DTM Barcelona: Scandal as Audi withdraw
A mass withdrawal from the DTM race at Barcelona by Audi overshadowed Jamie Green's maiden victory at the Catalunya circuit.
Audi management took the unprecedented step of withdrawing all of their cars after its principal title charges Martin Tomcyk and Mattias Ekstrom were involved in controversial crashes.
Audi Sport issued a statement claiming, "the Mercedes drivers used every opportunity to eliminate our cars."
The race began with Audi's Tomcyk on pole and he led Mercedes' Mika Hakkinen cleanly away at the start.
But what happened next between the pair was not so clean. Hakkinen caught Tomcyk's draught down the straight on lap six and was squeezed to the very inside of the first corner. Hakkinen braked too deep and the pair made contact, putting Hakkinen out and delaying Tomcyk.
Tomcyk's team mate and championship rival Ekstrom made his first pit stop around the same time leaving Mercedes driver in control of the race - Bruno Spengler leading from Bernd Schneider and Jamie Green.
Ekstrom's early pit stop left him battling in the pack and he caught Daniel la Rosa on lap 14. The pair were battling for position and when Ekstrom passed la Rosa on lap 14 he squeezed his rival off the track. La Rosa lost control on the grass and side-swiped Ekstrom's car, putting both out.
He later denied that he had continued to accelerate when he had been put on the grass and insisted that he had braked. But the stewards nonetheless penalised him and Hakkinen with fines and ten place grid penalties for the next race.
Tomcyk meanwhile was battling back through the field, moving up to seventh after his first pit stop but losing time running wide at turn one on lap 25. But he wasn't to last much longer - a problem with his battered car surfaced on his second pit stop and he subsequently retired.
That left Spengler looking at an open goal in terms of scoring championship points but he was delayed by a drive-through penalty. Schneider was eliminated with car failure which left Green poised to scoop his first ever win.
Further back the incidents continued. Spengler tried to pass Lucas Luhr around the outside but Luhr pushed Spengler wide and kept the position.
On lap 37 Mattias Lauda and Timo Scheider clashed, the contact sending Scheider's Audi into retirement. Temperatures were boiling on the Audi pit wall, but it was har do apportion blame for the collision.
The team finally snapped when Spengler passed Mike Rockenfeller on lap 46. Rockenfeller had defended his position very strongly and Spengler had gone up the inside of the Audi on the exit of La Caixa. The pair squeezed each other, contact was inevitable, and Rockenfeller was knocked across the gravel trap.
On the pitwall, Audi boss Wolfgang Ullrich had had enough. He ordered all remaining seven Audis directly into the pits to withdraw in response to the string of incidents. That ended the races of Rockenfeller, Luhr, Tom Kristensen, Alexandre Premat, Christian Abt, Markus Winklehock and Vaninia Ickx.
That left just six Mercedes circulating with Green leading. Paul di Resta, second, let Spengler past as per team orders but Green, as a first team driver, was spared the order and left to claim his maiden victory - although he clearly earned and wasn't involved in any of the controversy, it's likely that it will be somewhat overshadowed.
It remains to be seen what the consequences will be for the DTM - and Audi's participation in it - following this controversial twist.
Source: http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/forum/racing-forums/34385-audi-retires-barcelona.html
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Sunday, September 30, 2007
Ronaldinho, Lionel Messi, Thierry Henry Test Drive Audi R8
Before the official hand-over of the vehicles in Barcelona, where the DTM is staging its penultimate race on Sunday, the footballers experienced the fascination of the Audi models in a special way: They had the chance to complete a few fast laps in the new Audi R8 sports car and proved to be as sporty as safe in their driving style. No wonder, after all, the two Audi factory drivers Mattias Ekström and Tom Kristensen had shared a few tips and tricks with the footballers. The favourite for the champion's title from Sweden and the seven-time winner of Le Mans accompanied the driver safety training which Audi had arranged for the players of FC Barcelona and chauffeured part of the team around the circuit in an Audi A4 DTM race taxi.
The footballers and the racers had already met the night before: Mattias Ekström and Tom Kristensen attended the Champions League home match of FC Barcelona against Olympique Lyon at Camp Nou, Europe's largest football stadium. "To watch this team play together with a crowd of 80,000 was an impressive experience," raved football fan Kristensen after the home victory.
Source: http://newcars.jinjinblog.com/2007/09/ronaldinho-lionel-messi-thierry-henry.html
New Audi A1 prototype testing
If you ask me, these spy photos shows not much more than a pimped VW Polo, but there is no place for doubts that this is Audi's mule when you look at the licence plates, this prototype comes from Ingolstadt, Audi's home turf. What this will turn into we can expect to see at the upcoming Tokio Motor Show where Audi supposed to show conceptual look of the new A1; meanwhile we can play with PhotoShop
According to some reports, new A1 should debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, but knowing that it is already under active engineering and prototype testing I wouldnt be surprised if it happens earlier.
Source: http://www.autoportal.co.ba/new-audi-a1-prototype-testing/
Audi retires from Barcelona
DTM Barcelona: Scandal as Audi withdraw
A mass withdrawal from the DTM race at Barcelona by Audi overshadowed Jamie Green's maiden victory at the Catalunya circuit.
Audi management took the unprecedented step of withdrawing all of their cars after its principal title charges Martin Tomcyk and Mattias Ekstrom were involved in controversial crashes.
Audi Sport issued a statement claiming, "the Mercedes drivers used every opportunity to eliminate our cars."
The race began with Audi's Tomcyk on pole and he led Mercedes' Mika Hakkinen cleanly away at the start.
But what happened next between the pair was not so clean. Hakkinen caught Tomcyk's draught down the straight on lap six and was squeezed to the very inside of the first corner. Hakkinen braked too deep and the pair made contact, putting Hakkinen out and delaying Tomcyk.
Tomcyk's team mate and championship rival Ekstrom made his first pit stop around the same time leaving Mercedes driver in control of the race - Bruno Spengler leading from Bernd Schneider and Jamie Green.
Ekstrom's early pit stop left him battling in the pack and he caught Daniel la Rosa on lap 14. The pair were battling for position and when Ekstrom passed la Rosa on lap 14 he squeezed his rival off the track. La Rosa lost control on the grass and side-swiped Ekstrom's car, putting both out.
He later denied that he had continued to accelerate when he had been put on the grass and insisted that he had braked. But the stewards nonetheless penalised him and Hakkinen with fines and ten place grid penalties for the next race.
Tomcyk meanwhile was battling back through the field, moving up to seventh after his first pit stop but losing time running wide at turn one on lap 25. But he wasn't to last much longer - a problem with his battered car surfaced on his second pit stop and he subsequently retired.
That left Spengler looking at an open goal in terms of scoring championship points but he was delayed by a drive-through penalty. Schneider was eliminated with car failure which left Green poised to scoop his first ever win.
Further back the incidents continued. Spengler tried to pass Lucas Luhr around the outside but Luhr pushed Spengler wide and kept the position.
On lap 37 Mattias Lauda and Timo Scheider clashed, the contact sending Scheider's Audi into retirement. Temperatures were boiling on the Audi pit wall, but it was har do apportion blame for the collision.
