Audi A8 MMI® Touch Control System

Posted on 05 April 2011 by

Audi A8 MMI Touch

Just as the Audi A8 has dramatically progressed, so has the intuitive MMI® control system that lets you control and manage all vehicle functions, including your infotainment preferences. The groundbreaking MMI® touch is a new level of customized convenience. Audi engineers developed this latest version of MMI with hard and soft keys, dedicated buttons for commonly used controls and a revolutionary touchpad that interprets hand-written inputs. The MMI touch system can be used with ease. Just like drawing in the sand, your index finger allows you to enter navigation destinations and telephone numbers by simply “writing” with your finger on the touchpad. It allows you easier access to radio presets, map navigation, destinations and directories for a more personalized driving experience.

With its distinctive 42,000 square foot dealership–the largest in the Audi USA dealer portfolio–Boardwalk Audi is committed to interlacing Audi’s unparalleled engineering prowess with exceptional service performance.  As a member of Boardwalk Auto Group we cultivate a focus on top-flight performance. It’s the driving force behind every nameplate we represent, every car we maintain, and every customer we have the privilege to serve. Performance. It’s what we do.

Audi sets U.S. prices for all-new 2012 Audi A7

Posted on 05 April 2011 by

  • U.S. pricing for all-new Audi A7 starts at $59,250
  • Iconic design and industry first innovative technology combine to deliver emotion, prestige and functionality
  • All models feature supercharged 3.0L TFSI® V6 engine producing 310 hp

Audi announced that pricing for the all-new 2012 Audi A7 will begin at $59,250 with the first of the elegantly designed models reaching U.S. showrooms later this month.

The 2012 Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for the all-new Audi A7 is as follows:

2012 Audi A7 pricing (excluding $875 destination charge, taxes, title, options, and dealer charges):

A7 3.0T quattro® Tiptronic®                         $59,250

The all-new Audi A7 is a design icon, with technology to match its emotional styling. The A7 combines prestige, sportiness and functionality into a five-door coupe with seating for four. Through its emotion-evoking exterior and interior design as well as industry-first technology, the Audi A7 is sure to continue to attract new customers to the Audi brand.

The interior of the Audi A7 is a bold expression of contemporary design that matches the exterior of the vehicle. With impeccable attention to detail and craftsmanship, the wraparound sky-liner dashboard envelops the driver and front passenger and is a testament to the Audi legacy of inspirational interiors, providing exceptional fit and finish, comfort and luxury.

2011 Audi A7 | Highlights

While the coupe design of the Audi A7 attracts the eye, the aluminum-hybrid lightweight construction, with aluminum body panels and a steel frame, provides excellent handling, safety and fuel economy. The 3.0L TFSI V6 supercharged engine generates 310 horsepower and is paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission yielding impressive fuel economy ratings (18 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, according to the U.S. EPA, for a combined fuel economy rating of 22 mpg) with quattro all-wheel drive standard.

The A7 delivers excellent performance characteristics with usable functionality. The integrated rear spoiler automatically deploys at higher speeds to achieve maximum down force and improved aerodynamics.

Continuing to take a leadership role in bringing progressive, innovative technologies to our customers, the Audi A7 is available with the latest MMI® technology that provides a user-friendly interface for navigation, audio, phone and vehicle customization functions. In addition, the MMI touch handwriting recognition system allows customers to enter destination or telephone information with the touch of a finger.

The MMI system also serves as the interface with the industry-first Audi Connect system, which brings a whole new level of real-time user-relevant information into the vehicle. With first-to-market voice-activated Google EarthTM, Google Local search, and, for passenger use, rolling Wi-Fi® hotspot functionality (first-to-market as Factory-installed option with integrated mobile broadband connectivity), the A7 enables new, progressive ways of interacting with the vehicle and its surroundings.

For more information regarding Audi Connect, please go to http://www.audiusanews.com/pressrelease/2286//what-audi-connect.

The A7 introduces an available Audi-first headup Display with a high-resolution, full-color display, as well as many innovative technologies which were recently introduced in the Audi A8 flagship, including available full LED headlights, Night vision assistant, Audi pre sense plus and the unmatched Bang & Olufsen® Advanced Audio System, which delivers 1,300 watts of audio bliss through 15 perfectly tuned speakers.

