quattro concept at the International Motor Show (IAA) 2015 in Frankfurt. The sporty SUV provides an outlook on the brand’s first large-series electric car.
The Audi e-tron quattro concept is designed from the ground up as an electric car and proves to be pioneering in its segment at the very first glance. It follows the Audi “Aerosthetics” concept, combining technical measures for reducing aerodynamic drag with creative design solutions. Movable aerodynamic elements at the front, on the sides and at the rear improve the air flow around the car. The aerodynamically optimized underbody is completely closed. With a cd value of 0.25, the car sets a new record in the SUV segment. This contributes considerably to the long range of more than 500 kilometers (310 miles).
The study is based on the second-generation modular longitudinal platform, which provides considerable scope for the drive system and package. Its length is between that of the Audi Q5 and the Q7. Its typical SUV body and flat, coupe-like cabin give the Audi e-tron quattro concept a very dynamic appearance. The spacious interior offers room for four people.
The large lithium-ion battery is positioned between the axles and below the passenger compartment. This installation position provides for a low center of gravity and a balanced axle load distribution. And that gives the car better driving dynamics and driving safety than other vehicles in the segment.
Audi uses its experience with the electrically driven Audi R8 e-tron sports car for the drive system. Three electric motors – one on the front axle and two on the rear axle – drive the Audi e-tron quattro concept. And that makes it an electrified quattro, the e-tron quattro –efficient and dynamic at the same time.

Meet the fifth-generation Audi A4 sedan and Avant. The new A4 follows the same formula as previous models: grow in size, add more features, improve performance, and cut weight. Although there is one element missing from this formula - make it look slightly different than the model it replaces.

There are small changes to the A4 such as new headlights and larger grille found on the new Q7. But you have to look very closely to notice the changes, since it almost looks like the A4 it will replace. At least Audi has cut a fair chunk of weight out of the new A4 - 264 pounds to be exact (mostly dependent on engine and trim). Also Audi has worked on improving the A4's aero. The new model has a drag coefficient of just 0.23, making it the most aerodynamic in the class.

At least the A4's interior has gotten a massive change. A lot of the elements such as the steering wheel, large 8.3-inch infotainment display, and updated MMI system with LTE connectivity, come from the new Q7 crossover.

For the European market, the A4 will launch with three gas and four diesel engines. For the U.S. market, Audi hasn't said what engines will be appearing. Our guess is that the 2.0L TFSI with 272 horsepower will be coming first. Front and Audi's quattro all-wheel drive will be available. Front-wheel drive models will drop the CVT and get a dual-clutch automatic.

We'll likely have more information for the U.S.-spec A4 in the coming months.

