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Autoweek and Fourtitude were able to enjoy some seat time in the Audi R8 V12 TDI LeMans concept before its official unveiling in Geneva last week. Their drive was short (about an hour with a 50 mph speed limit imposed by Audi’s boffins), but their time at the airport adjacent to Sebring International Raceway has made an impression.

The crimson beast we saw in Geneva was the same concept that was displayed in Detroit, simply sporting a new paint job, but spending quality time with the R8 V12 TDI revealed a few interesting tidbits about the concept. First, the firewall behind the driver and passenger had to be extended by some six-inches to accommodate the oilburner and although claimed torque output is somewhere in the 737 lb.-ft. range, the few journos asked to take part only got to experience 442 lb.-ft. of twist – a good thing considering that the transmission mated to the engine is an A4 case with modified internals.

While the performance was impressive, the short gearing and shorter redline (not disclosed) seemed to make all that grunt superfluous in first and second, but Audi is expecting the R8 V12 TDI to return around 24 mpg and meet the 2014 Euro 6 emissions standards if, and when, it goes on sale.

While the Autoweek piece only provided the “50/50″ quote in the title, the Fourtitude article is far more entertaining and informative — well worth a read.

Gallery: Audi R8 TDI Le Mans

Gallery: Audi R8 V12 TDI Concept

[Sources: Autoweek, Fourtitude]

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written by driive.com \\ tags: Audi

Audi had a fantastic year of sales in 2007. Among a number of record-setting statistics, sales rose 7.9 percent to $33.6 billion euros ($51.5 billion). Fortunately for Audi employees, the automaker recognizes that its fantastic fiscal performance wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of each and every little guy. Audi has decided to take some of its profits, around 222 million euro, and distribute it among some 45,000 employees at its Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm operations via the company’s extended employee profit sharing plan. The average Audi worker will get a 5,300 euro bonus, which equates to $8,138 USD. That’s a 43% increase compared to the bonuses handed out last year, and enough to buy a bitchin’ plasma TV with enough left over for a PS3 (or pay bills, whatever). Of course, the bonus varies per worker and consists of a undisclosed base amount, a seniority bonus and then the part that represents how well the company did that year. Regardless, Audi employees should be pretty pleased with themselves come pay day.

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written by driive.com \\ tags: Audi, Latest News

Audi has chosen the Geneva show to reveal the final production version of its Q7 V12 TDI.

It’s the most powerful turbodiesel passenger car in the world and has 493bhp on tap for 0-62mph in 5.5 seconds and a top speed of 155mph.

However, Audi says the hard-charging SUV will still return 23.7mpg in normal driving.

The range-topping turbodiesel SUV will be on sale by the summer of 2008 and will use the same 6.0-litre V12 turbodiesel engine as the car shown at Geneva.

Taking inspiration from luxury yachts, the ‘Coastline’ concept on show has its exterior finished in white and the interior is also trimmed in white leather.…continue reading

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written by driive.com \\ tags: Audi

Sun-drenched Los Angeles and snow-carpeted alpine Bavaria provide the inspiration for the Audi Cross Cabriolet quattro concept car, which makes its debut at the 2007 L.A Auto Show. Powered by the world’s cleanest diesel engine, and combining the sun worshipping potential of a classic cabriolet with the mountain-scaling agility of a quattro-equipped ‘off-roader’, the Cross Cabriolet quattro could form the basis of a future SUV model from Audi.

Deriving its fundamental chassis and drivetrain architecture from the modules used by the A5 coupe and new A4 saloon, and covering a similar ‘footprint’ on the road, the 4.62-metre long Cross Cabriolet quattro is powered by an even more efficient version of the 3.0-litre, 240PS V6 TDI engine incorporating a new ultra low emission system. Mounted longitudinally, the world’s cleanest diesel unit combines the benefits of state-of-the-art common rail injection with piezo crystal technology, exhaust gas recirculation and an exhaust after-treatment system. Using a special AdBlue additive, this new system reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 90 per cent.