Design | highlights:
• Iconic 5-door coupe design utilizing aluminum hybrid lightweight construction.
• 4-seat configuration with folding rear seats
• Xenon plus headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights
• Unmistakable Audi Singleframe® grill design
• 7-inch Driver Information System
• 8-inch MMI screen with MMI touch technology
• Frameless side windows appropriate for coupe
• Ambient lighting plus using LED lighting technology

Engine/drivetrain | highlights:
• V6 3.0L TFSI supercharged engine delivering 310 hp and 325 lbs-ft of torque.
• 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission
• Legendary quattro all-wheel drive with 40:60 rear-bias torque split

Standard equipment | highlights:
• 18-inch wheels with all-season tires
• Xenon plus headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights
• Leather seating surfaces
• Power, heated front seats with driver lumbar support
• Automatic power tailgate
• Audi drive select
• SIRIUS® satellite radio
• Audi Music Interface
• Bluetooth® telephone and music player connection
• Homelink®
• Keyless go
• Power sunroof
• 3-zone automatic climate control
• Automatic headlights with light/rain sensor

Optional equipment | highlights:

Premium Plus includes:
• 19-inch 10-spoke wheels with all-season tires
• MMI navigation plus with MMI touch and Google Earth
• Audi Connect with 6 month complimentary data trial period
• Front and rear parking sensors and rearview camera
• 7-inch Driver Information System and 8” MMI screen
• HD Radio, CD changer and Jukebox

Prestige includes Premium Plus items and:
• S line® exterior (bumpers, grille)
• BOSE® surround sound system
• Advanced key (keyless entry)
• 4-zone climate control
• Ventilated front seats
• Adaptive headlights and cornering lights
• Power adjustable steering column
• Ambient lighting plus (LED interior lights)

Innovation Package:
• Full LED headlights
• Audi pre sense plus
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• Audi side assist
• Head Up Display
• Night vision assistant

Sport Packages:
• 19-inch or 20-inch wheels with performance tires
• Sport suspension
• 3-spoke sport steering wheel with shift paddles

Driver Assistance Package:
• Audi pre sense plus
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• Audi side assist

Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System (similar to A8 D4):
• 15 speakers including subwoofer and center speaker
• Acoustic lens emerging tweeters
• Speaker covers are polished aluminum
• 1300 watts of B&O® ICEpower®

ABOUT AUDI
Audi of America, Inc. and its U.S. dealers offer a full line of German-engineered luxury vehicles. AUDI AG is among the most successful luxury automotive brands globally. During 2010 Audi was the top performing luxury brand in Europe, and broke all-time company sales records in the U.S. Over the next few years, AUDI AG will invest nearly $16 billion on new products and technologies. Visit www.audiusa.com or www.audiusanews.com for more information regarding Audi vehicle and business issues.

Audi reports best-ever March U.S. sales and best first quarter in company history

Posted on 05 April 2011 by

  • March 2011 marked third-best month ever with sales of 9,818, easily eclipsing previous March record of 8,589 set in 2010
  • 2011 Audi A8 flagship sales help fuel 14.3% year-over-year jump in month
  • Certified Pre-Owned sales of 3,318 vehicles marks the second-best month for Audi CPO, second only to May 2008 with 3,364 vehicles sold

Audi today sustained its 2011 momentum with a series of record setting achievements. March U.S. sales of Audi cars and SUVs not only marked the third-straight monthly record for 2011, but also the best-ever March in company history and the best first quarter of all-time. Additionally, the March 2011 results rank as the third-best monthly sales overall for the brand in its U.S. history. The strong March sales represented a month-to-month sales increase of more than 25% over February 2011, and a 14.3% improvement from March 2010. The 2011 best first quarter in company history comes on the heels of Audi posting its best annual U.S. sales for 2010.

Overall, Audi sold 9,818 vehicles in March 2011 compared to the 8,589 vehicles sold in March 2010 to set the old record for the month. The strong sales results were buoyed by the continued extraordinary public response to the 2011 Audi A8 flagship model with a 788.9% increase in sales from a year earlier. March 2011 was the best month for Audi A8 sales in more than five years. Sales of the Audi A4 recorded more than a 20% month-to-month sales increase over February 2011 and climbed 12.1% compared to March 2010.

Audi models have already earned significant awards in the U.S., including the Edmunds.com Technology Breakthrough Award to the 2011 Audi A8, four category winners in the Strategic Vision 2010 Total Value Index and the EyesOn Design “Best Production Vehicle” awarded to the Audi A6, which is scheduled to arrive this Fall.