The team finally snapped when Spengler passed Mike Rockenfeller on lap 46. Rockenfeller had defended his position very strongly and Spengler had gone up the inside of the Audi on the exit of La Caixa. The pair squeezed each other, contact was inevitable, and Rockenfeller was knocked across the gravel trap.
On the pitwall, Audi boss Wolfgang Ullrich had had enough. He ordered all remaining seven Audis directly into the pits to withdraw in response to the string of incidents. That ended the races of Rockenfeller, Luhr, Tom Kristensen, Alexandre Premat, Christian Abt, Markus Winklehock and Vaninia Ickx.
That left just six Mercedes circulating with Green leading. Paul di Resta, second, let Spengler past as per team orders but Green, as a first team driver, was spared the order and left to claim his maiden victory - although he clearly earned and wasn't involved in any of the controversy, it's likely that it will be somewhat overshadowed.
It remains to be seen what the consequences will be for the DTM - and Audi's participation in it - following this controversial twist.
Source: http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/forum/racing-forums/34385-audi-retires-barcelona.html
A mass withdrawal from the DTM race at Barcelona by Audi overshadowed Jamie Green's maiden victory at the Catalunya circuit.
Audi management took the unprecedented step of withdrawing all of their cars after its principal title charges Martin Tomcyk and Mattias Ekstrom were involved in controversial crashes.
Audi Sport issued a statement claiming, "the Mercedes drivers used every opportunity to eliminate our cars."
The race began with Audi's Tomcyk on pole and he led Mercedes' Mika Hakkinen cleanly away at the start.
But what happened next between the pair was not so clean. Hakkinen caught Tomcyk's draught down the straight on lap six and was squeezed to the very inside of the first corner. Hakkinen braked too deep and the pair made contact, putting Hakkinen out and delaying Tomcyk.
Tomcyk's team mate and championship rival Ekstrom made his first pit stop around the same time leaving Mercedes driver in control of the race - Bruno Spengler leading from Bernd Schneider and Jamie Green.
Ekstrom's early pit stop left him battling in the pack and he caught Daniel la Rosa on lap 14. The pair were battling for position and when Ekstrom passed la Rosa on lap 14 he squeezed his rival off the track. La Rosa lost control on the grass and side-swiped Ekstrom's car, putting both out.
He later denied that he had continued to accelerate when he had been put on the grass and insisted that he had braked. But the stewards nonetheless penalised him and Hakkinen with fines and ten place grid penalties for the next race.
Tomcyk meanwhile was battling back through the field, moving up to seventh after his first pit stop but losing time running wide at turn one on lap 25. But he wasn't to last much longer - a problem with his battered car surfaced on his second pit stop and he subsequently retired.
That left Spengler looking at an open goal in terms of scoring championship points but he was delayed by a drive-through penalty. Schneider was eliminated with car failure which left Green poised to scoop his first ever win.
Further back the incidents continued. Spengler tried to pass Lucas Luhr around the outside but Luhr pushed Spengler wide and kept the position.
On lap 37 Mattias Lauda and Timo Scheider clashed, the contact sending Scheider's Audi into retirement. Temperatures were boiling on the Audi pit wall, but it was har do apportion blame for the collision.
The team finally snapped when Spengler passed Mike Rockenfeller on lap 46. Rockenfeller had defended his position very strongly and Spengler had gone up the inside of the Audi on the exit of La Caixa. The pair squeezed each other, contact was inevitable, and Rockenfeller was knocked across the gravel trap.
On the pitwall, Audi boss Wolfgang Ullrich had had enough. He ordered all remaining seven Audis directly into the pits to withdraw in response to the string of incidents. That ended the races of Rockenfeller, Luhr, Tom Kristensen, Alexandre Premat, Christian Abt, Markus Winklehock and Vaninia Ickx.
That left just six Mercedes circulating with Green leading. Paul di Resta, second, let Spengler past as per team orders but Green, as a first team driver, was spared the order and left to claim his maiden victory - although he clearly earned and wasn't involved in any of the controversy, it's likely that it will be somewhat overshadowed.
It remains to be seen what the consequences will be for the DTM - and Audi's participation in it - following this controversial twist.
Source: http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/forum/racing-forums/34385-audi-retires-barcelona.html
Ronaldinho, Lionel Messi, Thierry Henry Test Drive Audi R8
Before the official hand-over of the vehicles in Barcelona, where the DTM is staging its penultimate race on Sunday, the footballers experienced the fascination of the Audi models in a special way: They had the chance to complete a few fast laps in the new Audi R8 sports car and proved to be as sporty as safe in their driving style. No wonder, after all, the two Audi factory drivers Mattias Ekström and Tom Kristensen had shared a few tips and tricks with the footballers. The favourite for the champion's title from Sweden and the seven-time winner of Le Mans accompanied the driver safety training which Audi had arranged for the players of FC Barcelona and chauffeured part of the team around the circuit in an Audi A4 DTM race taxi.
The footballers and the racers had already met the night before: Mattias Ekström and Tom Kristensen attended the Champions League home match of FC Barcelona against Olympique Lyon at Camp Nou, Europe's largest football stadium. "To watch this team play together with a crowd of 80,000 was an impressive experience," raved football fan Kristensen after the home victory.
Source: http://newcars.jinjinblog.com/2007/09/ronaldinho-lionel-messi-thierry-henry.html
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Chevrolet Concept Car
The Chevrolet WTCC Ultra has got what it takes to be a star. Not just because its rear spoiler shoots so brashly up towards the heavens. The bold and aggressive design of the sports car study takes the Chevrolet body language to the extreme. "We wanted to explore the concept of a Chevrolet muscle car reinvented for Europe," says David Lyon, Executive Director GM Asia-Pacific Design.
The Chevrolet WTCC Ultra concept car is equipped with a powerful 1,991 cm3 diesel unit generating 139 kW/190 hp. The basic version of the four-cylinder engine is the common rail unit with four-valve technology and variable turbine blade geometry currently powering the Chevrolet Captiva and due to go into the Epica from spring 2007.
For Ewan Kingsbury, the Lead Designer of the WTCC Ultra, "aggressive", "muscular" and "dramatic" are the words that first spring to mind when he is asked to describe the design of the new project. "As the chosen theme of the car was a concept racecar, this immediately gave me license to push the passion and aggression of the styling to the extreme".
The Chevrolet WTCC Ultra concept car is equipped with a powerful 1,991 cm3 diesel unit generating 139 kW/190 hp. The basic version of the four-cylinder engine is the common rail unit with four-valve technology and variable turbine blade geometry currently powering the Chevrolet Captiva and due to go into the Epica from spring 2007.
For Ewan Kingsbury, the Lead Designer of the WTCC Ultra, "aggressive", "muscular" and "dramatic" are the words that first spring to mind when he is asked to describe the design of the new project. "As the chosen theme of the car was a concept racecar, this immediately gave me license to push the passion and aggression of the styling to the extreme".