The result is an engine which will satisfy stringent emissions limits all over the world, even in especially rigorously controlled U.S states such as California, New York and Vermont, and which will share its technology with other units in the range from 2008 onwards. This initiative will help Audi to meet its pledge to effect a 20 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions across its fleet by 2012.

As the Cross Cabriolet quattro ably demonstrates, the ultra low emission technology demands no sacrifices in performance. Through an eight-speed automatic transmission with a new lever design incorporating a gear selector ‘control wheel’, the SUV study translates 240PS and a healthy 500Nm of torque into a 0-62mph acceleration time of 7.2 seconds and a top speed of 149mph, without ruling out the potential to cover over 38mpg.

In the Cross Cabriolet quattro, the Audi drive select system automatically defaults to the ‘dynamic’ mode, which places equal emphasis on handling composure and comfort. When the ‘sport’ mode is selected, a more overtly performance and handling-biased program comes into play, with shock absorbers set to maximum firmness, throttle response further sharpened and transmission shift points moved higher up the rev range.

By contrast, the ‘efficiency’ setting majors on smooth, economical progress that brings fuel savings of well over 20 per cent compared with ‘dynamic’ mode. Here, the engine and transmission responses are moderated, the air conditioning system is automatically switched off and the parameters of the adaptive cruise control system are adjusted in favour of minimal fuel consumption. Route information gathered from the system is taken into account in determining braking distances.

The list of technological innovations includes futuristic satellite navigation technology using photorealistic 3D maps from Google Earth, a Bang & Olufsen sound system with internet radio, which provides access to the many radio stations broadcasting online. Tracks played by these stations can be ‘judged’ by the user, who can give a positive or negative verdict on each at the touch of a button. This helps the system to build a picture of their preferences and to offer a bespoke play list incorporating only the tracks that match them. The internet-based system also enables CD cover illustrations and track and artist background information to be displayed.

Source www.greencarsite.co.uk via yahoo

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written by driive.com \\ tags: Audi, Ecology, Emissions, environment

Fresh from ripping up the Le Mans racing rulebook with the diesel-powered R10 TDI, Audi is exploring the possibility of breaking yet another mould with a road-going TDI super car based on the R8. The R8 V12 TDI Concept makes its debut at this month’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit, replacing the production sports car’s mid-mounted petrol FSI V8 with a 12-cylinder TDI endowed with an incredible 1,000Nm of torque.

First seen in the forthcoming Q7 V12 TDI SUV, the 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 with 500PS is similar in basic concept to the R10 TDI’s 5.5-litre race engine, and delivers its colossal 1,000Nm output from just 1,750rpm, guaranteeing the effortless delivery of a 4.2-second 0-62mph acceleration time and a top speed in excess of 186mph.

Despite its astonishing statistics, this remarkable engine shows the necessary restraint when it comes to environmental impact. Its fundamental efficiency, achieved through the use of an advanced common rail fuel injection system enhanced by piezo injectors, is complemented by twin particulate filters and a new state-of-the-art ultra-low emission system that ensures compliance with proposed EU6 emission limits expected to apply from 2014.

The heart of the system is a special catalytic converter downstream of the oxidizing catalyst and the particulate filter. The second component is an additional tank containing an aqueous urea solution. Small quantities of the solution, known as “AdBlue,” are injected into the exhaust system. The hot exhaust gases break the solution down to form ammonia that splits the nitric oxides into inert nitrogen and water. The system remains effective for the entire service life of the vehicle.

The R8’s classic mid-engine configuration, combined with advanced Audi Space Frame (ASF) construction mating lightweight aluminium panelling to an aluminium space frame, provides the very best operating conditions for the futuristic chassis, which itself contains a high proportion of aluminium components.

News provided by www.greencarsite.co.uk via Yahoo

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written by driive.com \\ tags: Audi

Take a look at the most extreme diesel car ever built! One of the biggest stars of this year’s Detroit Motor Show is Audi’s mighty new R8 V12 TDI.

Powered by a thunderous twin-turbo 6.0-litre V12 powerplant, the oil-burning supercar promises to be even faster than its petrol powered sibling. A huge 493bhp and an earth-shattering 1,000Nm of torque will make this Audi a true thriller. The sprint from 0-62mph takes only 4.2 seconds – 0.4 seconds ahead of the petrol model.