In March 2011, Audi recorded year-over-year sales increases exceeding 20% with five of its models: the Audi A8, Audi Q5, Audi Q7, Audi R8 and the Audi TT. Audi Q5 crossover and Audi Q7 full-size luxury crossover sales posted 22.5% and 36.6% increases over March 2010 sales, respectively. Moreover, due to improved availability and seasonality, the Audi R8 and Audi TT recorded a combined 56.9% year-over-year sales increase compared to March 2010. Despite limited availability for the Audi A5 in the month of March, the A5 posted a month-to-month sales gain of more than 20% compared to February 2011 sales. Moreover, the Audi S5 registered a 30% sales mix, compared to the 2010 average of 26%.

“Having ended 2010 on such a high note, it was important to ensure that we continue our momentum well into 2011,” said Audi of America President Johan de Nysschen. “As first quarter sales figures clearly reinforce the notion that consumers are eager to drive the superior lineup of Audi vehicles, we are optimistic that 2011 will be another banner year for us.”

Audi sales highlights – March 2011
• March 2011 ranks as the best-ever March sales in Audi of America history; also ranks as the third-best month ever in company history, behind December 2006 and December 2010.
• Best first quarter ever with 25,383 vehicles sold, topping the previous first quarter record of 2010 by 19.1%.
• Five models within Audi lineup post gains of over 20% YOY.
• Month-to-month Audi sales increase of more than 25% over February 2011, and 14.3% YOY increase.

Audi Q5 and Audi Q7 March sales and news notes
• Audi Q5 sales in March second only to A4; Q5 with less than 20 day supply of dealer inventory.
• Audi Q5 sales up 22.5% for March YOY.
• Audi Q7 sales up 36.6% for March YOY; Q7 with less than 15 day supply of dealer inventory.

Audi A3, A6, R8 and TT March sales and news notes
• Audi A3 sales increase by 200 units over February 2011.
• Audi A6 sales increase by 130 units over February 2011.
• R8 sales record 103.8% uptick over March 2010.
• TT sales up 40.8% YOY compared to March 2010.

Audi Certified Pre-Owned sales and news notes
• March 2011 CPO sales of 3,318 units represent 30.1% YOY surge from 2,551 vehicles a year earlier; increase in sales fueled by strong A4 sales mix.
• Second best March for Audi CPO of all-time, second only to May 2008 with 3,364 vehicles sold.
• Record-setting CPO markets in March: East up 30% year-to-date growth compared to 2010; South up 34% YTD growth compared to 2010; and West up 40% YTD growth compared to 2010.


ABOUT AUDI
Audi of America, Inc. and its U.S. dealers offer a full line of German-engineered luxury vehicles. AUDI AG is among the most successful luxury automotive brands globally. During 2010 Audi was the top performing luxury brand in Europe, and broke all-time company sales records in the U.S. Over the next few years, AUDI AG will invest nearly $16 billion on new products and technologies. Visit www.audiusa.com or www.audiusanews.com for more information regarding Audi vehicle and business issues.

AUDI US SNAPSHOT –YTD–
Model Line March ’11 Actual March ’10 Actual Yr/Yr % change March ’11 YTD Actual March ’10 YTD Actual Yr/Yr % change
A3 576 548 -5.1% 1,677 1,450 15.7%
A4 3,428 3,058 12.1% 8,681 8,481 2.4%
A5 1,388 1,675 -17.1% 3,584 3,755 -4.6%
A6 724 799 -9.4% 1,912 1,813 5.5%
A8 560 63 788.9% 1,371 149 820.1%
Audi Q5 2,083 1,701 22.5% 5,206 3,811 36.6%
Audi Q7 739 541 36.6% 2,237 1,380 62.1%
R8 106 52 103.8% 279 129 116.3%
TT 214 152 40.8% 436 347 25.6%
Total Audi Sales 9,818 8,589 14.3% 25,383 21,315 19.1%

NOTES:
- 2010 A4 numbers include Audi A4 sedan, Avant, and S4 models. 2009 A4 numbers include A4 cabriolet, which has been discontinued.
- 2010 A5 numbers include Audi A5 cabriolet and coupe’ and S5 cabriolet and coupe’
models. 2009 A5 numbers do not include the cabriolet models.
- A6 includes Audi A6 sedan, S6 sedan and A6 Avant models.
- A8 includes Audi A8 sedan, A8L sedan, and S8 sedan models.
- TT includes Audi TT coupe’ and TT roadster models.