Source: Audi

Press Release is on Page 2

High tech all the way – the new Audi A4 and A4 Avant
The new-generation Audi A4 and A4 Avant are a fascinating synthesis of technology and esthetics. All the technology in the brand’s bestselling family has been redeveloped so that it yet again defines the benchmark in the segment. During the development work, high priority was placed on the reduction of CO2 emissions. All technologies were focused on reducing drive resistance.
A good example is aerodynamics: The A4 Sedan has the best drag coefficient in its class at 0.23. The new models also have impressively low CO2 emissions of 95 grams per kilometer (152.9 grams per mile) for the A4 Sedan 2.0 TDI ultra with 110 kW (150 hp); the A4 Avant 2.0 TDI ultra emits 99 grams CO2 per km (159.3 g/mi). The 2.0 TFSI with 140 kW (190 hp) emits 109 g/km (175.4 g/mi) in the A4 Sedan ultra and 114 g/km (183.5 g/mi) in the A 4 Avant ultra. The most powerful engines are two TDI six-cylinder units with up to 200 kW (272 hp). Driver assistance systems and infotainment are of luxury quality. A new generation of four-cylinder TFSI engines with newly developed combustion methods sets benchmarks in terms of fuel consumption, emissions and performance for four-cylinder gasoline engines. The A4 Sedan and the A4 Avant will be launched this fall.
At 4.73 meters (15.5 ft) long and with a wheelbase of 2.82 meters (9.3 ft) – the new Audi A4 and A4 Avant have a confident stance on the road. A prominent horizontal line on the front and rear emphasizes the car’s width. The flowing design with concise lines communicates the sporty elegance of the brand. The Singleframe grille is wide and low; the optionally available headlights in LED and Matrix LED technology (including dynamic turn indicators) make technology a visual trademark.
Up to 120 kilograms (264.6 lb) lighter
Compared with the previous model, the car’s dimensions have grown but its weight has been reduced significantly – by up to 120 kilograms, depending on the engine. The body of the new Audi models is one of the lightest in its class thanks to an intelligent material mix and lightweight construction.
The Audi A4 is a leader in its class also in terms of noise levels. All occupants enjoy generous space; the smooth lines emphasize the width of the interior. The front of the dashboard features a broad band of air outlets and a large decorative surface. At night, optional discreet contour lighting illuminates the doors and the central console. The quality of workmanship is uncompromisingly high. Colors and materials follow a new line concept allowing customers even more freedom during configuration.
Sensor-controlled opening of luggage compartment: the A4 Avant
The luggage compartment of the new A4 Avant offers basic storage space of 505 liters, which is the most of any premium model in this class. With the rear seats folded down and loaded to the roof, a volume of 1,510 liters is available. The electric luggage compartment cover and electric tailgate are standard equipment. An optional extra is sensor control for opening and closing the tailgate.
The two new models offer an abundance of intelligent technologies, the use of which is even more intuitive with the new Audi MMI display and control concept. Technological highlights of the new A4 include the Audi virtual cockpit, the Audi Matrix LED headlights, the Audi smartphone interface, the Bang & Olufsen Sound System with 3D sound, the Audi phone box with wireless charging, the head-up display, and new driver assistance systems and Audi connect services.
Information and fascination: the Audi virtual cockpit and the MMI
The focus here is on two innovations. The optional Audi virtual cockpit, a fully digital combination instrument, features a 12.3-inch LCD screen that displays the most important information in brilliant high-resolution graphics, with great detail and sophisticated effects.
The MMI control concept in the center console is also a newly designed feature and acts as the main control element. The top-end infotainment system, MMI Navigation plus with MMI touch and a large 8.3-inch monitor, has a touchpad in the rotary controller to zoom in and out and to enter characters. The entire MMI control logic is similar to that of a smartphone and includes an intelligent free-text search function. The new, more natural, voice-control system also understands input in normal everyday language, such as “I want to call Peter Miller.”
Concentrated computing power
MMI Navigation plus is backed by the computing power of the second-generation modular infotainment platform, which allows Audi to bring consumer electronics innovations into the vehicle quickly.
If customers order a car with MMI Navigation plus, they automatically receive the Audi connect hardware module, which connects the A4 and A4 Avant with the Internet via the high-speed LTE network. Passengers can surf the Internet and send and receive e-mail with their mobile devices via a Wi-Fi hotspot while the driver can use the tailored services of Audi connect.
The Audi smartphone interface is a new feature. It integrates iOS and Android mobile phones into an environment developed especially for this purpose – Audi MMI. The Audi phone box connects smartphones to the on-board antenna and charges them inductively according to the Qi standard. For discerning hi-fi fans, the Bang & Olufsen Sound System with innovative 3D sound is available, which introduces the additional dimension of height. The new Audi tablet can also be used as flexible rear seat entertainment.
Powerful six and four-cylinder engines
The new Audi A4 and A4 Avant will be launched in Germany with seven engines, three TFSI and four TDI. Their power output has increased significantly and ranges from 110 kW (150 hp) to 200 kW (272 hp), but fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 21 percent. The A4 2.0 TDI ultra has fuel consumption of just 3.7 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (63.6 US mpg) and CO2 emissions of just 95 grams per kilometer (152.9 grams per mile); the figures for the corresponding Avant model are 3.8 l/100 km and 99 g/km CO2 (61.9 US mpg and 159.3 g/mi). All the engines combine high efficiency with sporty power delivery and smoothness. This applies in particular to the two 3.0 TDI six-cylinder engines.
The new Audi A4 has a groundbreaking innovation for the gasoline engines: The 2.0 TFSI ultra with 140 kW (190 hp) uses an absolutely new combustion method that makes it especially efficient and allows fuel consumption of 4.8 liters per 100 km (49 US mpg) and CO2 emissions of 109 g/km (175.4 g/mi); the figures for the corresponding Avant model are 5.0 l/100 km and 114 g/km CO2 (47 US mpg and 183.5 g/mi). During the model lifecycle, a g-tron version will be launched which can use natural gas or the sustainably produced Audi e-gas as fuel.
S tronic, tiptronic and manual transmission
The powertrain and the chassis of the new Audi A4 and A4 Avant have been completely redeveloped. The six-gear manual transmission, the seven-gear S tronic (now also available for front-wheel drive) and the eight-stage tiptronic have been redesigned; the automatic transmissions now offer a fuel-saving freewheeling function. Wheel-selective torque control supplements the work of the front-wheel drive and the quattro drive. For the most powerful TDI, Audi will offer the sport differential on the rear axle as an option starting in 2016.
Driving dynamics
The handling of new A4 makes a great leap forward: on the one hand sporty and performance oriented, but with a focus on comfort at the same time. The suspension and steering filter out disturbances such as an uneven road surface, but communicate to the driver important information such as increases in lateral forces and tracking. This performance is based on the redeveloped five-link axles and the electromechanical power steering – they are exceptionally light. They lay the foundation for dynamic handling and first-class ride comfort while also reducing fuel consumption. Additional options are dynamic steering, which varies its ratio according to the car’s speed and the steering angle, and suspension with adjustable shock absorbers with which the driver can for the first time select between two settings: sports or comfort. Both of suspension settings are included in the Audi drive select driving-dynamics system, which is standard equipment for models with engines of 140 kW (190 hp) and above.
Widest range in its class: driver assistance and safety systems
The Audi A4 and A4 Avant set the benchmark in their class with numerous driver assistance systems. The predictive efficiency assistant helps drivers to save fuel, Audi active lane assist helps them to stay in lane and the Stop&Go adaptive cruise control including traffic-jam assist eases driving in slow-moving traffic. One special feature of traffic-jam assist is its control strategy. It takes into account a large number of parameters such as road markings and the traffic ahead. Some more innovations that make important contributions to safety are parking assist, rear cross-traffic assist, exit warning, collision avoidance assist, turn assist and the Audi pre-sense systems. Camera-based traffic-sign recognition is also available.
At a glance: The new Audi A4 and Audi A4 Avant
Exterior design and body
– Athletic proportions and sporty elegance; the Avant with raked D-pillars
– 4.73 meters (15.5 ft) long, 2.82-meter (9.3 ft) wheelbase, 1.84 meters (6.0 ft) wide, 1.43 meters (4.7 ft) high
– Optional LED headlights and matrix LED headlights with dynamic turn indicators
– Light body: weight reduced by up to 15 kilograms (33.1 lb) compared with the previous model
– Best drag coefficient in its class: 0.23 for the Sedan, 0.26 for the Avant; aeroacoustics ensure peace and quiet on board
Interior
– The longest interior and greatest shoulder width at the front compared with competitors
– Avant has a luggage compartment volume of 505 liters (17.8 cu ft)
– Avant has an electrical luggage compartment cover as standard
– Interior design with large decorative surfaces and continuous air vent strip; new colors and materials, spacious interior, LED interior lighting as standard equipment, first-class workmanship
– Largest range of lightweight seats amongst the premium competitors
– Automatic climate control with a new interface
– Optional LED interior lighting packages with color-adjustable ambient lighting
– New equipment concept with sport and design lines – for the first time with exterior differentiation
Controls
– Optionally available: head-up display and Audi virtual cockpit
– Completely redesigned MMI operating concept including free-text search function
– Can also be operated by multifunction steering wheel and natural-language voice control
Infotainment and Audi connect
– Optional top-end infotainment system MMI Navigation plus with MMI touch and an 8.3-inch MMI monitor including – Audi connect, LTE connectivity and Wi-Fi hotspot. Audi phone box available with inductive charging
– Many new Audi connect services including remote control via smartphone app to check and control the car
– Audi smartphone interface for connecting Apple and Android phones
– Bang & Olufsen Sound System with innovative 3D sound and Audi tablet as mobile rear-seat entertainment
Engines
– Three TFSI and four TDI engines at market launch, 110 kW (150 hp) to 200 kW (272 hp), up to 25 percent more power
– Fuel consumption reduced by up to 21 percent, Audi A4 2.0 TDI ultra with new best figures: just 3.7 liters of diesel per 100 km (63.6 US mpg) and 95 grams of CO2 per kilometer (152.9 grams per mile)
– Highly efficient 3.0 TDI in two power versions
– Economical 1.4 TFSI with 4.9 liters per 100 km (48.0 US mpg) and 114 grams CO2 per km (183.5 g/mi)
– New 2.0 TFSI ultra with 140 kW with newly developed combustion method and just 4.8 liters of gasoline per 100 km (49.0 US mpg) and 109 grams of CO2 per km (175.4 g/mi)
– A4 Avant g-tron – can operate on sustainably produced Audi e-gas
Drivetrain
– New generations of the S tronic, tiptronic and manual transmission. S tronic in A4 for front-wheel drive for the first time, both automatic transmissions with freewheeling function
– Front-wheel drive or quattro drive with wheel-selective torque control
Suspension
– Redesigned, light five-link axles at front and rear, significant increase in comfort with accentuated sportiness
– Newly developed electromechanical power steering, with dynamic steering on request
– Audi drive select dynamic driving system standard as of 140 kW (190 hp), suspension with adjustable shock absorbers available as an option
Driver assistance systems and integrated safety
– Stop&Go adaptive cruise control including traffic-jam assist for slow-moving traffic
– Predictive efficiency assistant for even lower fuel consumption
– Audi active lane assist and Audi side assist
– New: parking assist, rear cross-traffic assist, exit warning, turn assist, collision avoidance assist and camera-based traffic-sign recognition
– New safety systems: Audi pre sense city, basic and rear

Tesla isn't going to be the only automaker with an electric-only crossover. Audi announced this week they are planning to do an EV "sports activity vehicle" for early 2018. The announcement was made by Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Audi’s research and development boss during the brand's annual press conference.

Hackenberg didn't go in much detail about the model, but did talk about certain items with Autocar. He revealed the model will use the MLB platform like the new Audi Q7 and feature design cues from the recent Audi Prologue concept car.

Source: Audi, Autocar

Image Source: Autocar

Press Release is on Page 2

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Board of Management at AUDI AG for Technical Development

Speech to the Annual Press Conference 2015

Ladies and Gentlemen,

2014 was the year of technical milestones, tests and records. Think of the sportiest piloted car in the world, the Audi RS 7 concept, which lapped the Hockenheimring racetrack extremely dynamically without a driver – at up to 240 km/h.

Another mega-success was our 13th victory in the world's most important endurance race. The Audi R18 e-tron quattro with diesel-hybrid drive triumphed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

2014 – that was also 25 years of TDI technology. As strong evidence of the future viability of combustion engines, we showed the Audi RS 5 TDI concept – the fastest diesel ever timed on the Hockenheimring.

