Once a chore for well-established automakers to incorporate electrified powerplants in a realistic production vehicle, the task has become much easier in recent model years as high volume and even premium car builders have embraced the technology. In reality, optimizing electric vehicle technology is likely to be the only method for some automakers to meet fleet fuel economy regulations without drastically removing our favourite high fuel-consuming cars. Under the pressure of higher fuel prices than on North American roads, European auto companies have long been providing customers with smaller gasoline engines and longer-range diesel powerplants. However, the push for all-electric as well as electric-assist automobiles is receiving the same enthusiasm for promoting more fuel savings.

Since 2009, Audi has delighted the taste buds of green-conscious auto show goers with the promise of their e-tron technology to premium vehicle customers. Putting electric-sourced movement at the forefront of a future involving luxury-branded motoring, the latest Audi e-tron Spyder introduced at the 2010 Paris Motor Show is the best of everything a fan of the four-ring division would want.

Started as an all-electric showcase, Audi’s e-tron has begun to embrace the plug-in hybrid propulsion model. Chiefly moved by two electric motors mounted to the front axle through urban travel, 88 total horsepower drives the e-tron Spyder as far as 50 kilometers or 31 miles on a single charge. Under more performance-based driving experiences, the German auto company adds a twin-turbocharged, 3-liter TDI engine to back up the electric power. Setting the Audi concept vehicle in motion through 300 horsepower, this is the same TDI engine revealed on the European Audi A8 with a 50 horsepower boost. The Audi e-tron Spyder also providing “boosting“ under acceleration as the two electric motors shoots the car movement in concert with the turbocharged diesel engine. Combining 388 horsepower and a collective 739 pounds-feet of torque, the experimental sports car proposed by e-tron is estimated to send performance-seeking riders from 0 to 62 miles per hour in 4.4 seconds. Using a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the Audi e-tron Spyder maximizes performance and vehicle efficiency.

An urban-centric sport convertible, this latest Audi e-tron Spyder shows off a striking performance ambition. Within 13.32 foot in length by 5.94 feet in width, the Audi e-tron Spyder accomplishes a race car appearance inspired by the R8 LMS vehicle. Looking over the road with LED headlamps, the highly-aluminum Audi Space Frame is based around a mid-engined design configuration. Carbon fiber touches such as a spoiler and rear diffuser creates a sporty accent to the Audi e-tron Spyder’s outer surface. Hind side area engine cover allows the upper stack of the Audi TDI powerplant to poke through the Audi e-tron Spyder. Completing the theme of a thrilling street rod or race car, 20-inch aluminum wheels formulates into a turbine blade design. With the notable exception to the chopped windscreen, the Audi e-tron Spyder displays a consider production car grace.

Including the full-array of exterior lighting and wearing side view mirrors, the interior of the Audi e-tron Spyder is clean but practical. Given a light and breezy appearance with a gentle degree of curves, Audi’s sports car concept features two racing-inspired bucket seats. For a high-tech interior touch, the Audi MMI system is behind the comfort as well as entertainment in the snug spyder. Instead of the center-mounted control display, the Audi e-tron Spyder instrument panel embeds the MMI setup between gauges. The Audi MMI can be controlled either through the traditional center-mounted unit or via a touch-sensitive steering wheel panel.

Buying time before the first e-tron powered Audi joins cars for sale in the 2014 model year, Audi has begun selling the Audi A6 Hybrid sedan. Once released, the Audi e-tron sports car will not be alone in exploring the world of plug-in hybrid premium personal vehicles. A Chevrolet Volt-based Cadillac ELR and a BMW i8 are set for arrival in showrooms over the next several years.

Information and photo source: Audi AG

Preparing to show off the radical urban concept design at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, Audi’s inventive look to a motoring future could be seen as a little too distant. For North American motorists in particular, the small, ultralight concept car would instantly come into conflict with the desire for cargo room and passenger space. Planning a sensational arrangement of production and design evaluations for the auto show at Frankfurt, Audi has recently announced the addition of a compact, electric vehicle fitting more easily into today’s driving lifestyle. Registered as a concept car, the Audi A2 explores advanced technology integrating with contemporary automotive fashion.

Residing within tight quarters, the Audi A2 concept car advocates the incredible packaging potential of an electric powertrain platform. A total length of 3.8 meters (149.61 inches), the A2 concept is 19.37 inches shorter than the smallest North American Audi, the A3. Featuring Audi’s aluminum construction techniques along with a dark glass roof, the A2 concept is a four-door hatchback configured with a mature sport utility crossover gracefulness.