The New Audi A8 is an Inspired Study of Progressive Design

Posted on 30 March 2011 by

Audi A8 Progressive Design

The new Audi A8 is an inspired study of progressive design. The new model is a collection of ideas and technologies that result in a shift of the luxury paradigm. Timeless Audi design principles live on, and in fact, evolve magnificently with the A8. Completely redesigned, the A8 embraces everything that makes the four rings a symbol of progress.

Follow the link to learn more about the Audi A8 http://models.audiusa.com/a8

With its distinctive 42,000 square foot dealership–the largest in the Audi USA dealer portfolio–Boardwalk Audi is committed to interlacing Audi’s unparalleled engineering prowess with exceptional service performance.  As a member of Boardwalk Auto Group we cultivate a focus on top-flight performance. It’s the driving force behind every nameplate we represent, every car we maintain, and every customer we have the privilege to serve. Performance. It’s what we do.

The 2011 Audi A8′s Interior is Designed to Near Perfection

Posted on 25 March 2011 by

Audi A8  Interior Design

The 2011 Audi A8′s interior is designed to near perfection. Using only the finest leathers and woods crafted by hand, the interior of this luxury car is the ideal combination or form and function. The groundbreaking MMI technology, Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System, Interior Ambient Lighting, available Solar Sunroof and Multi-function Steering Wheel with Shift Paddles makes this flagship sedan the most teched out car in its class.

Audi A8  Rear Seating

The 2011 Audi A8‘s rear seating is the new benchmark for passenger luxury. The Executive Rear Seating Package in the A8L includes power rear single seats with memory for personalized comfort. A fixed leather rear center console, integrated foot rests for rear passengers with one being an executive seat with power foot rest and Valcona leather for both front and rear seats offer a more luxurious driving experience. A refrigerator is also included for added convenience. The rear seat entertainment system includes two 10″ LCD screens and a DVD player.

With its distinctive 42,000 square foot dealership–the largest in the Audi USA dealer portfolio–Boardwalk Audi is committed to interlacing Audi’s unparalleled engineering prowess with exceptional service performance.  As a member of Boardwalk Auto Group we cultivate a focus on top-flight performance. It’s the driving force behind every nameplate we represent, every car we maintain, and every customer we have the privilege to serve. Performance. It’s what we do.

Audi A8 Pure Aesthetics: Luxury and Performance

Posted on 20 March 2011 by

Audi A8 Pure Aesthetics

Ambient Lighting, MMI Touch, Audi Space Frame, these are just some of the advanced features on the new Audi A8. A perfect combination of form and function, creating a car that semlessly intertwines luxury and performance.

Follow the link to learn more about the Audi A8 http://boardwalkaudiblog.com/audi-a8-luxury-in-grand-style/

With its distinctive 42,000 square foot dealership–the largest in the Audi USA dealer portfolio–Boardwalk Audi is committed to interlacing Audi’s unparalleled engineering prowess with exceptional service performance.  As a member of Boardwalk Auto Group we cultivate a focus on top-flight performance. It’s the driving force behind every nameplate we represent, every car we maintain, and every customer we have the privilege to serve. Performance. It’s what we do.

Introducing the new Audi A8 – Audi’s flagship luxury sedan

Posted on 15 March 2011 by

Audi A8 Introduction

Introducing the new Audi A8 – Audi’s flagship luxury sedan. The 2011 A8 is designed to satisfy the most discerning driver who demands everything from a performance luxury sedan. Welcome to the new luxury class. Luxury has Progressed.

Follow the link to learn more about the new Audi A8 http://audi.us/es4Qbu

With its distinctive 42,000 square foot dealership–the largest in the Audi USA dealer portfolio–Boardwalk Audi is committed to interlacing Audi’s unparalleled engineering prowess with exceptional service performance.  As a member of Boardwalk Auto Group we cultivate a focus on top-flight performance. It’s the driving force behind every nameplate we represent, every car we maintain, and every customer we have the privilege to serve. Performance. It’s what we do.