For the first time, a high-performance model was powered by a fuel-efficient diesel engine with 283 kilowatts (385 horsepower).

In terms of design, we laid down clear indications of a new direction last year. The Audi prologue is a signature car for our new design language. It combines esthetics with technology and is both progressive and highly emotive.

Those are some examples of how we are shaping the mobility of the future with superior solutions.

2015 and after are years of technologies, products and customer enthusiasm. We will significantly accelerate our model initiative in 2015. Here are some highlights:

The new Audi Q7* that we presented in Detroit in January is a benchmark for large premium SUVs – in terms of drivetrain, efficiency, weight, connectivity and space. Up to 325 kg lighter than its predecessor, CO2 champion in its class with just 149 g/km – that's efficiency in the top segment. At present, there is no other car in the world that offers more connectivity, infotainment and driver assistance. And it is the first automobile based on the second generation of our modular longitudinal platform (MLB 2).

This applies to our second world premiere, too: The Audi Q7 e-tron quattro, that we presented in Geneva last week. It is the world's first plug-in hybrid with a diesel engine and quattro drive. It drives up to 56 kilometers purely on electric power and has best-in-class fuel consumption in the test cycle of just 1.7 liters per 100 km and it emits less than 50 grams of CO2 per km. It is therefore a clear demonstration of how we are consistently electrifying the drivetrains in our entire portfolio – and strengthening our overall efficiency.

Also in Geneva, we presented three models of our new Audi R8 family – the Audi R8 V10*, the Audi R8 LMS for motorsport and the Audi R8 e-tron. That's "Vorsprung durch Technik" with full emphasis on sporty driving.

The Audi R8, our sporty RS models, the sports-car icon Audi TT* and our traditionally excellent performance in motorsport all send the same message: Audi is about automotive sportiness, and quattro plays a substantial role. 35 years of quattro – that means: At present, we have more than 180 model versions with permanent all-wheel drive in all segments, from the Audi A1* small compact car to the Audi A8* large sedan. And more than six million quattro models sold since the first presentation in 1980.

Audi is the leading premium all-wheel-drive brand and has the widest range of all-wheel-drive vehicles of all its direct competitors. Audi quattro continues to be our core technology.

Our promise for the future: We will offer the unique sporty quattro driving experience also in the era of highly efficient and electric drive systems.

Our automobiles will always carry the genuine Audi genes – sportiness, progressiveness and exclusiveness- and a lot of driving pleasure. And so, we enhance our development activities in innovative areas such as

1. Engines, efficiency and sustainability

2. Connectivity and piloted driving3. Design and lighting

Since February 2014, Marc Lichte has been the Head of Audi design. With his team, he is working on a new design language that emphasizes our technology even more. We most recently gave a glimpse of this in Geneva: As you know, stylish station wagons have been called "Avant" at Audi for many years.

The Audi prologue Avant continues this tradition with its dynamically stretched form. It is muscular and athletic and at the same time flowing and elegant. Already with the new Audi A4 and the Audi Q1, we will lay down new markers for emotive and precise design. The first products in Marc Lichte's design language will then be the new Audi A8, Audi A7 and Audi A6 models.

From Marc Lichte now to lighting technology. In addition to its purely functional properties, light is a key feature of automobile esthetics. Our lighting innovations are leading. Exterior lighting is a car's signature.

Interior lighting enhances the premium ambience. For the future of automobile lights we can say:

They will get more dynamic and interactive, they will become a carrier of information.

Information, communication and connectivity are dominant features of our lives already today.

Our future is connected mobility. Connectivity in the car ensures that drivers and passengers experience more information, more safety and more comfort. Some examples:

The Audi virtual cockpit, our fully digital combination instrument, premiered in 2014 in the new Audi TT.

It's now going into the new Audi Q7 and Audi R8. Smartphones are now integrated through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. They are charged inductively – very conveniently and wirelessly in the Audi phone box.

Also to be found in the new Audi Q7: the Audi tablet for the passengers' infotainment. It is a proprietary development by Audi and is the first tablet with full automotive compatibility. That means it fulfills all temperature and crash requirements – these are features that you don't find with ordinary tablets.

In the Audi prologue, we are presenting a revolutionary operating concept: The entire front of the dashboard is a large touch display. Architecture, display and operating concept form a harmonic whole.

At CES 2015, we demonstrated the Audi mobile key. You can lock and unlock the car with your smartphone or smartwatch and you can let it drive into or out of the garage. Near-field communication and the latest encryption technology make sure this convenience function will meet all security standards.

Audi is the pioneer of piloted driving. Since 2010, we have set one technical milestone after the other.

The latest highlight: In January, we drove in piloted mode with journalists on public roads through two states of the US and generated great interest.

Our technology is ready for series production. The new Audi A8, which we plan to launch in 2017, will be the first model to make the transition from assisted to piloted driving. It has a traffic-jam pilot on board and offers piloted parking. The new Audi A8 therefore represents a paradigm shift.

The prerequisites for piloted driving are radar, laser and ultrasound sensors as well as cameras in and at the outside of the car. This is how we generate a precise picture of the traffic situation. We therefore create a stable, redundant system that masters all situations in road traffic.

With the Audi prologue piloted driving, we are today letting you have a look at artificial intelligence in the future car. The Audi prologue continues to learn with every kilometer it drives and saves its knowledge in a data cloud. In the future, our cars will continually compare their data with that in the cloud.

We are already testing piloted driving in Germany, the United States and Asia. In this way, we are learning a lot about the behavior of our cars, our drivers and other road users in real road traffic.

Our objective is for Audi drivers and other road users to experience the increase in safety and comfort that connected mobility offers.

Connected cars are not only safer, but also more efficient, as they adjust their driving style to the current traffic conditions. In this way, they support our vision of CO2-neutral mobility. We achieve the biggest reduction in CO2 emissions by fully utilizing the potential of our combustion engines.

Here are two latest examples of how our engines will become more efficient:

Number 1: We will equip TDI engines as standard with an electrically driven compressor (EAV). The Audi RS 5 TDI concept car was the first high-performance car in which we showed this development in 2014.

With the electrically driven compressor, we were able to reduce CO2 emissions by up to seven grams of CO2 per kilometer while significantly increasing performance.

Example number 2: The predictive efficiency assistant (PEA) is in use in the new Audi Q7 for the first time. It combines data from the navigation system and sensors to let the car drive in an anticipatory manner.

In test drives, this reduced fuel consumption by about ten percent.

We are working to meet worldwide market-specific CO2 limits also by optimizing the total vehicle, for example with system-integrative lightweight construction as in the new Audi Q7.

Plug-in hybrids, natural gas and battery-electric drive systems have a key role to play in achieving CO2 targets. The Audi A3 e-tron* as a plug-in hybrid and the Audi A3 g-tron* powered by natural gas were successfully launched on the market in 2014. Both of them already have successors: the electrified Audi Q7 and the future Audi A4 g-tron based on the second generation of the modular longitudinal platform (MLB 2). We plan to have a plug-in hybrid in every model series in the coming years.

In 2014, we announced that we will produce our sportiest ambassador for electric mobility, the Audi R8 e-tron, to customer order in a tailor-made manufacturing process. The time has come.

Its range is a good 450 kilometers in the fuel-consumption cycle. With its efficient drivetrain, the Audi R8 e-tron offers competitive and customer-focused long-range electric mobility. We have redesigned the battery's technology from its ground and achieved a new level of performance and energy density.

Its fluid-cooled lithium-ion battery has a capacity of more than 90 kWh and is integrated into the Audi Space Frame structure of the car. We manufacture this battery at the Audi center of excellence for battery technology in the Ingolstadt area. This is a great proof for the engineering power of Audi. In addition, the Audi R8 e-tron continues to be our technology carrier for future electric cars.