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Dodge ASC Viper Diamondback Concept
The American company ASC (American Specialty Cars) showed its creative expertise by unveiling a supercar made even more super by the addition of a mostly carbon-fiber body.A "snake" with an all-new skin, the ASC Viper Diamondback is super-light and super-fast. It’s fitting that ASC, which helped the Chrysler Group bring the new Dodge Viper SRT10 coupe to life, would, with the aid of McLaren Performance Technologies, show how the Viper coupe might be taken to an all-new level of “extreme.” The 615 bhp Viper Diamondback features a carbon fiber roof, deck lid, rockers, fascia inserts, body trim and a massive OmniCarbon hood that shows off ten unique trumpeted air intakes, with individual port throttles, peeking through - a McLaren Performance Technologies feature reminiscent of McLaren Can-Am engines of the past.
The hood also shows off compression-molded carbon fiber. It’s displayed beautifully, with a broad, clearcoated racing stripe down the Artic White-painted expanse, subtly outlined by “Viper Blue” and “McLaren Red” pinstripes. In all, ASC removed about 85 lbs. of weight from the vehicle - including cutting the weight of the hood by nearly half versus the production model. Taken together with the powertrain modifications by McLaren Performance Technologies, the power-to-weight ratio was increased, resulting in an estimated increase in 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds.
Novitec Evolves the Ferrari F430
The performance of the established Novitec Bi Compressor engine has been improved to 656 bhp with the new Evoluzione version with modified turbine-blades and separated oil-circuit, modified and a completely heat insulated enlarged induction tract, a new underbody air tract and modified ECU. The additional power of 20 bhp drastically increase the driving performance of the 636 bhp version.
In close collaboration of both technology departments, Brembo developed the new Novitec brake system with 380mm discs and 6-pistons at the front and rear axle. The outstanding deceleration values offer complete security in all situations.
The driving stability, also at high speed in the curves, is improved by the Novitec suspension and stronger anti sway bars. The complete set of wheels, NF2 Race in black with a car-color matching stripe and Pirelli Pzero Rosso tires provide a strong grip.
In the wind tunnel of the Research Institute for Motor Vehicles in Stuttgart, the aerodynamic functionality of the Novitec body components were checked. Thanks to these tests, not only the design of the F430 is underlined, but also the negative lift force is increased. The interior is individualized with exclusive materials and design.
The Engine
- Novitec Bi – compressor with two Rotrex – compressors with separated oil-circuit, modified and enlarged induction tract complete heat-insulated, watercooled intercoolers with additional watercoolers, pumps, reinforced v-ripped belts, injectors, air tract duct in underbody as well as modified ECU’s.
- Power-optimized exhaust system in stainless steel with 90mm outlets, modified gear ratio.
The Brakes
- Brembo brake system with 380mm metal discs front and rear and 6-pistons brake callipers at the front and rear axle.
The Suspension
- KW stainless steel coil over suspension Sport (dual adjustment), complete wheel set NF2 Race, front axle 9.0 x 19 inches with 255/30 R19 Pirelli P-Zero Rosso, rear axle 12.5 x 20 inches with 345/25 R20 Pirelli P-Zero Rosso.
Aerodynamic
- Front bumper Supersport, rear diffuser, rear wing Supersport, skirts for side panels.
The Interior
Complete interior leather appointment kit Supersport in two colours Alcantara with Supersport Performance seats, steering wheel Supersport, aluminum pedal set with driver and passenger foot rest.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Audi to launch Q7 Hybrid in 2008
The Audi Q7 was the last SUV model to launch from the platform shared with the Volkswagen Touareg and Porsche Cayenne but it looks like it will be the first to launch a hybrid version. Automotive News is reporting that Audi will start production of the hybrid Q7 in late 2008, several months after introducing the new diesel models in the US market.
The hybrid system is being developed in conjunction with VW and Porsche. They have made the system modular so that it can be adapted to other vehicles in the product lineup. Porsche has already indicated that they will use the system on the upcoming Panamera sedan in addition to the Cayenne.
In the Q7 it will be paired up with a 3.6L V-6 and should yield about 23mpg. The electric part of the drivetrain will be able to drive the vehicle at up to 31 mph and the engine can be shut off at speeds up to 75 mph when coasting.
Source: http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/09/11/audi-to-launch-q7-hybrid-in-2008/
Audi A5 receives two new engines
Audi, the German automaker continues to extend its A5 line. The recently launched A5 coupe receives now two new engines: a 3.2 FSI quattro and a 1.8 TFSI.
The 3.2 FSI engine helps the A5 to sprints from 0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds while the top speed is electronically limited at 250 km/h. The 1.8 TFSI engine helps the coupe to sprint from 0-100 km/h in 8.4 seconds while the top speed is of 228 km/h.The average fuel consumption is of 9.2 litres in the case of the 3.2 FSI engine and 7.1 litres at the 1.8 engine.
Press release:
Audi continues to extend its A5 model line, which has enjoyed a successful start: as of now, the sporty coupé is available with two new engine versions. The 3.2 FSI quattro allied with the six-speed manual gearbox is an especially dynamic source of power, while the 1.8 TFSI, also with manual shift, offers an extremely efficient alternative.
The 3.2 FSI, with its power output of 195 kW (265 bhp), is the most powerful engine in the A5 model line. The Audi engineers concentrated all of their expertise in this power unit, combining FSI petrol direct injection with the innovative Audi valvelift system for variable valve lift control and various measures for reducing internal friction. All this work has resulted in supreme refinement and impressive pulling power, with 330 Nm of torque available all the way from 3,000 to 5,000 rpm.
The 3.2 FSI gives the A5 performance figures worthy of a sports car. With this engine, the grand tourer sprints from a standstill to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds, and its top speed is electronically governed at 250 km/h. The powerful coupé has an average fuel consumption of just 9.2 litres. The price of the Audi A5 3.2 quattro with manual gearbox is 44,200 euros.
Extremely high efficiency is the particular strength of the 1.8 TFSI. This four-cylinder engine, which is a new addition to the coupé model line, combines the benefits of the FSI principle with the advantages of turbocharging. These technologies together generate a power output of 125 kW (170 bhp). The peak torque of 250 Nm is available from as low as 1,500 rpm. The 1.8-litre engine comes with a manual six-speed gearbox and front-wheel drive.
With the powerful four-cylinder unit, the Audi A5 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 228 km/h. It sets excellent standards in terms of fuel consumption, limiting itself to an average of just 7.1 litres per 100 km. The A5 1.8 TFSI is available for 32,750 euros.
Source: http://4wheelsblog.com/released/audi-a5-receives-two-new-engines
Audi to launch Q7 Hybrid in 2008
The Audi Q7 was the last SUV model to launch from the platform shared with the Volkswagen Touareg and Porsche Cayenne but it looks like it will be the first to launch a hybrid version. Automotive News is reporting that Audi will start production of the hybrid Q7 in late 2008, several months after introducing the new diesel models in the US market.
The hybrid system is being developed in conjunction with VW and Porsche. They have made the system modular so that it can be adapted to other vehicles in the product lineup. Porsche has already indicated that they will use the system on the upcoming Panamera sedan in addition to the Cayenne.