An all-electric powertrain on the Audi A2 concept keeps items such as the battery and motors positioned to maximize interior space. Though a small vehicle, four passengers are still positioned comfortably inside the Audi A2 concept. Thin seats manufactured using plastic blow molding is positioned individually in the cabin. Also included in the Audi concept vehicle‘s cabin is a center storage spot ideal for carrying a bicycle with front wheels removed. A flat floor area made of recycled polyester covers beneath the feet of the passengers of the Audi A2 concept car while gentle light enters overhead through the glass roof with press button operation. Inside the minimalist cabin, touch control panels and a 7-inch screen continues to inspire innovation of the Audi A2 concept.

Beyond exhibiting effective of space, the Audi A2 concept is highlighted by charming illumination inside and outside. Employing LED lighting for the headlamps and taillights, Audi touts their presence as “the next phase” in the technology‘s development. Positioned in what is known as a matrix beam, the headlamp construction involves diodes combined with microreflectors to create a better quality view of the road. In assisting other motorists, a rear fog light incorporating laser diodes provides superior warning to following drivers. With the use of lasers diodes, a warning triangle projected by the A2 concept can penetrate even inclement weather conditions such as fog.

Along with the LEDs found in the conventional lit positions of the Audi A2 concept, an application known as dynamic light. A pair of light bars runs under the A2 concept’s side windows delivering a number of functions. An extension of turn signal lighting when the vehicle is motion, Sensors included within Audi’s dynamic light assemblies offer driver and passengers touchless entrance through simple gestures.

A design exercise at the Frankfurt Motor Show for 2011, the implementation for a production-based compact Audi electrified powerplant has been a topic of automotive rumour mills. During the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, Audi revealed an A1 concept utilizing the company’s e-tron plug-in hybrid technology. Recent tests of a converted version of previous generation A2 compact showed immense potential. Said to have crossed a distance of 372 miles on a single charge, the experimental A2 was powered off an experimental battery created by Mirko Hannemann. Assembled through a partnership between Lekker Energie and DBM Energy, their Audi A2 electric was not an official factory prototype leaving uncertainty if Audi AG engineers have realized the battery technology for the new concept car.

Joining the urban concept and three new ranges of the Audi S model family debuting at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt starting September 15th, the A2 concept shows another dimension of the premium German brand’s automotive expression.

Information source: Audi AG, Engadget.com
Photo source: Audi AG

The kick-off to the world indoor auto show season, 2011 is the lucky biennial year where automotive enthusiasts get to relish in the spectacle of the Frankfurt Motor Show. Guaranteed already to be a showcase of new ideas in the ever-evolving auto industry, production and concept vehicles are presented in abundance for the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show even as more than two weeks separate the exhibit’s grand opening. A motor show of world intrigue, Ford Motor Company, Toyota, Mercedes-Benz and BMW have been wetting the appetites of potential show goers through previews of their Frankfurt Motor Show presentations. An exhibition based in their home country, Volkswagen’s luxury car brand Audi will also be making a strong showing on September 15th.

In preparation for the 2011 Frankfurt Motor show, Audi has a history of bringing profound guidance for where they want to take their brand’s image. In the last Frankfurt show in 2009, Audi presented their e-tron concept for the very first time to the public. Since the showing almost two years ago, Audi’s continuing development of e-tron is likely to directly lead to a production-based vehicle. Audi also publicly premiered the R8 Spyder at the 2009 show generating some more tradition open-motoring performance buzz. As their world sales increased by 15 percent in 2010 (just one year following the Audi’s last Frankfurt display), the German auto company’s success will garner more focus on their upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show plans. Supplying samples for performance and low-impact driving, Audi seems ready to entertain the German city’s crowd.

Presented in early to mid August, Audi’s prospect for exploiting a full city car design led to the urban concept brainchild. The urban concept car was unveiled ahead of the Frankfurt show in illustrated form ahead of the lightweight 1+1 passenger vehicle’s presentation in real life. Since the debut of the Audi urban concept sketches on August 10th, Audi immediately followed-up the early images with an open top version of the unique smaller car. The Spyder version of the urban concept shares the impressive sport style in a small, electric vehicle package.

Aside from the debut of a radical new way of motoring, Audi will use Frankfurt as the official public introduction of three new models of their S performance line. Added to the 2012 Audi portfolio, the S6 (including the S6 Avant) and the large S8 sedan will debut as new generation vehicles. For the first time since its introduction last year, the Audi A7 Sportback receives its initial taste of S line enthusiasm. Receiving its first eight-cylinder powerplant, the S7 Sportback, along with the S6 and S8, will receive a new generation engine engineered to provide top performance along with improved fuel economy.