But it’s the diesel engine that’s the star. It’s inspired by the same unit that powered Audi’s R10 to victory in the 2006 and 2007 Le Mans 24 Hours, and although slightly less extreme than the 650bhp race engine, it still delivers epic performance.

Another benefit of diesel power in the R8 is a major reduction in emissions. The car features common-rail fuel injection, plus a special catalytic converter which injects a urea-based solution called AdBlue into the exhaust to cut nitrous oxide output. As a result, the TDI already meets tough Euro VI emissions rules, which aren’t scheduled to come into effect until 2014.

Amazingly, it looks even more aggressive than the production version. At the front there’s a deeper front bumper, while the sides feature skirts with extra holes for cooling. On top the roof gets a panoramic glass panel and large NACA duct to feed air into the monsterous engine. Move around to the rear and you’ll spot a large spoiler and a diffuser below the bumper.

Inside, the R8 gets a one-off three-spoke steering wheel. This houses the engine start-stop button and Audi’s Drive Select switch, which allows the driver to choose between Dynamic, Sport or Race modes for the engine, transmission and magnetic dampers.

There’s no official word on when the R8 V12 TDI will go on sale, but it’s expected to arrive early in 2009.

Autoexpress

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written by driive.com \\ tags: Audi

Why the comparison?

It didn’t take a brain storming session to come up with this particular comparison test. As certain as night follows day and autumn moves into winter, high-performance Audis and BMWs will be pitted against each other. As far as enthusiasts are concerned, it was a fairly one-sided affair in the past, with BMW’s M-models being laughably more rewarding to steer than their four-wheel drive arch enemies from Audi. That all changed with the introduction of the Audi RS4, one of the very best-to-drive cars to ever come from Ingolstadt.

Even BMW devotees had to admit that the battle between the E46 M3 and the RS4 saloon was a closely fought one, especially as the RS4 was launched towards the end of the former’s life cycle. Now tables are turned and BMW’s all-new M3 is finally on sale globally, just as the RS4 is being sent out to pasture. It’s as compelling a comparison as ever though.

How are they similar?

Take a good long look at the technical specifications of these cars and you’ll have to search for any major differences. Both use high-revving V8 engines of about 4.0-litre capacity to produce an identical 414bhp. The Audi’s unit uses its extra 200cc of swept volume to belt out a little more torque, but the M3 counters by producing more of its torque more of the time. Thanks to nigh on identical kerb weights they’re inseparable against the clock too, both scorching off the line and slamming through the 62mph mark 4.8 seconds later.

Those are the facts. In less tangible terms, both the M3 and RS4 represent the top of their respective model ranges, but more than that, they are the halo models, a way for the companies to link their regular products to their motorsport efforts. Enthusiasts will get as excited about these cars as they will any supercar.

How do they differ?

Obviously the body style varies significantly here, with the RS4 also available in Cabriolet and Avant versions. Saying that, BMW has already revealed details of its new four-door M3 and we are certain there will be a Convertible version, though no Touring model. However, the body style is fairly irrelevant to most buyers of this sort of car. Sure, if you have to fit in the family you are unlikely to opt for the M3 Coupé, but how these cars drive and perform are deciding factors in their purchase.

On that note, the most fundamental difference between the M3 and RS4 is the axles through which they direct their power. BMW is sticking with its rear-drive layout while Audi utilises quattro four-wheel drive, albeit with more torque sent to the rear wheels than ever before. This is the key distinction and a point that will divide buyers.

So which one would we have?

This is such a tightly fought contest that it’s difficult to answer the question firmly in one way or another. There is very little difference between the cars in terms of performance, excitement or ability. The BMW does, however, offer a broader range of options for the keen driver, though the Audi is almost as good to drive. They both sound fantastic and even though the Audi is at the end of its life, it still cuts the mustard in terms of image and styling. In fact, it’s the most extrovert in appearance. However, if pushed into a corner to decide between these cars as a new purchase then it would have to be the M3. It delivers a fraction more driver involvement and the fact that it’s the newer car will make a big difference when it comes to resale value.