In the Q7 it will be paired up with a 3.6L V-6 and should yield about 23mpg. The electric part of the drivetrain will be able to drive the vehicle at up to 31 mph and the engine can be shut off at speeds up to 75 mph when coasting.
Source: http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/09/11/audi-to-launch-q7-hybrid-in-2008/
Audi A5 receives two new engines
Audi, the German automaker continues to extend its A5 line. The recently launched A5 coupe receives now two new engines: a 3.2 FSI quattro and a 1.8 TFSI.
The 3.2 FSI engine helps the A5 to sprints from 0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds while the top speed is electronically limited at 250 km/h. The 1.8 TFSI engine helps the coupe to sprint from 0-100 km/h in 8.4 seconds while the top speed is of 228 km/h.The average fuel consumption is of 9.2 litres in the case of the 3.2 FSI engine and 7.1 litres at the 1.8 engine.
Press release:
Audi continues to extend its A5 model line, which has enjoyed a successful start: as of now, the sporty coupé is available with two new engine versions. The 3.2 FSI quattro allied with the six-speed manual gearbox is an especially dynamic source of power, while the 1.8 TFSI, also with manual shift, offers an extremely efficient alternative.
The 3.2 FSI, with its power output of 195 kW (265 bhp), is the most powerful engine in the A5 model line. The Audi engineers concentrated all of their expertise in this power unit, combining FSI petrol direct injection with the innovative Audi valvelift system for variable valve lift control and various measures for reducing internal friction. All this work has resulted in supreme refinement and impressive pulling power, with 330 Nm of torque available all the way from 3,000 to 5,000 rpm.
The 3.2 FSI gives the A5 performance figures worthy of a sports car. With this engine, the grand tourer sprints from a standstill to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds, and its top speed is electronically governed at 250 km/h. The powerful coupé has an average fuel consumption of just 9.2 litres. The price of the Audi A5 3.2 quattro with manual gearbox is 44,200 euros.
Extremely high efficiency is the particular strength of the 1.8 TFSI. This four-cylinder engine, which is a new addition to the coupé model line, combines the benefits of the FSI principle with the advantages of turbocharging. These technologies together generate a power output of 125 kW (170 bhp). The peak torque of 250 Nm is available from as low as 1,500 rpm. The 1.8-litre engine comes with a manual six-speed gearbox and front-wheel drive.
With the powerful four-cylinder unit, the Audi A5 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 228 km/h. It sets excellent standards in terms of fuel consumption, limiting itself to an average of just 7.1 litres per 100 km. The A5 1.8 TFSI is available for 32,750 euros.
Source: http://4wheelsblog.com/released/audi-a5-receives-two-new-engines
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
2008 Audi R8 on tour around Canada
Audi has something good going on with the R8 supercar and they know it. The problem is, there isn't enough of them to go around. In order to make sure as many enthusiasts as possible get to lay eyes on the new machine, Audi is sending 15 journalists on a cross Canada jaunt from Cape Spear, all the way to the west, finishing up in Victoria, BC.
Friend of The Garage, Russ Bond from Painkillerz is lucky enough to be along for the section from Barrie, Ontario to Thunder Bay, Ontario. In fact, Russ is having a month filled with R8 goodness, having visited the press launch for the car last week and will spend next week with the press car. While Russ is on the road with the Audi R8 Trans-Canada Performance Tour, he'll be updating Painkillerz readers with daily photos and stories.
Source: http://thegarageblog.com/garage/2008-audi-r8-on-tour-around-canada/
Preview: 2010 Audi A1 hatch and cabrio
The minicar segment is about to explode, with new models planned from most of the major carmakers including, for the first time, premium labels such as Audi, which is planning to launch the new A1 hatch in 2009. A concept version of the car will be displayed at next month's Tokyo Motor Show complete with a hybrid drivetrain. These new renderings give us an accurate look at what to expect, revealing designers are going with conventional hatchback styling and Audi's familiar oversized grille.
The A1 won't be a niche model. Audi management is hoping to sell more than 100,000 units per year and will likely add a 'shooting brake' mini-estate and cabrio to its lineup. Audi is also rumored to be working on a mini SUV labeled the Q1, which you can see a preview of by clicking here. In addition to the mild hybrid version, Audi will also build cars equipped with more conventional TSI and FSI petrol engines as well as its frugal TDI diesels displacing 1.4 and 1.6L.
The car will be built on a new platform that will also spawn the next-gen VW Polo as well as allow engineers to add quattro AWD for a low-volume performance model. The new platform also means engineers may add a new low cost dual-clutch transmission with seven gears in total. Unlike the production version of the VW up! concept, the Audi A1 won't be cheap and is expected to have a price tag of around €20,000. By contrast, VW's minicar is expected to cost close to €8,000.
Source: http://www.motorauthority.com/news/hatchbacks/preview-2010-audi-a1-hatch-and-cabrio/
600 New Employees for Audi
Audi is hiring young graduates in an effort to ensure the strong future of the brand. This year, the automaker is looking for 600 new employees.
German automaker Audi is making a bid to become the king of the mountain. Six hundred academics is the target for Audi. The young talents are there to unveil the new Audi RS6 - the company's most powerful production vehicle. Dr, Werner Widuckel, a Board Member for Human Resources at Audi AG, declared that the increase in their offering will mean more jobs in the future. Only motivated and dedicated employees will ensure company success and innovative power in the future," he said.
Most in demand are graduates in electrical engineering, mechatronics, mechanical engineering and automotive technology. Not only academics are attracted to Audi as an employer: 682 young people started their apprenticeships last week in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm. Audi provides training in 20 different vocations.
"To a great extent, graduates want to identify with the products of their preferred employer. Factors such as market success and innovative power, interesting work and individual opportunities for development play an important role when choosing an employer," added Dr. Widuckel.
Last year, the automaker recruited 450 academics. The increase in the number of employees they are hiring shows the company responding to the need for engineers. The automaker is focusing on the employment of young engineers to develop highly-efficient diesel engines as well as alternative powertrains.
Source: http://theautorider.blogspot.com/2007/09/600-new-employees-for-audi.html
German automaker Audi is making a bid to become the king of the mountain. Six hundred academics is the target for Audi. The young talents are there to unveil the new Audi RS6 - the company's most powerful production vehicle. Dr, Werner Widuckel, a Board Member for Human Resources at Audi AG, declared that the increase in their offering will mean more jobs in the future. Only motivated and dedicated employees will ensure company success and innovative power in the future," he said.
Most in demand are graduates in electrical engineering, mechatronics, mechanical engineering and automotive technology. Not only academics are attracted to Audi as an employer: 682 young people started their apprenticeships last week in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm. Audi provides training in 20 different vocations.
"To a great extent, graduates want to identify with the products of their preferred employer. Factors such as market success and innovative power, interesting work and individual opportunities for development play an important role when choosing an employer," added Dr. Widuckel.
Last year, the automaker recruited 450 academics. The increase in the number of employees they are hiring shows the company responding to the need for engineers. The automaker is focusing on the employment of young engineers to develop highly-efficient diesel engines as well as alternative powertrains.
