In addition to presenting its new urban concept, Audi will host the world premiere of the 2012 A8 hybrid sedan at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show.
To achieve the kind of fuel savings hybrid car buyers look for, the V8 FSI has been replaced by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder TFSI engine and electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery in the trunk. Combined output is rated at 245 horsepower along with a hefty 345 lb-ft of torque.
Average fuel consumption drops below 6.4 litres per 100 kilometres. The sedan can travel at speeds of up to 100 km/h on electric power alone and cover around three kilometres with zero local emissions at a constant speed of 60 km/h. It also reaches 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds from a standing start and has a top velocity of 235 km/h. Part of the credit goes to the ultra-lightweight Audi Space Frame, made entirely of aluminum and roughly 40-percent lighter than a comparable steel construction.
The driver has a choice of three modes. The EV characteristic map gives priority to the electric drive, while the D mode efficiently controls both the engine and the electric motor. Finally, the S mode and the tiptronic gate are designed for a sporty driving style.
In terms of exterior design, the 2012 Audi A8 hybrid features 10-spoke, 18-inch alloy wheels (19 inches as an option) and hybrid badges. Arctic Silver is available as an exclusive paint finish.
Three-zone automatic air conditioning, LED headlights and a BOSE sound system come standard.
Release dates, pricing and global availability remain unknown for now, but expect Audi to provide full details in Frankfurt.
To achieve the kind of fuel savings hybrid car buyers look for, the V8 FSI has been replaced by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder TFSI engine and electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery in the trunk. Combined output is rated at 245 horsepower along with a hefty 345 lb-ft of torque.
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| Photo: Audi |
Average fuel consumption drops below 6.4 litres per 100 kilometres. The sedan can travel at speeds of up to 100 km/h on electric power alone and cover around three kilometres with zero local emissions at a constant speed of 60 km/h. It also reaches 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds from a standing start and has a top velocity of 235 km/h. Part of the credit goes to the ultra-lightweight Audi Space Frame, made entirely of aluminum and roughly 40-percent lighter than a comparable steel construction.
The driver has a choice of three modes. The EV characteristic map gives priority to the electric drive, while the D mode efficiently controls both the engine and the electric motor. Finally, the S mode and the tiptronic gate are designed for a sporty driving style.
In terms of exterior design, the 2012 Audi A8 hybrid features 10-spoke, 18-inch alloy wheels (19 inches as an option) and hybrid badges. Arctic Silver is available as an exclusive paint finish.
Three-zone automatic air conditioning, LED headlights and a BOSE sound system come standard.
Release dates, pricing and global availability remain unknown for now, but expect Audi to provide full details in Frankfurt.