Taking a similar approach as with Mercedes-Benz and BMW by consolidating engines used in their performance line-ups, a new 4.0 liter V-8 engine will beat under the hood of all three S models. Smaller than the S line’s previous benchmark, the more compact Audi engine is just as exciting as the next generation models. Providing up to 520 horsepower of sheer driving excitement, the S6, S7 Sportback and the S8 will be guided by Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system.

As a third separate feature ready to attract spectators at the Audi pavilion, the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show will debut a concept version of the A2. The Audi A2 concept displays a compact car form optimizing cargo space thanks to an electric powertrain. Just recently announced, the Audi A2 concept has become the latest edition to a flashy auto show presentation.

Starting September 15th, the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show will play host to more than 850,000 spectators and over 13,000 members of the esteemed media. With only two weeks remaining until Audi’s near and distant future vision of premium motoring is unveiled to the public, Audisite.com will provide fans of the German luxury brand with in-depth information on the vehicles being profiled.

Information and photo source: Audi AG

Higher end automotive are always under the test of social ideals and economic factors. Emerging as a challenge for future auto industry is limiting environmental impact. The reality of incorporating for fuel-efficient products into future vehicle line-ups is causing all luxury carmakers to envision their brand images much different forms.

While Mercedes-Benz allows the Smart car to advertise some type of more urban-directed content, BMW has most recently pressed the start of their electrified vehicle-oriented BMW i sub brand into the 2014 model year. For the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show, American car company Cadillac explored more conservative proportions with their Urban Luxury Concept. In these cases, the premium carmakers, often challenged to prove their vehicles to be the best examples in the world, has risen to the occasion building smaller, lighter, fuel-efficient designs while preserving the best of their brand identity. Entering itself in a position to best what the world premium car industry has to offer, Audi will show up the latest edition in their e-tron electric vehicles in the smallest possible shape. Debuting a practical two-passenger concept at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show upcoming in September, the Audi Urban Concept car launches Audi onto an all-new wave of thought.

Existing in such a small confide the Urban Concept vehicle appears brilliantly relay common Audi exterior qualities. Though actual dimensions are not defined at this time, the Audi Urban Concept is certain to measure as one of the smallest design concept ever conceived by the Germany luxury brand. Likely to be more aesthetic than functional, the large simple front grille opening boldly holds the Audi rings. Primarily light silver exterior in the images issued by Audi, the Urban Concept is accented by a red stripe traveling upwards along each side of the vehicle. Massive 21-inch wheels complete the Audi Urban Concept further enhancing the sense of smallness for the design study.

Audi has been one of the leading auto brands in the implementation of lightweight technology throughout their product line. Relying on the properties of aluminum in creating the structure of current production vehicles, Audi ventures into design exploration with carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) creating the small Urban Concept car. The use of CFRP applied to the small vehicle should guarantee a relatively feather-light existence compared to production cars.

Powerplant has only been announced as featuring two electric motors propelled by energy stored in a lithium-ion battery. Benefiting from Audi’s e-tron program, the range and speed of the Audi Urban Concept was yet to be provided ahead of the unveiling at Frankfurt.

Opening up the interior through the movement of a single panel, the Audi Urban Concept introduces an interesting cabin layout. Called a 1+1 seat vehicle, the passenger sits slightly further back than the driver‘s position. Providing the passenger with a performance feel, the design should also be helpful in furnishing a greater field of view to the driver of the Audi Urban Concept.

Audi fans and small car enthusiasts can expect more information on the Urban Concept design to be revealed at the Frankfurt exhibit.

Information and photo source: Audi AG

Just a couple weeks shy of the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, Audi slips us a peek at the A3 Concept – a prototype for the upcoming successor to the current A3 hatch. The four-seater “notchback” sedan, as they call it, is powered by a turbocharged, five-cylinder engine capable of a hefty 408 horsepower driving power to all four wheels via a seven-speed S tronic transmission.

Its defining features, aside from the monstrous engine, of course, are its single-frame grille that flows into the headlights, and the low-profile, sleek roofline carried from front to back. Don’t expect to pick this up the dealer any time soon – or ever – but we should be keeping an eye out for an updated A3 within the next couple of years.

We’ve seen the Audi e-tron electric supercar in red since the Frankfurt Motor Show, but Audi just repainted it orange and brought it to the 2009 LA Auto Show for North America.

As you know, the e-tron sports four motors – one on each wheel – and creates only 313 horsepower, but an incredible 3,319 lb-ft of torque. This allows the e-tron to travel from 0 to 62 mpg in 4.8 seconds – a decent number – and 37 to 75 mph in 4.1 seconds, much more impressive. The top speed is limited to 124 mph, probably to stop the batteries from discharging too quickly.

The e-tron resembles the R8 in appearance, but Audi assures us the resemblance is in spirit only. They built the e-tron from the ground up, but gave it a similar look to convey its high performance characteristics. I’m really interested to see what this thing will really be able to do once we start seeing them “in limited production” in 2012.