Source: http://theautorider.blogspot.com/2007/09/600-new-employees-for-audi.html
Audi R8 downed in Moscow
The Audi R8 isn't even on sale yet in most parts of the globe, but already we've heard of cars going up in flames in Germany and now we have a story about one that's gone amok in downtown Moscow. From the images, it appears the driver lost of control of the car in the wet weather, skidded across onto the median strip and then crashed into a small tree before spinning to a stop. The car must have been traveling at some speed because the crash managed to rip out the car's headlight out, projecting it several meters away onto a small patch of grass.
Every time we see a crashed exotic, we wonder when more car companies will start offering some kind of advanced driver training course as part of the car's purchase. Then again, there's no way to prevent the stupidity that makes someone want to speed in a built-up urban area in the wet. We hope the driver was at least smart enough to have insurance because it appears this R8 will have one very hefty repair bill.
Source: http://news.euro-truck.biz/autoblog/audi-r8-downed-in-moscow/
Abt Sportsline releases the Audi AS6 3.0L TDI
We're used to seeing plenty of highly modified petrol cars but every now and then a tuned oil-burner crops up. This time it's from the Bavarian-based Abt Sportsline, which has taken the wraps off its new AS6 3.0L TDI. The new car boasts a rare 100hp (75kW) per liter output, with a total 300hp (225kW) churned out by its 3.0L TDI mill. The maximum torque, which arrives at 4000rpm, is a staggering 600Nm.
The increases come from a series of upgrades including new engine management software and more boost from a custom Abt compressor. With the new performance numbers, the AS6 completes the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 249km/h.
Ensuring all that torque reaches the ground, engineers added a set of 20in wheels measuring 9in across. They also upgraded the brakes, added an adjustable suspension set-up and a complete bodykit. The latter consists of a set of side skirts, front spoiler and pumped fenders.
Source: http://www.motorauthority.com/cars/audi/abt-sportsline-releases-the-audi-as6-30l-tdi/
2008 Audi R8 on tour around Canada
Audi has something good going on with the R8 supercar and they know it. The problem is, there isn't enough of them to go around. In order to make sure as many enthusiasts as possible get to lay eyes on the new machine, Audi is sending 15 journalists on a cross Canada jaunt from Cape Spear, all the way to the west, finishing up in Victoria, BC.
Friend of The Garage, Russ Bond from Painkillerz is lucky enough to be along for the section from Barrie, Ontario to Thunder Bay, Ontario. In fact, Russ is having a month filled with R8 goodness, having visited the press launch for the car last week and will spend next week with the press car. While Russ is on the road with the Audi R8 Trans-Canada Performance Tour, he'll be updating Painkillerz readers with daily photos and stories.
Source: http://thegarageblog.com/garage/2008-audi-r8-on-tour-around-canada/
Preview: 2010 Audi A1 hatch and cabrio
The minicar segment is about to explode, with new models planned from most of the major carmakers including, for the first time, premium labels such as Audi, which is planning to launch the new A1 hatch in 2009. A concept version of the car will be displayed at next month's Tokyo Motor Show complete with a hybrid drivetrain. These new renderings give us an accurate look at what to expect, revealing designers are going with conventional hatchback styling and Audi's familiar oversized grille.
The A1 won't be a niche model. Audi management is hoping to sell more than 100,000 units per year and will likely add a 'shooting brake' mini-estate and cabrio to its lineup. Audi is also rumored to be working on a mini SUV labeled the Q1, which you can see a preview of by clicking here. In addition to the mild hybrid version, Audi will also build cars equipped with more conventional TSI and FSI petrol engines as well as its frugal TDI diesels displacing 1.4 and 1.6L.
The car will be built on a new platform that will also spawn the next-gen VW Polo as well as allow engineers to add quattro AWD for a low-volume performance model. The new platform also means engineers may add a new low cost dual-clutch transmission with seven gears in total. Unlike the production version of the VW up! concept, the Audi A1 won't be cheap and is expected to have a price tag of around €20,000. By contrast, VW's minicar is expected to cost close to €8,000.
Source: http://www.motorauthority.com/news/hatchbacks/preview-2010-audi-a1-hatch-and-cabrio/
600 New Employees for Audi
Audi is hiring young graduates in an effort to ensure the strong future of the brand. This year, the automaker is looking for 600 new employees.
German automaker Audi is making a bid to become the king of the mountain. Six hundred academics is the target for Audi. The young talents are there to unveil the new Audi RS6 - the company's most powerful production vehicle. Dr, Werner Widuckel, a Board Member for Human Resources at Audi AG, declared that the increase in their offering will mean more jobs in the future. Only motivated and dedicated employees will ensure company success and innovative power in the future," he said.
Most in demand are graduates in electrical engineering, mechatronics, mechanical engineering and automotive technology. Not only academics are attracted to Audi as an employer: 682 young people started their apprenticeships last week in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm. Audi provides training in 20 different vocations.
"To a great extent, graduates want to identify with the products of their preferred employer. Factors such as market success and innovative power, interesting work and individual opportunities for development play an important role when choosing an employer," added Dr. Widuckel.
Last year, the automaker recruited 450 academics. The increase in the number of employees they are hiring shows the company responding to the need for engineers. The automaker is focusing on the employment of young engineers to develop highly-efficient diesel engines as well as alternative powertrains.
Source: http://theautorider.blogspot.com/2007/09/600-new-employees-for-audi.html
German automaker Audi is making a bid to become the king of the mountain. Six hundred academics is the target for Audi. The young talents are there to unveil the new Audi RS6 - the company's most powerful production vehicle. Dr, Werner Widuckel, a Board Member for Human Resources at Audi AG, declared that the increase in their offering will mean more jobs in the future. Only motivated and dedicated employees will ensure company success and innovative power in the future," he said.
Most in demand are graduates in electrical engineering, mechatronics, mechanical engineering and automotive technology. Not only academics are attracted to Audi as an employer: 682 young people started their apprenticeships last week in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm. Audi provides training in 20 different vocations.
"To a great extent, graduates want to identify with the products of their preferred employer. Factors such as market success and innovative power, interesting work and individual opportunities for development play an important role when choosing an employer," added Dr. Widuckel.
Last year, the automaker recruited 450 academics. The increase in the number of employees they are hiring shows the company responding to the need for engineers. The automaker is focusing on the employment of young engineers to develop highly-efficient diesel engines as well as alternative powertrains.
Source: http://theautorider.blogspot.com/2007/09/600-new-employees-for-audi.html
Audi R8 downed in Moscow
The Audi R8 isn't even on sale yet in most parts of the globe, but already we've heard of cars going up in flames in Germany and now we have a story about one that's gone amok in downtown Moscow. From the images, it appears the driver lost of control of the car in the wet weather, skidded across onto the median strip and then crashed into a small tree before spinning to a stop. The car must have been traveling at some speed because the crash managed to rip out the car's headlight out, projecting it several meters away onto a small patch of grass.
Every time we see a crashed exotic, we wonder when more car companies will start offering some kind of advanced driver training course as part of the car's purchase. Then again, there's no way to prevent the stupidity that makes someone want to speed in a built-up urban area in the wet. We hope the driver was at least smart enough to have insurance because it appears this R8 will have one very hefty repair bill.