In early 2018, we will launch a battery-powered sports activity vehicle in the large premium segment with a range of more than 500 kilometers. It will have a new, very attractive design, which we are developing especially for the e-tron range and for battery-electric vehicles. This sports activity vehicle will be built on the second generation of the modular longitudinal platform. From the very beginning, this tool for optimal drivetrain diversity implementation has been designed for a broad variety of concepts.

As an alternative to battery-electric drivetrains and with regard to the future of the automobile, we presented our concept for fuel-cell technology in November 2014. On board of a fuel-cell powered car, electric energy is generated by a synthesis of hydrogen and oxygen. In our Audi A7 h-tron quattro technology carrier, we demonstrated the viability of this concept. And, this technology is ready for series development. Only four weeks ago, we acquired a number of strategically important patents from Ballard Power Systems, Inc., a global leader in fuel cell technology. This will further strengthen both our broad patent portfolio and our competitive advantage in terms of fuel cell technology development.

I would like to close with some personal remarks. When I came back to Audi in July 2013, I committed myself to change. Jointly with the Technical Development team, I focused on pushing "Vorsprung durch Technik" with innovations in a more consistent manner. Also, I put a lot of emphasis on a new impetus for the design of our products. Today, we may say: We are doing the right things AND we are doing them with enthusiasm.

We fuse technology and design in a fundamentally new design language. We are leading with pioneering technologies for high-tech combustion engines and alternative drive systems, lightweight construction, lighting, driver assistance, connectivity and data management, as well as for piloted driving.

In this way, we are shaping the future of the automobile with convincing products, and we are offering our customers a sporty, connected, comfortable and efficient premium driving experience.

We invest extensively in our global development network, strengthening our team with additional experts, and systematically applying the module strategy. Furthermore, development synergies across the brands in the Group offer great benefits.

All of that contributes to an overall positive balance sheet of the Technical Development division.

"Vorsprung durch Technik" – that applies more than ever. You may expect a lot from us – now and in the future.

Thank you for your kind attention.

The Audi A3 family is growing. By the end of the this summer, the standard A3 sedan will be joined by the A3 TDI, Cabriolet, and the S3 sedan. Audi has gone ahead and announced pricing for these three new variants.

The A3 TDI will be the closest to the existing A3 sedan in price. With a pricetag of $33,495 (includes destination), the TDI sits between the base 1.8 FWD A3 ($$30,795) and the 2.0T A3 ($33,795). The TDI will use a new 2.0L turbodiesel four-cylinder with 150 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. The TDI model will only come in front-wheel drive.

Next is the A3 Cabriolet which begins at $36,495 for the 1.8 with front-wheel drive or $39,495 for the 2.0T with quattro. The Cabriolet comes with a soft top that the company claims that can be raised or lowered in 18 seconds, and be done up to 31 MPH.

Wrapping up the trio is the S3 sedan which rings in at $41,995. The S3 uses a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder with 292 horsepower and quattro all-wheel drive. Other changes for the S3 include a sports suspension, 18- or 19-inch wheels, paddle shifters, and more.

Source: Audi

Press Release is on Page 2

Audi announces pricing for all-new 2015 S3 Sedan, A3 Cabriolet and A3 TDI Sedan

- Additions to A3 line-up expand the compact luxury segment offering a variety of body styles and powertrains to satisfy customer’s preference- All-new 2015 S3 Sedan, A3 Cabriolet and A3 TDI Sedan to begin arriving at dealerships late summer

- The A3 family sets new standards in the entry premium market, with impressive standard features and an available 4G LTE data connection

HERNDON, Va., June 19, 2013 – Audi today introduced pricing for the all-new 2015 S3 performance Sedan, A3 Cabriolet and A3 TDI clean diesel Sedan. These are the latest models to join the newly launched Audi A3 family, which went on sale in April and further expands the Audi S, Cabriolet, and TDI model lineups. The three new A3 variants all go on sale in the U.S. late summer of this year.

Suggested retail pricing for the all-new A3 TDI Sedan, S3 Sedan and A3 Cabriolet:

A3 Sedan 2.0 TDI FWD S tronic: $32,600S3 Sedan 2.0T q S tronic: $41,100

A3 Cabriolet 1.8T FWD S tronic: $35,600A3 Cabriolet 2.0T q S tronic: $38,600

“Since its launch in April, the all new A3 Sedan has proven itself as a market share leader in the entry premium segment and is already one of the most popular models in the Audi lineup. In its infancy the A3 has established itself as a core contributor to the Audi U.S. success story,” said Scott Keogh, President, Audi of America. “This growth will continue as we launch a variety of body styles and unique engines to suit a wide range of customer lifestyles and tastes.”

The all-new 2015 Audi A3 model line-up offers new innovative technologies and the detailed craftsmanship found in larger flagship Audi sedans. Premium standard features such as leather seating surfaces, power panoramic roof, Bluetooth® technology with audio streaming, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio, HD radio, power driver’s seat, split folding rear seatback and Audi pre sense® basic. The A3 line-up will also come equipped standard with the Audi signature Singleframe® grille, bi-xenon headlights and LED taillights.

All A3 models offer available features including MMI® technology, 4G LTE connectivity, full LED headlights and a Bang & Olufsen® audio system. The new A3 family will feature the most advanced version of Audi connect®, including picture navigation, read-aloud news headlines, Facebook® and Twitter® alerts, access to more than 7,000 Web radio stations, personalized RSS news feeds and more. Also available in the A3 family is Audi drive select, this system allows the driver to adjust throttle response, shift points, and the electromechanical steering effort. Similar to other Audi models, Audi drive select has four settings that include Auto, Dynamic, Comfort, and Individual.

S3 Sedan

Now available for the first time in the U.S. the S3 Sedan expands upon the already sporty character of the A3 sedan, adding specific details that underscore the high-performance for which the Audi S lineup is known for. A powerful, high-output 2.0L TFSI® engine with quattro® all-wheel drive produces an impressive 292 horsepower. The S3 boasts a Singleframe® grille with aluminum-look, double horizontal bars and a chrome frame outline. Aluminum-look double ribs and honeycomb inserts fill the air inlets in the bumper and optional LED headlights add to an unmistakable look. The S3 will also come with a S3 specific sport suspension and unique S3 specific 18-inch wheels and optional S3 specific 19-inch wheels.

Inside, the S3 adds further character by offering instrument dials that are in an S specific dark gray metallic finish with the numbers and needles in white. The tachometer features a three-dimensional S3 logo and boost pressure indicator. A leather-covered, multifunction sport steering wheel with the rim flattened at the bottom and S3 badging and standard shift paddles with aluminum details are also standard on the S3.

A3 CabrioletNow offered for the first time in the U.S., the all-new A3 Cabriolet is available with either a 1.8T FWD or 2.0T quattro powertrain. The Cabriolet comes with a soft cloth top stretched over a lightweight kinematic mechanism made out of magnesium-steel, perfectly complementing the car’s sporty design. The top can be opened or closed electro-hydraulically in less than 18 seconds, even while driving up to 31 mph, all at the press of a button.

The A3 Cabriolet also offers an active rollover protection system that helps protect the occupants in case of a rollover accident, as well as a fully automatic acoustic top with a glass rear window and thick inner foam layer.

A3 TDI SedanThe Audi A3 TDI® Sedan offers consumers the fuel efficiency of the iconic TDI clean diesel powertrain. A powerful yet efficient 2.0 TDI FWD engine produces 150 horsepower and 236 lb-ft torque. Audi has been at the forefront of clean diesel since the introduction of TDI technology in the U.S. in 2009.