[Source yahoo motooring - Shane O’ Donoghue]

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written by driive.com \\ tags: Audi, BMW

What is it?

A Porsche beater. Yes, really! Audi’s first supercar attempt has caused a serious upset in the world of high performance cars. When Audi announced it was aiming at the 911 as a potential rival people thought it was being a touch ambitious. Sure, the R8 promised to look fantastic, the interior would be sensational and it might even make a rousing noise, but no way could Audi upset the established sports and supercar hierarchy with driver appeal. It does though, the R8 being something of a revelation, driving with the sort of ease we expect from Audi, with the incisive precision we’d expect from the likes of Porsche and Ferrari.

The looks alone make it hot property, Audi proud that it can’t build them quick enough for demand. Many hundreds of R8s have already been ordered by eager customers, so if you want one now, today, then you’d better be prepared to pay a premium, as there’s a lengthy waiting list. Being an Audi it’s got quattro four-wheel drive, but it’s tuned to feel rear-driven. The engine powering it comes from the now defunct, but much-loved RS4. It’s a glorious 4.2-litre V8 with 414bhp and a rousing soundtrack, though it’s actually quite hushed from inside. Typically, the cockpit is superbly finished, the R8 bearing all Audi’s usual interior hallmarks of fantastic quality, excellent ergonomics and design integrity.

Is it any good?

The R8 has really surprised people, winning numerous awards not just for the way it looks, but for the way it drives. That’s a huge compliment for Audi, as it’s never really been touted as a manufacturer of driver-focussed cars. Fast cars? Yes. Beautifully built and styled cars? Certainly. But those two have rarely combined with cars that really thrill on the road. The RS4, which donates its engine, proved that Audi had it in it to make fun-to-drive cars, and the R8 is the perfect model to drive the message home. The steering is light yet crisp; the ride smooth despite its focus - optional magnetic dampers make it even more capable - and the engine is always willing to deliver.

It feels like the real-deal supercar experience, as the 4.6 second 0-62mph time and 187mph top speed demonstrate. But there are differences. They’re good differences though, the R8 blending that supercar thrill with day-to-day usability. Visibility for such a low-slung car is excellent, the controls all work easily, the R8 the antithesis of supercars in this respect. It’s not all perfect though; opt for the R tronic paddle-shift transmission and you’re in for a jerky ride, those LED front lights are a bit over the top and from some angles, particularly in profile, the R8’s proportions look a touch odd. It’d also be great to hear that magnificent engine in the cabin a bit more.

Should I call the bank manager?

Given how long it’s likely to take between ordering and actually getting it you might well have the time to save up and not bother the bank. If you are lucky enough to be one of the early customers then you’ve a rock-solid investment on your hands, the R8 certain to be worth more than you paid for it for a while. So enjoy it for a few months then cash it in. You might find that tricky though, as it’s a rather appealing ownership proposition. It’s easy to drive, but rewarding on the right roads, undemanding yet not boring and it never fails to get you noticed, which after all, is what most people buy cars like this for.

Summary

Audi has created something really special with the R8, so it is hardly surprising that customers are fighting to get their hands on them. And this is only just the start as there’s a V10 version on the way that promises to be even more special. Rival manufacturers must be very worried indeed.

[source yahoo]

…more pics

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written by driive.com \\ tags: Audi

Audi of America, Inc. today announced its exclusive automotive sponsorship of Design Miami/2007, the most prominent and substantial forum for international design. For the second year, Audi is both a sponsor and creative exhibitor at the forum, which lasts from December 7th through 9th, and brings together the world’s most influential designers, art gallery owners, dealers, and collectors to present and absorb the latest trends from the world of design.

“The commitment to innovative design has long been the single most defining feature of Audi’s corporate philosophy. Audi has created design icons such as the Audi R8 super sports car, just picked as the best-looking automobile in the world,” says Johan de Nysschen, Executive Vice President in charge of Audi of America, Inc. “Design Miami/ is quite simply the single leading global forum for the exhibition and collection of contemporary design. This partnership is a natural fit for our brand.”