Source: http://news.euro-truck.biz/autoblog/audi-r8-downed-in-moscow/
Abt Sportsline releases the Audi AS6 3.0L TDI
We're used to seeing plenty of highly modified petrol cars but every now and then a tuned oil-burner crops up. This time it's from the Bavarian-based Abt Sportsline, which has taken the wraps off its new AS6 3.0L TDI. The new car boasts a rare 100hp (75kW) per liter output, with a total 300hp (225kW) churned out by its 3.0L TDI mill. The maximum torque, which arrives at 4000rpm, is a staggering 600Nm.
The increases come from a series of upgrades including new engine management software and more boost from a custom Abt compressor. With the new performance numbers, the AS6 completes the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 249km/h.
Ensuring all that torque reaches the ground, engineers added a set of 20in wheels measuring 9in across. They also upgraded the brakes, added an adjustable suspension set-up and a complete bodykit. The latter consists of a set of side skirts, front spoiler and pumped fenders.
Source: http://www.motorauthority.com/cars/audi/abt-sportsline-releases-the-audi-as6-30l-tdi/
Monday, September 17, 2007
Preview: 2009 Audi S7
Audi is preparing a new four-door coupe positioned between its A8 limo and A6 models and, as with any new Audi, there's invariably a performance "S" model. Aimed at the segment starter, Mercedes' svelte CLS saloon, the new A7 should arrive on the market in early 2009 and will be joined by a convertible version one year later.
Standard models will get the usual assortment of FSI and TDI six and eight cylinder engines but a new top of the line S7 is tipped to get the naturally aspirated 5.2L V10 engine from the S6. The S7 will also benefit from Audi quattro and the carmaker's new sport differential torque distribution set-up.
Depending on the success of the car, there could even be a new super-saloon in the form of a RS7 powered by the new 580hp twin-turbo engine that debuted in the new RS6.
These new renderings of the car reveal designers won't be making any drastic changes to Audi's current design language, with the new S7 taking many cues from the S5 and S4 models. One of the new themes set for Audi's performance models is the clean front end, devoid of any fog lights, and it appears this will carry for the future S7 as well.
Source: http://www.motorauthority.com/cars/audi/preview-2009-audi-s7/
Thousands of Audi owners at Castle Combe Circuit
Organised by Audi Driver magazine, this major one-day event for Audi owners includes a wide range of activities. As well as track sessions where enthusiasts can take their own cars out on the circuit, many aftermarket tuning companies bring along their race and demo cars to show off and give passenger rides.
The event also sees a driving test / slalom in the main paddock area, as well as a Concours d'Elegance for show cars both classic and custom, displays by all the major Audi owners clubs, trade stands, autojumble, car sales area, technical seminar, club parade laps and it finishes at 4.45 pm with a grand parade around the circuit.
A popular feature is that, at lunchtime, owners who've come along with their children can take part in a special low-speed parade lap around the circuit, free of charge.
Now in its fifth year, Audi Driver International is regularly attended by several thousand enthusiasts and spectators and its reputation is growing steadily.
Spectators are more than welcome open to the public from 8.30 am, it only costs £6 on the gate and you'll be entered into a free draw to win a passenger ride around the circuit in one of the top tuners' cars.
For further information, there is a dedicated website at www.audidriverinternational.co.uk
Defined tags for this entry: Audi, classic cars
Source: http://www.classicrallies.com/blog/index.php?/archives/777-Thousands-of-Audi-owners-at-Castle-Combe-Circuit.html
Exotic Audi R8 outshines stars
Until I spent a long weekend with the Audi R8, I didn't realize just how many camera phones there were in the city of Toronto.
Having been cellphone shopping only a few weeks before my R8 experience, I knew that camera phones were quite popular. But my, oh my, they're everywhere.
They're in your side-view mirror, hanging out of cars sitting in your blind spot on the Gardiner Expressway, trying to get some footage of you accelerating away.
They're staring at you through the back window of cars in front, panning back and forth to take in the full magnificence of the R8's LED driving-light arrangement and its big, low shield-shaped grille.
They're poking out from crowds at bus shelters, snapping a pic as you drive by. They're right in your face as you come back to the car in a parking lot, hoping to sneak away and avoid any lengthy conversation.
I've driven more expensive cars than the Audi R8. I have driven faster cars and cars that make more noise and cars that go around corners faster. But I have never driven anything that draws quite so much attention.
The Toronto International Film Festival opened the same day I picked up the R8. On my drive home from work through the entertainment district, onlookers peered into the gunslit-shaped side windows, hoping to catch a glimpse of celebrity and instead got an eyeful of fat Asian auto journalist – not old enough or thin enough to be Chow Yun-Fat and not in good enough shape to be Jackie Chan.
One guy, I kid you not, even asked for my autograph, even though he didn't know who I was. The car was enough, he said; he'd glimpsed it parallel-parked on Richmond and had circled the block to take a closer look. Is this what celebrity feels like?
Such adulation from the masses comes at a price, of course, but perhaps not as high a price as you might expect.
Oh sure, $139,000 to start (my tester listed at just over $150,000) is a big chunk of change in anybody's book. But curbside speculators always guessed high on the price scale.
Perhaps it's the R8's proportions, which are long, low, wide and eerily reminiscent of the Lamborghini Gallardo with which it shares a little bit of DNA.
Perhaps it was the detailing: delicate double-spoke alloys that barely wrapped around huge brake calipers bearing R8 logos, rear lights that looked like neon-outlined TV screens, that contrasting panel of silver on the side of my gray test car.
Perhaps it's the specifications: 420 horses from its dry-sump, direct-injection V8, six speeds, four-wheel drive, only two seats.
Perhaps it's the technology: magnetic ride-control suspension, GPS navigation, optional F1-style paddle shifters.
The darn thing looks high-tech, too, a combination of its tall windshield, jeweled lights, the vents cut into those side panels and the mesh-inset rear wing that automatically rises at 110 km/h. "One-forty?" people gawped. "It looks like should be two-fifty!"
One-forty it is, though, making Audi's most direct target the Porsche 911 Carrera 4S, which stickers at about $10,000 less than the R8 but is about the same when equipment is evenly matched.
Curious about the reaction the R8 would get, I took it to an informal gathering of Porsche and Corvette enthusiasts that meets every Saturday in the parking lot of a suburban coffee shop. It was, not surprisingly, the star of the show, swarmed by interested would-be owners who loved its design, its interior and the sound its V8 made.
The only disappointment, really, seemed to come from the fact that all of next year's allocation of 100 cars is already sold out, making R8 ownership an unlikely proposition even for people who can afford it. It's all part of Audi's plan to keep the car exclusive enough to stay special.
In terms of the way the R8 compares behind the wheel, the Porsche has its advantages and it has its disadvantages.
The main difference is that the 911 feels smaller once you're on the move. Its narrower body, more upright seating position and larger glass area make it easier to thread through traffic and along winding roads with precision.
The Audi, despite being incredibly nimble and light on its feet, always feels like a big car: its width makes squeezing into tight parking spots a chore, even when using the reversing camera, and you always second-guess yourself about whether you can thread through any given piece of pavement.