Since then, more than 40,491 Audi TDI vehicles have been sold in the U.S., delivering an average of 30% better fuel economy and range than their gasoline counterparts (based on EPA fuel economy estimates).

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

December 4, 2013

The smallest crossover that Audi currently sells is the Q3, but the automaker thinks that is too big. So the German automaker has released a teaser shot of the upcoming Q1 Crossover.

"The Audi Q1 is part of our broad-based SUV strategy. It is designed on the basis of the modular transverse engine concept and will round off our Q series at the bottom end," said Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of Audi.

The sketch released by Audi shows the Q1 having similar looks to the Crosslane concept shown at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. Other bits of information given by Audi is that the Q1 will be part of 11 new models which the automaker plans to launch by the end of the decade, will begin producing sometime in 2016, and that it will be based on a modular transverse-engine platform.

Source: Audi

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

Ingolstadt, 2013-12-02

Audi decides on development of Q1 as a new member of the Q family

- Production of the new compact SUV as of 2016 at the plant in Ingolstadt

- Audi CEO Rupert Stadler: "The Q1 is a key component of our growth strategy."

- Chairman of the General Works Council, Peter Mosch, welcomes the decision

There is to be an addition to Audi's Q model family. The Board of Management and the Works Council of AUDI AG today announced that a new model will roll off the assembly lines in Ingolstadt as of 2016: the Q1.

"The Audi Q1 is part of our broad-based SUV strategy. It is designed on the basis of the modular transverse engine concept and will round off our Q series at the bottom end," stated Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG. As an attractive entry into the Q family, the new model will make a strong contribution to the company's ongoing growth and will strengthen its international competitiveness. Audi is continuing its model offensive with the Q1; by 2020, the automaker will expand its product range from the current 49 to more than 60 models. By then, Audi will reach total unit sales of more than two million automobiles each year.

The decision to produce the new model will help to secure utilization of capacity at the main plant in Ingolstadt over the long term. At this site, Audi produces models in the A and B segments, namely the A3 and A3 Sportback and the A4/A5 family. Peter Mosch, Chairman of the General Works Council, welcomes the decision: "This is a clear commitment to Ingolstadt as a production site. We will continue to make all efforts to develop the plant even further as the leading technological site of the Audi Group." The decision on the new model is regarded as proof that employee codetermination secures jobs and that the internationalization of the Audi group is not taking place at the expense of the sites in Germany.

The Q family currently comprises the Audi Q3, RS Q3, Q5, SQ5 and Q7. The Q5 is the global market leader in its direct competitive environment. This year, Audi had already delivered 194,430 units of the Q5 to customers by the end of October, which is 17 percent more than in the prior-year period. Approximately 230,000 units of this model are planned to be built in 2013, which is more than half of the total Q volume. The proportion of the company's total production volume accounted for by SUVs will be about 28 percent this year, and is planned to rise to more than 35 percent by 2020. Overall, Audi has produced and delivered to customers more than 1.5 million automobiles of the Q family since the market launch of the first SUV in 2006.

William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

October 25, 2013

It appears we have the start of entry-level luxury car wars as Audi has announced pricing for the upcoming 2015 A3 sedan. The compact sedan will cost $30,875* (includes a $895 destination charge) when it arrives at dealers next spring.

The A3 sedan will come a 1.8L TFSI four-cylinder with 170 horsepower and a six-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifters. Front-wheel drive will be standard, while quattro all-wheel drive is an option.

Standard equipment for the A3 sedan includes panoramic glass sunroof, leather seating surfaces, Bluetooth, and bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights. The option list includes such items as Audi drive select, LED daytime running lights and taillights, MMI multimedia system, 4G LTE connectivity, and Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Coming down the road for the A3 later this year is a diesel engine and cabriolet. In 2015, the hotted up S3 sedan with a 2.0L TFSI engine will arrive.

Source: Audi

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

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AUDI ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR ITS ALL-NEW 2015 A3 SEDAN

- The A3 sedan brings a new level of standard features, craftsmanship and attention to detail to the fast growing entry premium market

- An all-new A3 family from Audi will be rolled out over the next 18 months

Audi today announced base pricing for its all-new 2015 A3 sedan. This compact powerhouse represents the entry level to the Audi brand of luxury vehicles with no compromises – it will offer a combination of standard features including a panoramic glass sunroof, leather seating surfaces, and bi-xenon headlights, all at a base MSRP starting at $29,900 .

"The Audi A3 sedan raises the bar in this premium compact segment" said Scott Keogh, President, Audi of America. "It will add to our momentum in the U.S. marketplace by bringing a new level of technology, craftsmanship and performance to the market."

The A3 sedan plays a pivotal role in the soon to be expanding Audi A3 family. It will be joined later in 2014 by the recently announced Audi A3 Cabriolet, A3 TDI clean diesel, the high-performance S3 sedan and in early 2015, the A3 Sportback e-tron® gasoline electric hybrid (PHEV). Even the base model of the all-new premium Audi A3 comes equipped with standard features that include Audi signature LED DRLs and taillights, Bluetooth® technology, Audi pre sense® basic and a panoramic glass sunroof.

The A3 also marks the first time that a vehicle in this segment will offer MMI® technology, Audi drive select, 4G LTE connectivity and Bang & Olufsen® audio. Delivering the same prestige and high-quality materials found in the brand's flagship A8 model. The A3 will also feature standard leather seating surfaces and exceptional ergonomics.

The A3 sedan will offer versatile powertrains for a wide variety of entry-luxury customer tastes, including a 1.8 TFSI®, 2.0 TFSI®, 2.0 TDI® clean diesel, and a high-output 2.0 TFSI® offered in the S3. For superior traction and handling the A3 will also offer the legendary Audi quattro® all-wheel drive which distributes power to the wheels that need it most.

All engines are mated to the standard 6-speed S tronic® transmission, which provides the driver immense shifting flexibility and driving pleasure with smooth, dynamic acceleration and virtually no interruption to the power flow.

The A3 will feature an all-new design and has been specifically tailored to meet the sedan preferences of the American market. The signature Singleframe® grille and available full-LED headlights, another first for the A-segment, are some of the notable design changes included in the all-new Audi A3 sedan.

By William Maley

Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com

February 1, 2013

At the Los Angeles Auto Show last November, Audi announced they would be offering four models with the option of a diesel engine. The first of those four, the 2014 Audi A8L TDI will be the first to arrive in the U.S. in the spring and have a base price of $83,395 (includes $895 for destination).

The A8L TDI comes with a 3.0L TDI V6, producing 240 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. Audi's quattro all-wheel drive is standard. Even with the extra weight of TDI being in the long-wheel base model only, Audi says the A8L TDI can reach 60 in 6.4 seconds and gets 24 city/36 highway/28 combined MPG.

Source: Audi

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.comor you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2

Audi announces pricing and fuel economy for 2014 Audi A8 L TDI® clean diesel

Pricing starts at $82,500 for the first ever 2014 Audi A8 L TDI® clean diesel with an EPA estimated fuel efficiency of 24 city/ 36 highway/ 28 combined MPG

The Audi A8 has set new standards for the luxury sedan in terms of interior and exterior design, technology, performance and efficiency. Now equipped with the new 3.0 liter TDI clean diesel engine, the 2014 Audi A8 L TDI represents a dramatic expansion of the flagship sedan and the first of four new TDI models to be introduced this year.

Starting at $82,500, the A8 L TDI clean diesel, with quattro® all-wheel drive, makes a powerful statement in achieving the best fuel economy in its segment with an EPA estimated 24/ 36/ 28 mpg (city/ highway/ combined), while at the same time generating an impressive 240 horsepower, 406 lb.-ft. of torque that seamlessly launches 0-60 MPH in 6.4 seconds.