Free Asphalt Audi RS 3 game for the iPhone

Posted on 14 March 2011 by

  • Asphalt Audi RS 3 racing game offers exclusive driving experience
  • International competition – grand prize is an Audi A3 Sportback
  • Free Asphalt Audi RS 3 game for the iPhone

Just in time for the exhibition debut of the Audi RS 3 Sportback at the Geneva Motor Show, a new app arrived on March 3rd that allows all iPhone owners to take the new Audi model for a test drive. With the free racing game for the iPhone called Asphalt Audi RS 3, players can choose between two tracks (Bahamas and Tokyo), both of which feature thrilling graphics.

The iPhone app, which is available from the Apple App Store, was designed in partnership with Gameloft. Gameloft is the world’s biggest developer and publisher of video games for mobile devices. The sixth edition of the Asphalt racing game series, which has sold more than 20 million copies worldwide, has been available since December 2010.

Winning in the Asphalt Audi RS 3 game involves more than just driving over the finish line: with skilled driving maneuvers players can beat their competitors or explore hidden short cuts. “This is a way for our customers to get to know the new Audi RS 3 Sportback even before the official market launch,” said Lothar Korn, Head of Marketing Communications at Audi.

In the game, the youngest member of the Audi RS family can be controlled using the touch-screen or via tilt control, which the iPhone allows to be used as the steering wheel. Customized configuration of the car is also possible.

For people who want more than just virtual driving fun, there’s a link that leads to Audi’s mobile website as well as to a page with an overview of all Audi apps (www.audi.de/apps). From there, iPhone owners can download numerous other Audi apps.

In the Asphalt Audi RS 3 Contest players can climb their way to the top of a worldwide online list. In this international competition, the player with the fastest time after three rounds on the Bahamas track will win an Audi A3 Sportback 2.0 TFSI quattro with the S line sports and exterior package, quattro drive, leather trim, xenon plus headlights and a BOSE sound system. The contest runs from March 3 to 16.

Starting March 3, the Asphalt Audi RS 3 iPhone racing game will be available worldwide at no cost from the Apple App Store in German, English, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese, Chinese and Korean versions. After installing the program players can use all of the content of the app with an active Internet connection. The game is designed for the iPhone, but also functions on an iPad and iPod touch.

The contest is being offered in Germany, Australia, Belgium, China, France, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Japan, Canada (except for Quebec), Mexico, the Netherlands, Austria, Russia, Switzerland, Spain, South Korea and the United States (including the District of Columbia). Participants must be of full legal age and possess a valid driver’s license.

You can find more information about Gameloft and the Asphalt Audi RS 3 game at www.gameloft.de and at www.audi-mediaservices.de.

Head of Audi Design, Stefan Sielaff, discusses the Revolutionary Design of the all-new Audi A7

Posted on 10 March 2011 by

Audi A7 Revolutionary Design

Characterized by very precise lines, low front-end, and almost negative shape of the distinctive rear-end, Head of Audi Design, Stefan Sielaff, discusses the revolutionary design of the all-new Audi A7. The all-new Audi A7 makes a bold design statement with its progressive exterior lines and innovative design process. Follow the link for more info on this emotion-packed car Audi A7.
With its distinctive 42,000 square foot dealership–the largest in the Audi USA dealer portfolio–Boardwalk Audi is committed to interlacing Audi’s unparalleled engineering prowess with exceptional service performance.  As a member of Boardwalk Auto Group we cultivate a focus on top-flight performance. It’s the driving force behind every nameplate we represent, every car we maintain, and every customer we have the privilege to serve. Performance. It’s what we do.

Audi Q5 hybrid quattro

Posted on 04 March 2011 by

Power like a V6, fuel consumption like a four-cylinder TDI – the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro, scheduled to arrive at dealerships at the end of the year, is the first mass-produced hybrid model from Audi that makes use of two drive systems. Delivering 180 kW (245 hp) of system performance and 480 Nm (354.03 lb-ft) of torque, its 2.0 TFSI gasoline engine and electric motor ensure sporty dynamics while achieving an average fuel consumption in the normal cycle (NEDC) of under 6.9 liters per 100 km (33.60 US mpg).

During the development process, Audi focused on a high share of electrically powered driving. The sportiest hybrid SUV on the market can drive up to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) under electric power alone and covers about three kilometers locally emission-free at a speed of 60 km/h (37.28 mph). With the powerful, lightweight lithium-ion battery and many other solutions, the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro represents the state of the art.

