Audi A4 2.0 TDI e : the new Ultra Efficient Compact Luxury Sedan

Press release

Audi announced today in Ingolstadt, Germany, the launch of an ultra efficient compact luxury sedan : the A4 2.0 TDI e. It will be available at European dealerships starting in early June.

Equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, this sedan uses 4.6 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (51.13 miles per U.S. gallon says the manufacturer). It consequently emits a mere 119 grams of CO2 per kilometer: the best value of any vehicle in its class.

"Efficiency is standard in every Audi. The A4 2.0 TDI e is particularly persuasive proof that efficiency, outstanding performance, comfort and driving enjoyment are not mutually exclusive," says Michael Dick, Board of Management Member for Technical Development at AUDI AG.

Efficient Performance
This 'e' model develops an output of 136 bhp (100 kW); it reaches 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 9.5 seconds and swiftly tops out at 215 km/h (133.59 mph).

The combined impact of several features facilitates the vehicle's increased efficiency. The standard start-stop system is especially effective during city driving.

Audi A4 2.0 TDI e

Start-Stop System Comes to the Rescue
As soon as the vehicle comes to a stop, the shift lever is in neutral, and the driver removes his or her foot from the clutch pedal, the system turns the engine off. The engine then turns back on as soon as the clutch pedal is depressed.

The start-stop system functions extremely quietly, smoothly, and quickly. While the driver is stepping on the clutch pedal to shift into first gear, the engine instantaneously returns to its idle speed. In the standardized driving cycle, the start-stop system reduces fuel consumption by some 0.2 liters/100 km, which equates to about 5 grams CO2/km (8.05 g/mile).

This 'e' model features a 6-speed manual transmission with a final- drive ratio higher by five percent -- enabling a reduction in engine speed in each of the six gears. The engine-management system has also been modified for maximum efficiency. Finally fuel-saving low-resistance tires (205/60R16) reduce rolling resistance and are exclusive to the A4 model line's 'e' model.

Standard equipment also includes the recovery of braking energy. Aided by intelligent alternator regulation, this system converts surplus kinetic energy to electrical energy during a vehicle's braking phases. This electrical energy is temporarily stored in the electrical system's battery. When the vehicle resumes acceleration, the battery supplies this stored energy to the vehicle's network -- reducing the load on the alternator and thus saving fuel.

What about North American ?
According the Cort Nielsen, Audi Canada's spokesperson, this new A4 model will not be available here in 2010. "Our first car, apart from the Q7 TDI," says Mr. Nielsen, "will be the A3 TDI which will be available towards the end of the year."

The mere fact that the European press release states this new A4 fuel consumption in "miles per U.S. gallon" suggests however an intention to sell it here eventually, or at least to bring similar fuel saving technologies to this continent.

The A4 2.0 TDI e can be ordered on the European market now and costs 30,800 euros (close to $50,000 CAN at the time of publication). This remarkably efficient A4 is also available as an Avant wagon.