For the 2014 Audi A8 L TDI, the package options were optimized to better reflect customer demand. The available Premium Package now consists of Audi side assist and pre sense rear, 22-way multi-contour comfort seats, font seat ventilation with massage and full LED headlights.

The A8 L TDI joins an expanding model line-up including the A8 3.0T, A8 4.0T, S8 4.0T and A8 W12. The A8 L TDI will be available in the long-wheelbase version only.

The 2014 Audi A8 L TDI will go on sale in early Spring 2013. Additional 2014 model year information and pricing for other models will be announced at later in the year.

William Maley

Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com

April 26, 2012

Audi has given their midsize crossover, the Q5, a mid-cycle refresh. Not that you actually can tell on the outside or the inside. Both got subtle styling changes and updates. The big news on the Q5 refresh is what lies under the hood.

The only engine sticking around is the base 2.0T with 225 HP and 258 lb-ft of torque. Everything else is all new. Replacing the 3.2L V6 is Audi's supercharged 3.0T (don't ask why they didn't use an S instead of a T) producing 272 HP and 295 lb-ft of torque.

Also, coming is a 3.0L diesel churning out 245 hp and a eye-watering 428 lb-ft of torque and a Hybrid model that pairs the 2.0L Turbo and a 54 HP electric motor which together produce 245 HP and 354 lb-ft of torque.

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High-performance SUV with many talents – the updated Audi Q5

- Completely updated Q5 model series

- New engine-transmission pairings are up to 15 percent more efficient

- Audi connect services set new benchmark for infotainment

INGOLSTADT, Germany, Apr 24, 2012 - Sporty, spacious, comfortable and multifunctional – the Audi Q5 has a versatile and successful character. Now the mid-class SUV is even more attractive, efficient and sporty – adding many new solutions in design, infotainment, chassis and engines. The Q5 hybrid quattro, the brand’s first production hybrid model, unites the power of a V6 with the fuel economy of a four cylinder.

Engines

Audi is launching its updated Q5 with five engine options: three TDI and two TFSI engines. All of these engines combine direct fuel injection with charging, and a start-stop system is standard in all versions. Although most of the engines have enhanced performance, their fuel consumption values were reduced by up to 15 percent.

The most efficient Q5 series engine is the 2.0 TDI; Audi offers it in two versions. In the version with 105 kW (143 hp) and 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft) of torque, the four-cylinder engine in combination with manual transmission and front-wheel drive has an average fuel consumption of 5.3 liters of diesel per 100 km (44.38 US mpg) – and a CO2 equivalent of 139 grams per km (223.70 g/mile). The 75 liter (19.81 US gallon) fuel tank enables driving ranges of up to 1,400 km (870 miles).

The Audi Q5 with 130 kW (177 hp) and 380 Nm (280.27 lb-ft) of torque (with S tronic and quattro drive) has a fuel consumption value of 6.0 liters per 100 km (39.20 US mpg). The 3.0 TDI delivers 180 kW (245 hp) and 580 Nm (427.79 lb-ft) of torque. The V6 diesel – which appears in a new, advanced design and is always paired with a seven-speed S tronic and quattro drive system – accelerates the Q5 from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 6.5 seconds and has a top speed of 225 km/h (139.81 mph). Its combined fuel consumption is just 6.4 liters of fuel per 100 km (36.75 US mpg).

The gasoline engines of the updated Audi Q5 also feature state-of-the-art technology. A highlight of the TFSI engine line-up is the new two-liter, four-cylinder engine that has numerous innovations such as in the control of valves and their stroke, innovative thermal management, the fuel injection system, turbocharger and integration of the exhaust manifold in the cylinder head.

The new 2.0 TFSI outputs 165 kW (225 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft). Its fuel consumption (with a manual transmission) is 7.6 liters per 100 km (30.95 US mpg). Producing even more power is the new 3.0 TFSI – the three-liter V6 with supercharging, which replaces the 3.2-liter engine. This engine outputs 200 kW (272 hp) of power and 400 Nm (295.02 lb-ft) of torque. Key performance data: zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.9 seconds, top speed 234 km/h (145.40 mph), combined fuel consumption of 8.5 liters per 100 km (27.67 US mpg).

Transmissions

Each of the engines in the updated Q5 has an optimal transmission system. The four-cylinder engine operates with a manual six-speed transmission as standard equipment. The highly convenient eight-speed tiptronic is available as an option for the 2.0 TFSI with 165 kW (225 hp); it is standard in the 3.0 TFSI. The sporty seven-speed S tronic, on the other hand, is standard in the 3.0 TDI and available as an option in the 2.0 TDI with 130 kW (177 hp).

The transmissions are integrated in the innovative thermal management system of the four-cylinder versions, a system that significantly shortens the warm-up phase after a cold start. All transmissions have wide gear spreads – the long gear ratios in the upper gears reduce fuel consumption, while the short gear ratios of the lower gears improve dynamic performance in highway driving.

The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system is standard with all but one engine – only the 2.0 TDI with 105 kW (143 hp) has front-wheel drive. Normally, the center differential distributes engine power to the rear and front axle at a ratio of 60:40, but it can redistribute the power at lightning speed when necessary. The torque vectoring system finishes its job with finely tuned brake interventions.

Chassis

The chassis of the Audi Q5 – with its five-link front suspension and trapezoidal-link rear suspension – adds new refinement and comfort in the characteristics of the springs, shock absorbers and stabilizers. The new electro­mechanical power steering system gives the driver a better feel for the road with direct gearing. The system – which adjusts its power assist to vehicle speed – does not consume any energy in straight-line driving, reducing fuel consumption by about 0.2 liters per 100 km.

The Q5 has 17-inch aluminum wheels and size 235/65 tires (18-inch wheels from 165 kW [225 hp]). Audi and quattro GmbH can deliver wheels with up to 20-inch diagonals and tires up to 255/45. Customers who are particularly focused on sports performance can order the S line sport suspension. The electromechanical parking brake may be supplemented with the optional Audi hold assist, and the standard downhill assist function controls vehicle speed on steep descents. Electronic stabilization control (ESC) adapts its interventions to characteristics of the road surface.

Another high-end feature in the Audi Q5 is the Audi drive select system. It lets the driver vary the characteristic of the accelerator pedal, the shift points of the automatic transmission, amount of power steering assist and operation of the automatic air conditioning system via four modes, including an efficiency mode. When an Audi navigation system is ordered, a fifth mode is added that is largely user-programmable.

In addition, three optional components may be integrated in Audi drive select. They are adaptive cruise control, chassis with damping control and dynamic steering, in which the steering gear ratio is modified as a function of vehicle speed via a harmonic drive system. At performance limits in driving through curves, it compensates for understeer and oversteer by intervening with slight steering pulses.

The Audi Q5 also performs very well on rugged terrain. Its maximum climbing angle is 31 degrees. The vehicle’s approach and departure angles are each 25 degrees, while its ramp angle is 17 degrees. The vehicle’s ground clearance measures 20 centimeters (7.87 inches).

Exterior styling

The Audi Q5 is progressive and sporty, spacious and functional. Its styling, with a coupe-like roof line and wrap-around tailgate, visualizes all of these properties – and it is now acquiring distinctive new traits. The interior design of the headlights has been modified; the LED daytime running lights of the optional xenon plus units are shaped as curved bands that surround the headlights. Audi also offers the optional adaptive light with dynamic cornering light and static turning light.

The horizontal lines of the high-performance SUV’s front end are emphasized more strongly. The high-gloss black Singleframe grille has beveled upper edges; its vertical chrome struts and the Audi rings have a sculpted look. The modified bumpers integrate air inlets with high-gloss black inserts and fog lights with chrome rings.