Performance
The 2.0 TFSI and the electric motor of the Audi Q5 hybrid are mounted directly behind one another as a parallel hybrid system – a straight-line concept with impressive efficiency. Together they have a system output of 180 kW (245 hp) and a system torque of 480 Nm (354.03 lb-ft). The Audi Q5 hybrid sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.1 seconds, while the interim sprint from 80 to 120 km/h (49.71 to 74.56 mph) is accomplished in fifth gear in 5.9 seconds. The propulsion ends at no less than 222 km/h (137.94 mph).

In the normal cycle, the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro consumes 6.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (33.60 US mpg) – that corresponds to a CO2 emissions level of 159 g per km (257.50 g/mile). The 75-liter (19.81-US gallon) tank yields an impressive range comparable to that of a TDI.

Drivetrain
The 2.0 TFSI in the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro has a displacement of 1984 cc. Its output is 155 kW (211 hp), with the maximum torque of 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) permanently available between 1,500 and 4,200 rpm. The four-cylinder unit combines gasoline direct injection with turbocharging. The Audi valve lift system (AVS) further increases power, torque and efficiency by switching the stroke of the exhaust valves between two stages depending on the load and rpm.

The 2.0 TFSI has been overhauled in some respects for use in the Audi Q5 hybrid. The drive of the ancillary units has been dropped, and the crankshaft bearing and fine tuning of the turbocharger have been adapted to the specific demands. A secondary air system at the cylinder head makes sure that the exhaust gas treatment cuts in particularly fast. Integrated in the engine control unit, the so-called hybrid manager controls the efficient change and smooth transitions between the operating modes.

A largely modified eight-speed tiptronic serves as the power transmission without the aid of a torque converter. Its place is taken by the disk-shaped electric motor, combined with a multi-plate clutch bathed in oil, which couples and decouples the electric motor and the TFSI. The innovative decoupler operates precisely and smoothly in any situation.

The highly comfortable and fast-shifting hybrid gear unit contributes significantly to the efficiency of the Audi Q5 hybrid – its eight gears are widely spaced. When the 2.0 TFSI is deactivated, an electric pump maintains the oil pressure in the hydraulic system to safeguard the convenient start-stop feature.

Power electronics and electric motor
The radiator tank in the engine bay houses the power electronics. The so-called pulse-controlled inverter serves as a controller between the battery, which outputs direct current, and the electric motor that operates on alternating current. Innovative technologies keep the volume and weight of the power electronics low, with cooling provided by a separate low-temperature water-filled circuit. The component includes a DC/DC converter that couples the electric consumers in the 12 V electrical system with the high-voltage network.

A permanently excited synchronous machine serves as an electric motor, as a starter and – during deceleration – as an alternator. It delivers up to 40 kW (54 hp) of power and 210 Nm (155.63 lb-ft) of torque. The electric motor is integrated in the engine’s cooling circuit.

Battery
A lithium-ion battery system, weighing merely 38 kg (83.78 lb), serves as the energy store for the electric motor of the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro. The compact unit with its 26-liter (6.87 US-gallon) capacity is positioned in a crash-safe area under the loading floor, with hardly any detriment to the luggage compartment. The battery consists of 72 cells; at 266 volts its nominal energy is 1.3 kWh and its output 39 kW.

The lithium-ion battery is cooled by air in two ways, depending on the requirement. At low-temperature load, it draws temperate air from the vehicle interior by way of a fan. If its temperature exceeds a certain limit, a separate refrigerant circuit is activated. It is coupled to the main climate control system of the vehicle and uses a separate evaporator. This efficient, active cooling mechanism is a major factor in the hybrid system’s high electric availability and sets the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro apart from many other hybrid vehicles.

Operating modes
The Audi Q5 hybrid quattro can be driven in five operating modes. Driving with the combustion engine alone, with the electric drive alone or in hybrid mode is possible, as are recuperation and boosting. At a standstill – before starting or at a traffic light, for instance – both drive sources are deactivated. In this “comfort” start-stop mode, the climate control system remains active. Once the driver releases the brake, the Q5 hybrid quattro begins coasting. It can be driven up to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) under electric power – with almost no noise or local emissions. At a constant speed of 60 km/h (37.28 mph), it has a range of 3 km – enough for many residential areas and city centers.

The driver can change between three programs using a button on the center console or the selector lever. The EV characteristic map gives priority to the electric drive in the city, the D mode controls both motors for optimal consumption, and the S mode as well as the touch control gate of the tiptronic are designed for a sporty driving style.

