Electric Audi R8 ePerformance Concept Car

2009 Audi R8 ePerformance preview

Audi currently sells two versions of its R8 supercar, the original 4.2-liter V-8 model and the recently revealed 5.2-liter V-10 version, but there are several more versions in the works, two of which may be on display at next month’s Frankfurt Auto Show. The two new versions are the R8 Spyder convertible, as well as the long-rumored electric R8 ePerformance concept car.

News earlier this year claimed Audi would present an electric concept version of the R8 at the upcoming Frankfurt event, though it wasn't clear whether it would have been some kind of hybrid or an all-electric version. Audi has since tried to downplay suggestions that an electric R8 is in the works but with Mercedes-Benz already confirming development of an electric version of its upcoming SLS AMG sports car and BMW set to reveal a new environmentally friendly sports car concept Audi would be left as the odd one out.

If the ePorformance concept is in the works, it’s expected that to feature significant changes to the standard R8 bodywork, as this computer generated rendering suggests.

This year’s Frankfurt event will be very busy for Audi as the event is also expected to see the debut of the new A5 Sportback model, which you can read about by clicking here.

Audi A4 Sets New Production Benchmark: 5 Million Units

As Audi continues to bolster its sales momentum both in the U.S. and internationally, the automaker announced it had reached a major new production landmark. When a 2011 Audi A4 Avant 3.0 TDI quattro recently came down the line in Ingolstadt, Germany, it marked the 5 millionth A4 to be produced since the car was first launched in 1994.

Said Peter Kössler, Ingolstadt plant manager: “The A4 success story at this production plant is impressive evidence of the performance that the Ingolstadt team is capable of. As the assembly lines become more and more complex, the task can only be handled with lean processes and the motivation of a high-performance team—just like we have at Audi.” 

Sneak Peak At The All-New Audi Q5 Hybrid

Audi is preparing to unveil an all-new hybrid version of its Q5 crossover at the LA Auto Show. Just ahead of this models’ debut, Audi has released a pair of videos highlighting this innovative new powertrain.

Powering the Audi Q5 Hybrid will be a 208 horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine coupled to a 44 horsepower electric motor. This efficient powertrain will even produce an impressive 354 pound-feet of torque.

Israel Orders Million-Dollar Armored Audi A8

The President of the United States gets from point A to point B inside the confines of the posh, but highly armored, Cadillac One. But other heads of state also demand vehicles that provide protection and style. That’s why the Prime Minister of Israel gets none other than a specially-commissioned Audi A8 Security.

This recently ordered vehicle is based on the Audi A8, presumably the long-wheel base model, with a 450 horsepower, 6-liter W-12 engine and Quattro all-wheel drive. Additionally, it will receive B6+ and B7 ballistic protection, run-flat tires, an independent oxygen supply for the cabin, a fire-suppression system, explosive charges to free the doors in case of shockwaves, a DVD entertainment system, drinks fridge and even a humidor.

Audi Hits One Million Sales In China

China has overtaken the United States as the world’s largest auto market, so it’s no wonder why so many brands are clamoring for more market share there.  Audi is one automaker that has seen tremendous success in this region, having just sold its one millionth vehicle in China.

Next generation Audi A3 sedan exclusive for North America

Audi is determined to take the lead as the best selling luxury brand in the world by 2015. Accomplishing this goal will entail aggressiveness on the carmaker’s part as it plans to roll out quite a number of new car models.

The car manufacturer is looking at about 42 different car units being marketed by mid of the next decade. Audi is looking at the A7 4-door coupe, A1 minicar, Q3 Crossover, and even a production of its e-tron concept vehicle.

Other vehicles to beef up the line up will be variations of their existing models. One of the highly awaited units is the next generation of Audi A3 sedan. According to insiders, the 2013 model A3 sedan will be distributed exclusively in North America.

The financial crisis and weakening dollar has forced Audi to cutback on its plans to launch cars like the A3 convertible and A1 minicar in the United States. However, North America will still see the hybrid version of the Q5 before the year ends, A7 by 2011, and the A3 sedan by 2012.

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2011 Audi RS5 in the Spotlight

The Audi RS4 which was released back in 2005 was not expected by everyone to meet headon the BMW M3. Thanks to the quattro AWD, good weight distribution, and a powerful V-8, the RS4 was able to upset its rivals. We are not expecting a replacement of the RS4 since Audi only releases the new version during the final years of a car’s run but carmaker is set to unveil the RS5 to fill in the gap.

The 2011 RS5 from Audi will be uncovered during the Geneva Motor Show this March, and it will have an upgraded powerplant from the RS4 under its hood. The RS5 will have an FSI V-8 engine with a displacement of 4.2L. The engine will have an output of 450 horsepower and will have a torque of 317.15 pound feet between 4000 and 6000 rpm.

The powerful engine of the RS5 will be coupled with a dual clutch gearbox that allows you to shift on 7 speeds with S tronic. The car will also have a center differential for the quattro AWD. The new Audi speed machine can rush from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.6 seconds and is expected to have a top speed of 174 mph.

Despite the impressive performance numbers, the car manages to have a fuel mileage of 21.8 miles per gallon.

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