The partnership of Audi and Design Miami/ started in 2006 and will continue this year with both the Miami and Basel, Switzerland fairs.

“As exclusive automotive sponsor of Design Miami/, Audi continues to enrich our program each year by presenting examples of living, racing, revving design and this year is no exception,” says Ambra Medda, Creative Director and co-founder of Design Miami/. “We really thank Audi for their commitment to this dynamic collaboration.”

Attracting interest from the international design and art scene, Design Miami/ is an ideal stage for Audi to showcase itself as a leader in design and a place to find further inspiration. Audi’s chief designer Stefan Sielaff also believes: “Future trends and emerging developments are best detected where free art and applied art meet.”

This year, Audi will present the “Wire Frame” concept, an exhibition that focuses on the essence of creativity: the design process itself. “Wire Frame” refers to the preliminary stage in design, wherein the simplified structure of the vehicle’s sculpture is depicted digitally as a lattice model. With this exhibition, Audi seeks to capture the moment at which the draft begins its journey from a series of pencil lines to a three-dimensional work of art.

The centerpiece of the “Wire Frame” exhibition is the design study for the Audi Cross Cabriolet quattro concept, which celebrated its successful premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November. Sturdy, powerful, yet elegant, the styling will captivate viewers.

The final product of the design process — the car itself — will be accompanied by an Audi Design Lab set up specifically for Design Miami/2007. This is the first ever opportunity for visitors to witness Audi designers in action, as they sketch renderings and craft models out of clay.

Audi will also present a panel discussion entitled, “The human element. How are designers preserving soul in the 21st Century?” Panelists include the French designer Matali Crasset, renowned architect Chad Oppenheim, Swiss landscape designer Enzo Enea and Audi’s chief designer Stefan Sielaff. These international design luminaries represent four different disciplines and will provide fascinating insights into their work and sources of inspiration in a highly digitized world.

About Audi of America

Audi of America, Inc., offers a line of luxury vehicles that include the Audi A3 sport compact; the sporty A4 and S4 sedan, Avant, and Cabriolet models; the high-performance RS 4 sports sedan and Cabriolet; the all-new S5 coupe with a 354-horsepower engine; the A6 sedan and Avant; the V10-powered high-performance S6 sedan; the newly updated flagship A8 and S8 luxury sedans available with 8, 10, and 12 cylinders; the Audi Q7 performance SUV; the all- new for 2008 TT Coupe and Roadster models; and the all-aluminum R8 mid-engine supercar, one of the most exclusive sportscars in the world. Audi’s 270 dealers sold 90,116 vehicles in the United States during 2006. Information regarding the Audi brand and products can be found at www.audiusa.com, and information for media can be found at www.media.audiusa.com.

About Design Miami/

Design Miami/ is the most prominent and substantive forum for international design, representing convergence of commerce and culture. Its annual shows in Basel, Switzerland (June) and Miami, USA (December) bring together the most influential designers, collectors, dealers and critics from around the world. For more information please visit www.designmiami.com.

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written by driive.com \\ tags: Audi, Business

German premium car maker Audi (NSUG.DE: Quote, Profile, Research) on Friday launched production of a convertible version of its A3 vehicle at the firm’s Hungarian plant. Audi declined to provide planned output figures for the new car, but said its predecessor, the A3, had sold over 1.8 million units worldwide.

The first new A3 rolled off the assembly line during a ceremonial start of production in Gyor, Audi’s Hungarian plant, attended by Audi AG Chairman Rupert Stadler and Hungarian Prime Minister Ferenc Gyurcsany.

Besides Audi’s TT and TT Roadster sports cars, this will be the third model to be assembled in Hungary.

“Audi Hungaria has a proven track record over the past several years with production of the Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster,” Stadler said.

“We are confident that production of the A3 Cabriolet will significantly contribute to our strategic goal of making 1.5 million cars a year by 2015,” he said.

Audi’s Hungarian unit plans to manufacture 50,000 cars this year, but it declined comment on how many of the new A3 models this would include.

Audi Hungaria, one of Hungary’s biggest exporters, made 23,675 cars and 1.9 million engines last year....contiued

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written by driive.com \\ tags: Audi