Audi unveils the A8 hybrid
Posted 24th August, 2011 in Audi | Leave a comment
Audi has unveiled a hybrid version of its flagship saloon, the A8. Due to go into production next year, the A8 hybrid is powered by a four cylinder 2.0L TSI petrol engine and electric motor – developing 180 kW (245 hp). Impressively, the A8 hybrid can travel up to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) powered purely by electricity, or – if driven at a constant speed of 60 km/h (37.28 mph)- can cover a range of around three kilometers (1.86 miles) with zero local emissions.
The fact that this A6 is able to use less than 6.4L of fuel per 100 km isn’t all due to the addition of a 40 kW (54 hp) electric motor, but the car’s construction also has a large role to play. Thanks to its ASF (Audi Space Frame) aluminium shell, the A8 hybrid’s body weighs a mere 231 kilograms (509.27 lb), undercutting its steel equivalent by around 40 percent.
Visually, the A6 wears tell tale ‘hybrid’ badges, turbine-inspired alloy wheels – available as a 19-inch upgrade or 18-inch as standard. LED headlights and Arctic Silver paintwork, a hue exclusive to the A8 hybrid.
In visual terms, the Audi A8 hybrid is distinguished by subtle details. The ten spokes of its alloy wheels – which have a diameter of 18 inches as standard and 19 inches as an option – are reminiscent of turbine blades. The body features hybrid badges, and Arctic Silver is available as an exclusive paint finish. The metallic paint finish, three-zone automatic air conditioning, LED headlights and the BOSE sound system come standard.
[Source: Audi]