While their power-to-weight ratios and acceleration times are close enough to be almost equal, the Audi can feel faster and more powerful in everyday situations, thanks to the fat spread of torque from its V8.
While the R8 redlines at over 8000 r.p.m., it delivers plenty of low-end punch even at 2000; the Porsche needs to be revved harder and often requires a downshift when the Audi doesn't.
Braking performance is about equal; the C4S has six-pot calipers up front while the Audi has eight, but both drag the cars to a drama-free stop in a minimum distance. Likewise, both all-wheel-drive systems are strongly rear-biased, shuttling power up front when needed without inducing understeer in corners.
One area where the 911 has an advantage is steering feel. While both cars corner flat and true – and both, interestingly enough, also bob their noses a little bit in fast curves – the Audi's steering can feel heavy and a little bit numb while the 911's three-spoke wheel dances under your fingertips.
Ultimately, this leads to a greater sense of confidence, even if the Porsche's rear-engine layout means it'd be trickier to drive at the limit than the smoother-transitioning mid-engined Audi.
On the other hand, the R8 is vastly more comfortable as a daily driver: even in the supposedly-stiff sport mode, it rides better than the 911 and, in comfort mode, is as composed as any sedan.
The R8's cabin feels much wider and, except for a dead pedal that was too close for my taste, the layout is near-perfect, with easy-to-decipher controls and displays right where you would expect them.
Even though a lot of the parts in the R8's interior come from other Audis – the steering wheel, door handles, climate control knobs and other bits come from the TT, for instance – it's hard to deny the sense of occasion you feel dropping into its low, low cabin.
The view out the windshield is spectacular. The cockpit sweeps around the driver, the gauges float in chromed triangular pods and the navigation screen swivels away at the touch of a button so you can load discs and memory cards.
Choose the manual transmission and you get an exposed shift gate like a vintage Ferrari's; even moving around a parking lot, you get a clack-clack sensation to remind you that you're driving something special.
There are other theatrical touches as well. When you unlock the R8 with the keyfob, not only is the interior lit up, but so is the glass-covered engine bay, cool blue xenon exposing the V8 for the world to see.
Flick on the headlights and you discover subtle little R8 logos in the headlamp lenses; the driving lights are a row of LEDs that curve under the main beams, sort of an automotive form of mascara.
Inside, the gauges flicker on and all the needles do a full sweep before settling into their proper positions; the navigation system even has a cool R8-branded startup screen.
Under way, you're treated to one of the world's greatest engine notes, a magnificent high-tech rumble from the quad pipes; think Pavarotti singing thrash metal.
Properly executed downshifts are greeted with a sharp bark from the exhaust and you hear the odd screech of tire before the lenient stability control reins in the fun in tight corners.
It is, ultimately, the sense of theatre, combined with genuine everyday ability, that makes the R8 such an interesting proposition.
It's as practical as a 911 – save for the Porsche's tiny rear seats – but looks so much more exotic.
It's as comfortable as a luxury sedan but exudes so much more drama, whether you're sitting still in traffic or roaring along the left lane of the expressway.
It's a car with the visual presence of an Italian supercar, with a generously sized trunk, decent behind-the-seats storage and unflappable build quality.
It is beautiful to behold and a delight to drive, one of the very best performance cars you can (more or less) buy. And, at least for now, definitely the coolest.
Source: http://www.wheels.ca/article/31484
Audi 2007 Melges 24 US National Champion: Record setting fleet set
In just over a week, some sixty Melges 24 skippers and crews will hit the waters of Lake St. Clair to decide who will be crowned the Audi 2007 Melges 24 U.S. National Champion. With 56 entries received to date, and up to 8 more expected, this will be the largest U.S. Nationals in the 14 year history of the class – confirming the health of this ultra-competitive, high-octane One Design class.
U.S. Melges 24 Class President Scott Gregory and his Georgia-based Team Satisfaction were initially unable to make it to Bayview Yacht Club for the championship, but when the entry list hit 40 boats, they cleared their schedules. "We just couldn't miss an event like this up in Detroit," Scott said. "Those guys really get it – there are so many good sailors in the Detroit fleet, and they are the most enthusiastic group in the country. They sail hard, they party hard, and they're always helping others improve. We can't wait to get out there and mix it up."
Gregory and his team will have plenty of company. Melges 24 events consistently draw some of the world's best sailors, and this one is no exception. World Champion Dave Ullman, helming for Scott Holmgren on Rosebud, is clearly the favorite – but his challengers include some of the best in the business. Ullman's biggest obstacle is likely to be current North American Champion Brian Porter and his Full Throttle team. Porter enlisted the help of two close friends from Lake Geneva to see if he can dethrone the legendary Ullman; Melges Performance Sailboats President Harry Melges III and VP Andy Burdick – both World Champs in the Melges 24. Full Throttle was only seconds away from becoming the World Champion in Santa Cruz this past May when, on the final leg of the final race, a brutal gust of wind knocked her on her side, mast in the water. Ullman's crew immediately dropped their spinnaker, giving them the control they needed to pass the disabled Porter and win the championship.
Star studded fleet includes World, National, North American champions
Other top sailors contending for the title of U.S. Champion include dozens of past Melges 24 champions at all levels. Two-time World Champion Vince Brun will be on the course after a hiatus from the class, and other competitors of note include Bill Hardesty, John Pollard, Simon Strauss, Argyle Campbell, Mark Ivey, Michael Miller, Erik Shampain, and Bora Gulari. Every one of these racers has the proven ability of a champion, as they've shown in everything from the Olympic 470 to the Transpac52.
Typical September winds on the lake are gusty and shifty, and local knowledge could prove to be the key to a solid result. Local stars include up-and-coming match racer Nate Hollerbach, who heads off to Bermuda in a few weeks for one of the premier match racing events in the world – the Gold Cup. Hollerbach is honing his skills on the helm of Zig Zag, although he'll have some very motivated opponents on the water: Squaring up against Nate are his father, Marc and brother, Adam aboard Fu.
Penalty Box Productions to produce championship DVD
Event Chairman Paul Hulsey was pleased to announce yesterday that he had retained high-performance race filmmaker Peter Crawford's Penalty Box Productions to film the event. "With this many competitors, and the likelihood of solid breeze, it would be horrible to miss out on high quality video coverage," Hulsey said. Crawford, a lifelong scow and iceboat sailor, has an eye for fast racing machines, as he proved with amazing footage from the windy 2007 Worlds in Santa Cruz. Each team will receive a short DVD of the event, and interested parties can pre-order a full-length DVD that includes both the Worlds and National Championship footage.
Audi 2007 Melges 24 U.S. National Championship
The Audi 2007 Melges 24 U.S. National Championship is hosted by Bayview Yacht Club, with the support of Sponsor/Partners Audi of America, Inc., the Detroit-Area Audi Metro Dealers, Barefoot Wines, Yachtscoring.com, Latis Yachting Solutions, the Detroit Medical Center's Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan, Rock City Marine, Tim Wilkes Photography, and Penalty Box Productions.