Check out the photo gallery below:

Just-added photos of the orange colored e-tron courtesy of Autoblog and Wired.

Exo-Audi Concept

As a driving enthusiast, I love the driver-vehicle connection. To me, there is no better pleasure (ok, almost no better pleasure) than driving down a smooth, curvy road at 20 mph over the posted limit in a proper sports car. The feeling of being one with the car that only a good manual transmission can give you. The feeling that you aren’t driving the car, rather you and the car are working together as a team to propel you down the road.

The new Exo-Audi Concept is an extreme example of this driver-vehicle connection – maybe even a little creepy…

The Exo-Audi has no engine. Instead, it’s powered by the driver’s kinetic energy (movement.) “Taking advantage of the exoskeleton and nanotechnology evolution, we can create a potential energy source and produce a new generation of human powered vehicles: faster and stronger.”

I’m not exactly sure what that means, and I’m no scientist, but I do know that energy cannot be created or destroyed – only transferred and converted. This means that it would take an immense amount of effort for a vehicle powered solely by a human to travel at high speeds. Think of riding a bicycle – they’re small, light, and have few parts. They’re also powered solely by our own movement. I don’t know about you, but I get tired after riding a bike any sort of distance, and it’s most definitely not at highway speeds.

Obviously they had something more complex than that in mind, given the comment on evolving nanotechnology, but my point remains the same in that we as humans only have so much energy to use at any given point, and to create any more would require an external power source. I’d be interested in hearing more details on this concept.

source: Yanko Design

Audi Q5 custom concept

Audi made their first appearance at the Wörthersee Tour in Austria this year, with quite a display. They showcased 20 cars total in their 3,000 sq ft stand, from the TT RS, to the R8 V10, and A1 Sportback Concept.

The highlight of the Audi display however was a heavily modified version of the 2009 Q5, called (quite descriptively) the Audi Q5 custom concept. For this new concept, Audi engineers lowered the Q5′s suspension by 2.36 inches, widened the track by 3.54 inches, added big 21-inch custom wheels, and gave it a special Daytona Gray paint finish.

Audi Q5 custom concept Engine bay

They didn’t stop there, of course. They also tuned the output of the Q5′s 3.0-liter TFSI V6 engine from a decent 333hp to 408hp, which gives this Q5 an incredible 0-62 mph time of only 4.4 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited at 155 mph.

Some vehicles of note on display at the Audi booth were both the coupe and roadster versions of the TT RS, the R8 5.2 V10, R8 GT3, and the A1 Sportback Concept. Also on display were the production A3 Cabriolet, A4 allroad quattro, A5 Cabriolet, S5, RS 6, TT Coupe, A4 Avant, and A3 Sportback. They also displayed some historic Audi models: Audi 50, 100 Coupé S, Ur-quattro, 100, TT Coupé (1st generation), and the A2.

Also announced at the Wörthersee Tour is the Audi Customizing club, which allows chosen participants from the event to submit creative design ideas for Audi A3 accessories (spoilers, headlights, steering wheels, wheels, etc.) The participants will log in at www.audi-customizing-club.de with their invitation code and submit their designs this summer. Three winners will be chosen, and their designs will be featured on an upcoming Audi showcar and shown to the public at an event in the future.

See below for a photo gallery of the Q5 custom concept:

Audi Q5 custom concept

Audi R8 V12 TDI

Despite everyone lusting over the R8 V12 TDI Concept from last year, Audi has decided to halt plans on development, citing that “the market isn’t strong enough to make it realistic.” According to AutoExpress, the final blow was a lack of demand in the United States for diesels – the US accounts for one-third of global R8 sales. What a shame, we should absolutely be adopting the idea of diesel engines right now.

Audi claims the cost of re-engineering the petrol R8 to accommodate the massive twin-turbocharged diesel engine is simply too great – and that it would be unable to recoup its investment through sales alone.

But man, what an engine it is. The 5.5-liter TDI engine produced 500 horsepower and over 738 lb-ft of torque for a 0-60 mph blast of 4.2 seconds.

Source: AutoExpress

Audi A0 Mini-Car Concept

Theophilus Chin is at it again, this time creating a mini-car Audi concept called the A0 (pronounced A-Oh, not A-Zero.) The A0 is based off of the 2007 Audi Metroproject Quattro Concept, and would compete with the likes of the Smart ForTwo and Toyota iQ.

I, for one would hate to see Audi to do something like this. In fact I think the A3 is too small. Audi doesn’t need to go to a compact, and they damn better not ever try to make an economy car. Cute concept though!

source: TheophilusChin.com