If the driver accelerates quickly, the combustion engine takes over and delivers traction. Now the electric motor’s main job is to power the on-board consumers and keep the accumulator battery charged. In quick acceleration, or “boosting,” the electric motor operates together with the TFSI; at full throttle in the S mode the full system output is briefly available. In such cases, the hybrid drive supplies the propulsion power of a large naturally aspirated engine, but with far more efficiency.

When the driver releases the accelerator, the electric motor acts as an alternator and recovers energy. In most situations the TFSI is then decoupled from the drive system so as not to cause any drag losses. The electricity recovered by the electric motor here and in braking is buffered in the lithium-ion battery. If the driver brakes only slightly, the electric motor performs the deceleration by itself; in more forceful braking the hydraulic braking system is simultaneously activated.

Vehicle operation
The Audi Q5 hybrid features a novel display concept, in which each of the hybrid drive’s driving modes can be experienced. The tachometer has been replaced on the instrument cluster by a “power meter,” with a needle that indicates the total system output on a scale of 0 to 100. A second scale is divided into colored segments; its green and orange segments clearly show which drive system the Q5 hybrid quattro is currently using. An additional instrument displays the charge level of the battery.

At the same time, the display of the driver information system and the large monitor of the MMI Navigation plus show the operating states and power flows in the hybrid system in elegant graphics with a three-dimensional effect. The MMI screen also displays differentiated consumption and recuperation statistics in easily understandable bar graphs.

The latest-generation MMI navigation plus is standard in the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro. The storage capacity of the hard drive is 60 GB, the menus can be selected via a state-of-the-art wizard, and the album tracks are displayed using the cover artwork. An external device such as a cell phone or player can be connected via Bluetooth, and the voice input understands town and street names in a single command. The resonant Audi sound system is also standard.

quattro drive and chassis
quattro permanent four-wheel drive reliably applies the power of both power units to the road in any situation. In the normal condition the sporty drive is emphasized at the rear; if need be, it transmits most of the power to the axle with the better traction. The sophisticated chassis includes many aluminum components for reduced weight. The Audi Q5 hybrid quattro is capable of pulling trailer loads of up to 2000 kg (4,409 lb).

The steering is based on an electromechanical system. The system is extremely efficient because it consumes no energy when driving straight ahead. The brake servo is additionally supplied by an electric vacuum pump. A complex control strategy adapts the braking to the conditions of electric driving and energy recuperation.

Exterior
Subtle visual effects on the exterior are a signature feature of the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro. The rear hatch, fenders and aluminum door sills bear hybrid badges. The radiator grill is painted a high-gloss black, and the tailpipes are trimmed in chrome. An exclusive paint finish in Arctic Silver metallic is available as an option.

The 19-inch cast aluminum wheels were specially designed for the hybrid – their ten spokes are reminiscent of turbine blades. The tires are size 235/55. Audi also offers customers 19- and 20-inch diagonal wheels, and an S line bumper is available from quattro GmbH.

The body is extraordinarily light, with the rear hatch and engine hood made of aluminum. The rigid body shell incorporates hot-shaped steel in numerous places, combining low weight with extremely high strength. Despite an extensive array of standard equipment, the Q5 hybrid quattro with its curb weight of less than 2000 kg (4,409 lb) is the lightest hybrid SUV on the world market. All of its hybrid components add less than 130 kg (286.60 lb) of extra weight.

Equipment and trim
The climate control system in the Audi Q5 hybrid is adapted to the requirements of electric driving. A high-voltage electric drive was used for the compressor. It operates on-demand, making it highly efficient. An electric auxiliary heater ensures that the cabin heats up quickly.

The Audi Q5 hybrid quattro offers virtually the same equipment as its successful sibling models – the model series leads the European market in the mid-sized SUV segment. The options also include the advanced Audi driver assistance systems.

A new feature is Internet connectivity via the optional Bluetooth car phone online. A UMTS model connects to special services from Google and the World Wide Web, allowing the car to retrieve the latest news and weather information. Through the fast connection the hybrid SUV also downloads three-dimensional satellite images and aerial photos from Google Earth. These appear in a bird’s eye view on the monitor, and the computer fills in the roads. Another high-end feature is the WLAN hotspot, which allows passenger to connect up to eight terminal devices to the Internet.

The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.