The Melges 24 is the most unique one-design sportboat in the world, and one of the fastest-growing one-design race classes in the world. More information on the U.S. Melges 24 Class is available at www.usmelges24.com
Source: http://bymnews.com/news/newsDetails.php?id=15321
Frankfurt Motor Show: Audi A4 e Concept unveiled
With the new Audi A4 e Concept, the German automaker plans to show how its new Modular Efficiency program is. The new concept uses just 4.9 litres per 100 km. Also the Co2 emissons is just 129 g/km, that means less than the limit that will be introduced in 2012!
The 2.0 TDI in the new Audi A4 presents itself in an essentially enhanced form. A common rail injection system supersedes the unit injection pumps used to date, its piezo injectors supplying fuel with a pressure of up to 1,800 bar, allowing extremely fine atomisation in the combustion chambers. This improves fuel combustion and smooth running.
Press release:
With the new 2.0 TDI e Concept, Audi is showing just how effective its new Modular Efficiency program is. The sporty middle class saloon undercuts the consumption limit of five litres per 100 km. The A4 2.0 TDI e Concept needs just 4.9 litres for 100 km on the EU cycle. This means CO2 emissions of just 129 g/km – less than the limit that the European Union aims to introduce for vehicle fleets from 2012. With an output of 105 kW / 143 bhp and a peak torque of 320 Nm, the A4 2.0 TDI e Concept is a powerful saloon – for Audi, a dynamic character always goes hand in hand with low consumption.
In this vehicle, Audi has realised a whole package of innovative engineering solutions. Some of these are already in series production on the new Audi A4. Others, such as the start/stop system or the energy recuperation system, will be introduced in the near future.
TDI marries efficiency with dynamism
The 2.0 TDI in the new Audi A4 presents itself in an essentially enhanced form. A common rail injection system supersedes the unit injection pumps used to date, its piezo injectors supplying fuel with a pressure of up to 1,800 bar, allowing extremely fine atomisation in the combustion chambers. This improves fuel combustion and smooth running.
The refined engine develops a powerful 105 kW / 143 bhp of output. Even in the speed range between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm it puts a bullish 320 Nm of torque onto the crankshaft – this mighty pulling power at low revs is a one of the great strengths of the TDI principle. Modified piston geometry improves the thermodynamics in the combustion chambers. Other measures to reduce internal friction and for temperature management further increase fuel efficiency.
On the A4 e Concept, the 2.0 TDI engine is supplemented by the ultra low emission system. That means that this engine not only works highly efficiently, but it is also exceptionally clear and absolutely future-proof: Even today, it undercuts the strictest European emissions levels, which are not expected to come into force until 2014. The ultra low emission system, which makes the TDI the world's cleanest diesel, will go into series production in 2008 as an option on the new Audi A4 3.0 TDI.
Low-friction gearbox
The TDI's power is transmitted onto a newly developed six-speed manual gearbox that is characterised by greatly reduced internal friction. It has been specially tailored for the high-torque of the TDI engine – its transmission ratios are slightly longer in third to sixth gears. Like all Audi gearboxes, its gear changes are playfully light and extremely precise. The gear change indicator in the driver information system encourages an economical driving style. It indicates which gear is selected and if another gear is judged to be better while driving steadily, it will show this as a recommendation.
An especially fast and smooth start
Another important contribution is made by the start/stop system. It avoids the engine running inefficiently when the vehicle is stationary. This is important because much of our day-to-day driving is made up of trips that are shorter than ten kilometres, and these are interrupted by numerous stops at traffic lights.
As soon as the A4 2.0 TDI e Concept comes to a standstill, the gear lever is moved to neutral and the driver takes his foot off the clutch, the TDI is automatically switched off. The engine is restarted when the driver depresses the clutch. The TDI runs up while he is engaging the gear. It has reached idling speed by the time he releases the pedal. A specially developed starter motor turns the engine in little more than two tenths of a second – 60 percent faster than a conventional part, and yet especially comfortable acoustically.
Microhybrid gathers energy when coasting and braking
The recuperation system on board the A4 2.0 TDI e Concept converts kinetic energy into useful electrical energy as the vehicle decelerates. An innovative gel battery is used as the power source for the vehicle electrical system. This is extremely robust even at high loads and when it is heavily discharged, allowing it to achieve a particularly long service life.
When the A4 2.0 TDI e Concept is coasting or braking, the secondary voltage from the D/C converter is run up. The alternator is now able to convert the kinetic energy into electrical energy that is temporarily stored in the gel battery. When the saloon subsequently accelerates again, the battery feeds the energy back, relieving the load on the alternator.
The power steering has also been thoroughly modified – its effectiveness has been improved by around 50 percent because it is now fed hydraulic energy by a demand-controlled vane-cell pump. In contrast to conventional power steering pumps, which constantly recirculate large volumes, it only pumps as much oil as actually needed at that very moment.
On the automatic air conditioning system, Audi uses an innovative, thermostatically controlled refrigerant circuit with an internal heat exchanger. Along with intensive precision work on other components, has greatly improved the efficiency of the system – the new automatic air conditioning system requires 20 percent less fuel that its predecessor model did.
Sporty performance yet highly efficient
The A4 2.0 TDI e Concept glides smoothly and effortlessly through the wind. Its body is fundamentally extremely aerodynamic. Its boot lid has been given a slight additional separation edge. Specially designed alloy wheels improve the airflow across the wheels and wheel arches, while a sporty tuning has lowered the body by 20 millimetres. This modification reduces the frontal area, improving air resistance.
For Audi, efficiency means exactly the same as dynamics. For example, the tyres are configured for light running, but still have a sporty performance – they have the wide, visually attractive 225/50 R17 format. Yet the most impressive evidence of the potential of the A4 2.0 TDI e Concept is found in its performance figures. The middle class saloon sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 9.3 seconds. Its top speed is 215 km/h. A spurt from 80 to 120 km/h in 5th gear needs just 8.7 seconds.
Source: http://4wheelsblog.com/prototypes/frankfurt-motor-show-audi-a4-e-concept-unveiled
Preview: 2009 Audi S7
Audi is preparing a new four-door coupe positioned between its A8 limo and A6 models and, as with any new Audi, there's invariably a performance "S" model. Aimed at the segment starter, Mercedes' svelte CLS saloon, the new A7 should arrive on the market in early 2009 and will be joined by a convertible version one year later.
Standard models will get the usual assortment of FSI and TDI six and eight cylinder engines but a new top of the line S7 is tipped to get the naturally aspirated 5.2L V10 engine from the S6. The S7 will also benefit from Audi quattro and the carmaker's new sport differential torque distribution set-up.
Depending on the success of the car, there could even be a new super-saloon in the form of a RS7 powered by the new 580hp twin-turbo engine that debuted in the new RS6.
These new renderings of the car reveal designers won't be making any drastic changes to Audi's current design language, with the new S7 taking many cues from the S5 and S4 models. One of the new themes set for Audi's performance models is the clean front end, devoid of any fog lights, and it appears this will carry for the future S7 as well.
Source: http://www.motorauthority.com/cars/audi/preview-2009-audi-s7/
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