When xenon plus headlights are ordered, the tail lights are also designed with a layout of visually uniform LED light bands. The diffuser insert and the tailpipes that taper at the bottom have been redesigned – in two versions, depending on the engine. Roof rails and crossbars are standard equipment.

There is a range of 15 colors, including four new colors. As options, Audi can deliver an S line exterior package or an offroad styling package; both give the Q5 a unique look with their design details and the colors of add-on parts.

The updated SUV is 4.63 meters (15.19 feet) long, 1.90 meters (6.23 feet) wide and 1.65 meters (5.41 feet) tall. Its drag coefficient is 0.33 and its frontal area is 2.65 m2 (28.52 square feet); the curb weight of the base version is 1,755 kg (3,869.11 lb).

The engine hood and trunk lid consist of aluminum, while a large share of the car’s structural elements integrate ultra-high-strength steels; they reduce weight and improve crash safety. The high-performance SUV’s interior has a solid and highly comfortable look. Audi received the “Euro Car Body Award” for the Q5 body – the most prestigious award in car design.

Interior

The interior of the Audi Q5 has made additional strides in refined styling. Many of the user controls have narrow chrome trim; the steering column control stalks, ignition key and instruments were given subtle modifications. The narrow panels of the center console are high-gloss black. All steering wheel versions, including versions with shift paddles, reflect the new Q-specific styling.

The ergonomics have also been fine-tuned. The central media component, MMI navigation plus, now has four buttons, and its volume dial has an additional skip function. Other refinements have been made to the controls for the seat heating, the new highly efficient air conditioning system, the Audi drive select system and the multifunction steering wheel.

Extras worthy of special mention are the convenience key, three-zone automatic air conditioning system and climate-controlled comfort seats with a ventilation function. The panoramic glass roof also creates a pleasant atmosphere in the interior.

An uncompromisingly high quality of workmanship is a matter of pride at Audi. Selections of materials, colors and upholstery fabrics have been updated – three new interior colors, three fabric and three leather qualities and a total of 35 different combinations offer plenty of latitude when it comes to customization.

Large fabric-upholstered surfaces are standard on the door trim panels; inlay options include three wood veneers and one aluminum version.

The S line sport package offers a black interior; sport seats and elegant trim components make it even more elegant. The package is completed by 19-inch wheels with 235/55 tires, a sport suspension and the exclusive exterior color Daytona Grey, pearl effect. The design packages, Audi exclusive program and Audi exclusive line offer other exclusive choices.

The Audi Q5 is a car with outstanding practical talents when it comes to recreational and family activities. It offers ample interior space with a long wheelbase of 2.81 meters (9.22 feet). The seatback angles can be adjusted on the rear seats. When these seats are folded – which is very easy using the remote seatback unlatching feature – the cargo capacity increases from 540 to 1,560 liters (19.07 to 55.09 cubic feet).

Audi offers an optional rail system for the cargo space, an electric drive for the tailgate, folding front passenger seatback and rear seating system with ten centimeters (3.94 inches) of longitudinal adjustment together with cargo pass-through feature. The Audi Q5 is also a powerful towing vehicle with up to 2.4 metric tons of trailer load, depending on the engine and hill incline.

Driver assistance systems

In the updated Q5, the driving is relaxed and carefree – in part due to the highly developed assistance systems from Audi. The driver information system with rest recommendation is a standard feature. If the system detects that the driver’s attentiveness is waning – based on steering wheel movements and other parameters – it recommends that the driver take a break from driving.

Assuming a central role among the optional assistance systems is adaptive cruise control. The radar-based cruise control system controls the distance to the car ahead in traffic; at speeds under 30 km/h (18.64 mph) it can initiate hard braking if it detects an impending collision. Audi active lane assist can support the driver with small steering interventions to stay on track in a lane. Audi side assist monitors the space behind the Q5 to support the driver in changing lanes.

Infotainment systems and Audi connect

Audi offers a broad selection of infotainment systems in the updated Q5. Positioned at the top: the Bang & Olufsen sound system and MMI navigation plus with a large hard drive, seven-inch color monitor, 3D graphics and DVD player. Many system details have been improved, e.g. voice control and the optional digital radio reception. The system is a standard feature in the Q5 hybrid quattro, together with the Audi sound system and color driver information system.

The Bluetooth car phone online perfectly complements MMI navigation plus. Its integrated WLAN hotspot lets passengers surf the Internet and email with their mobile devices. For the driver, it brings customized Audi connect online services into the car, such as Google Point of Interest search by voice control, navigation with Google Earth images and Google Street View. Audi traffic information online, a service of Audi connect, offers the driver up-to-the-minute information about traffic on the selected route.

Another new feature is the smartphone app Audi music stream. Q5 drivers can use it to receive more than 5,000 Internet radio stations, and they can save their favorites to their cell phones. The selected program accesses MMI navigation plus via WLAN, and its audio signal is output over the audio system loudspeakers. Web radio is also controlled from the vehicle’s user terminal.

Audi Q5 hybrid quattro

The Q5 hybrid quattro, the first hybrid model from Audi, is designed as a highly efficient parallel hybrid. Propulsive power is supplied by a 2.0 TFSI with 155 kW (211 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque as well as an electric motor with a peak output of 40 kW (54 hp) and peak torque of 210 Nm (154.89 lb-ft). Together, the two power sources can briefly output a system power of 180 kW (245 hp) and a system torque of 480 Nm (354.03 lb-ft).

The Audi Q5 hybrid quattro accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.1 seconds and can reach a top speed of 225 km/h (139.81 mph). In pure electric mode, it can cover up to three kilometers (1.86 miles) at a constant speed of 60 km/h (37.28 mph). In this mode, its top speed is 100 km/h (62.14 mph), while its combined fuel consumption is just 6.9 liters per 100 km (34.09 US mpg).

A highly modified eight-speed tiptronic transmission transfers engine power to the drivetrain without requiring a torque converter; its mounting space is taken by the electric motor, which is combined with a multi-plate clutch. The clutch engages and disengages the electric motor and the TFSI. A compact and lightweight lithium-ion battery system with 1.3 kWh energy capacity stores electrical energy. A complex air cooling system maintains battery temperatures within a suitable window.

The driver switches between the three driving modes with a button and with the tiptronic gear selection lever. The EV characteristic map prioritizes the electric drive, while the D mode efficiently controls both the internal combustion engine and electric motor. The S mode and the manual shift gate of the tiptronic are configured for a sporty style of driving.

Within these constraints, the hybrid control module chooses the best operating mode at any given time. The Audi Q5 hybrid quattro can be driven with just the TFSI, just the electric drive or in hybrid mode. It can also recover energy during deceleration, or it can boost output for powerful acceleration when both drives work together.

Outside, the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro can be recognized by its fully painted bumpers and by the hybrid-specific ten-arm turbine design of its wheels. 19-inch wheels are standard; 20-inch wheels are optional. Inside, special instruments display the hybrid’s operating state – such as the powermeter, which replaces the tachometer.

Prices

Despite extensive vehicle upgrading and the addition of new features, the price of the Audi Q5 has barely risen for customers. For example, the 2.0 TDI with 130 kW (177 hp) costs just 150 euros more than the previous model with 125 kW (170 hp); its base price is 39,900 euros. The high-performance SUV will arrive at dealers later this summer.

William Maley

Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com

April 24, 2012

Audi is extending their e-tron technology to a luxury sedan. At the Beijing Motor Show, Audi introduced the A6 L e-tron concept.

Based on the A6 platform, the A6 L e-tron is on a longer wheelbase. Power comes from a 2.0L TFSI engine making 211 HP and is combined with a 95 HP electric motor that is powered by a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery. The A6 L e-tron can operate in fully-electric, hybrid or gasoline mode as needed.

Audi says the A6 L e-tron concept is technically an concept at the moment, but did admit that it could indicate what an A6 e-tron could look like.

Press Release is on Page 2

Audi A6 L e-tron concept

Audi is presenting its first luxury-class e-tron concept car – a technology study known as the Audi A6 L e-tron concept at Auto China 2012 in Beijing. The plug-in hybrid has a powerful drive system that enables a driving range of 80 km (49.71 miles) on pure electric power, and it was specifically designed to fulfill Chinese needs.

The A6 L e-tron concept is an important step towards future electric mobility in China for Audi. With its first e-tron technology study in the luxury class, the company is showing what a locally produced New Energy Vehicle from Audi might look like.

The basis for this study is the new A6 L, the most successful premium automobile and Audi's bestselling model in China. Audi produces this business sedan at the Changchun plant in a joint venture with FAW.

The A6 L e-tron concept is precisely tailored to the requirements of Chinese customers. Plug-in hybrids that can travel long distances electrically – thereby enabling zero emissions driving in local areas – are ideal for use in rapidly growing megacities. Beyond its drive system, the A6 L e-tron concept has all of the qualities that customers value in Audi cars: prestige, comfort and sporty performance.

Parallel hybrid system: intelligently combined TFSI and electric motor

The technology study is a parallel hybrid. It brings together a 2.0 TFSI that outputs 155 kW (211 hp) and an electric motor with 70 kW (95 hp) peak power. The liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery is located in a collision-protected space at the rear of the vehicle. In electric mode, the Audi A6 L e-tron concept can travel up to 80 km (49.71 miles) at a constant speed of 60 km/h (37.28 mph). At any given moment, the hybrid control module chooses the best suited operating mode with the focus on driving range.

This technology platform can be operated with only the internal combustion engine, only the electric drive, or in hybrid mode. In addition, it can recover energy during deceleration, or it can boost output power for strong acceleration by combining the two drives. The Audi A6 L e-tron concept delivers sporty performance.

Setting a course for the future: Audi's e-tron strategy

The rapid advance in urbanization and the associated need to reduce CO2 emissions are a key determining factor for new drive technologies. Audi views electric mobility as a key future technology and is working on highly efficient solutions that simultaneously offer the customer a typical Audi driving experience.

Audi has already launched electrified drive systems in volume production with full hybrid models that have highly advanced lithium-ion technology. The Q5 hybrid quattro, A6 hybrid and A8 hybrid can drive up to three kilometers (1.86 miles) on electric power. In combined mode, which uses the internal combustion engine and electric motor, customers experience sporty driving performance and significantly better fuel economy.

The next step is to implement drive systems in which electric driving is the primary focus. The term Audi e-tron refers to technologies ranging from PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) to range extenders and finally vehicles powered purely by electric batteries or fuel cells.

In its first Audi e-tron concept car, Audi already showed how this future might look. And in the case of the R8 e-tron, this vision will be realized in a short production run later this year.

Audi is using A1 e-tron and A3 e-tron test vehicles to acquire important customer feedback, which can be incorporated in later production cars. The first product will be the A3 e-tron in 2014. It will be followed by other New Energy Vehicles. In this way, e-tron will become established as a further attractive drive technology option alongside TDI and TFSI.

Elegant: the styling

The Audi A6 L e-tron concept is notable for its elegant styling. The sedan, which has a 3.01 meter (9.88 feet) wheelbase, is 5.02 meters (16.47 feet) long and 1.87 meters (6.14 feet) wide, but only 1.46 meters (4.79 feet) tall. Its long engine hood, its low, extended roof line and the sharp lines on its sides create an athletic overall look. Characteristic Audi LED headlights emphasize the car's determined expression.

The car's exterior styling shows its differences from the production car. At the front, the single-frame grille with its slender cross-bars and the nearly covered air intakes attract the eye – both features are typical of all e-tron models. Powerful 21-inch wheels in e-tron design and the special rear diffuser highlight the car's progressive character. On the body, signatures identify the prototype's technology, while under the engine hood a styling capsule covers engine components. A ribbed contour at its center symbolizes the hybrid drive.

Lightweight and strong with Audi ultra: the body

The body of the A6 L e-tron concept is identical to that of the Audi A6 L. It is lightweight, rigid and safe to a maximum degree, due to application of the ultra lightweight principle. Consisting of approximately ten percent aluminum, it weighs about 15 percent less than a comparable all-steel design. Aluminum components in the load-bearing structure and exterior skin, as well as the high-tech steels used in the occupant cell, make the body significantly lighter.

Each new future Audi model will be lighter in weight than the previous model. This makes the brand a frontrunner in reversing the upward weight spiral. In designing car bodies, developers will intelligently use new combinations of materials, including carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP). For Audi, ultra lightweight construction does not solely focus on one material, rather it seeks a flexible approach that utilizes a wide variety of materials – but with one goal: to attain the best performance with the least material usage at the best places.

Furthermore, advanced materials and construction methods achieve an extremely low sound level in the interior of the Audi A6 L e-tron concept. Excellent vibration comfort is attained by fine-tuning components and by hydraulically damping axle and drive mounts.

Comfortable and sporty: the chassis

Audi's ultra lightweight construction competence is also found in the chassis, which combines a high level of comfort with sporty handling. The links are made of aluminum. The power steering, like the brake booster and the air conditioning compressor, utilizes an electromechanical drive.

At the limits of performance in driving through curves, the electronic transverse differential lock – a function of electronic stabilization control (ESC) – stabilizes the Audi A6 L e-tron concept by making small interventions at the front wheel on the outside of the curve.

Luxurious: interior and features

As in the Audi A6 L before it, the interior of the technology platform continues the elegant styling of its exterior design. Its defining element is an arc under the windshield – the wrap-around – that surrounds the driver and front passenger. The front of the instrument panel is designed in the form of a flowing wave. All of the interior details illustrate the aesthetic standard with which Audi builds its vehicles. All materials have been carefully selected and meticulously worked into the design.

The controls are intuitive. The powermeter replaces the tachometer; its pointer indicates total drive system power on a scale of zero to 100 percent. Colored segments indicate the current operating state of the A6 L e-tron concept; an auxiliary instrument visualizes the charge state of the lithium-ion battery.

Meanwhile, the energy flow indicator tells the driver the current operating mode and which hybrid drive components are currently active. It can be called up from the driver information system or MMI monitor. The large screen shows a bar diagram of average fuel economy and indicates the amount of recovered energy over five-minute intervals.

The Audi A6 L e-tron concept offers a lot of space at all seating positions. It integrates all of the model line's luxury-class features. The seats offer ventilation and massage functions, the Bose surround system delivers good sound, and the deluxe automatic air conditioning system with air ionizer ensures a pleasant climate in the car. Ambient lighting adds subtle highlights to the interior illumination.

The driver assistance and safety systems also satisfy the highest standards. Audi active lane assist supports the driver in lane-keeping, while Audi side assist helps to change lanes. When it is dark, the night vision assistant highlights detected pedestrians even at a distance; the parking assistant helps in parking. The Audi pre sense system can reduce the severity of accidents and their consequences in many cases.

The car's features also include MMI navigation plus. Many functions of the large hard-drive navigation system can be controlled by touchpad character input; the touch-sensitive pad, MMI touch, recognizes 29,000 Chinese characters. A team of engineers developed these functions at the Audi Infotainment Tech Center (ITC) in Beijing, where infotainment components from Germany are adapted to suit the wishes of Chinese customers.