* Fuel consumption, CO2 emission figures and efficiency classes given in ranges depend on the tire/wheel sets used.
** The collective consumption values of all models named and available on the German market can be found in the list provided at the end of this press release.

“We launched a limited series of the Audi R8 V10 RWS** at the beginning of 2018,” says Oliver Hoffmann, Managing Director of Audi Sport GmbH. “Its rear-wheel drive derived from the R8-LMS racing car, and the special dynamics sparked our customers’ enthusiasm right away. Now it will become part of the R8 family as a separate model, the R8 V10 RWD**. And we are giving it the same sharp look with which we designed the new R8 quattro models. At the same time as we are releasing the series production model, we are also offering the R8 LMS GT4 racing car with a new look.”

The series production car: Audi R8 V10 RWD

The design of the R8 V10 RWD

The new design features perfectly highlight the dynamics of the Audi R8 V10 RWD**, which is available as a Coupé and Spyder. The Singleframe is broader and flatter, and the slits below the hood are reminiscent of the brand’s icon, the Audi Sport quattro. 

The air inlets, the front splitter and in particular the air outlet grille at the rear have become broader. The diffuser, which is flanked by two oval tailpipes, has moved further upward. In the engine compartment, the air filter is situated under a new cover, which is available in a choice of plastic or carbon fiber. 

The sideblades of the R8 V10 RWD** hint at the model’s special status: The top blade is designed in glossy mythos black, while the bottom blade is painted in the color of the vehicle. The front blade, the side sill inserts and the diffuser are painted in gloss black as standard. The carbon styling package and, for the Spyder, an extended black styling package are available as an alternative. Kemora gray has been added to the color chart. As an option, the Audi rings and logo are painted in high-gloss black. Inside, the driver and passenger sit in sport seats covered in leather and Alcantara. A shiny badge with the “RWD” logo is fitted across from the front passenger. 

The heart of the high-performance sports car: the 5.2 FSI

The heart of the Audi R8 V10 RWD** high-performance sports car beats behind the passenger cell. The naturally aspirated V10 inspires pure fascination, with an incomparable sound, lightning-fast response and immense torque. The 5.2 FSI delivers 397 kW (540 PS) and at 6,500 rpm, it achieves a maximum torque of 540 Nm (398.3 lb-ft) that is transferred to the rear wheels via a seven-speed S tronic and a mechanical locking differential. 

The R8 V10 RWD Coupé (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 12.9 (18.2 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km:293–294 (471.5–473.1 g/mi)) catapults itself and the driver from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 3.7 seconds, and its propulsion ends at 320 km/h (198.8 mph). The values for the Spyder (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 13.1 (18.0 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 298–299 (479.6–481.2 g/mi) are 3.8 seconds and 318 km/h (197.6 mph). 

Extreme vehicle dynamics for purists

The rear-wheel drive of the R8 V10 RWD** provides a very special kind of driving pleasure. If sport mode is activated in connection with the Electronic Stabilization Control ESC, the suspension setup and control system even allow controlled drifting. The power steering ensures intense contact with the road. The Audi R8 V10 RWD** rolls standard on black 19-inch forged wheels with 245/35 tires up front and 295/35 tires at the rear. 20-inch wheels and sport tires are also available; they improve the dynamics, grip and deceleration under high loads and requirements even further. 

The axle load distribution is 40:60. The Coupé (empty and without the driver) weighs just 1,595 kilograms (3,516 lb) – the omission of the propeller shaft, the quattro multi-plate clutches and front axle differential make the R8 V10 RWD** around 65 kilograms (143 lb) lighter than the R8 quattro model. Weighing 1,695 kilograms (3,737 lb), the R8 Spyder V10 RDW** is 55 kg (121 lb) lighter than the R8 Spyder V10 quattro**. Like all R8 models, it features an Audi Space Frame (ASF) body made of aluminum and large parts of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP).

The R8 V10 RWD** is produced, largely by hand, at the “Böllinger Höfe” production facility at the Audi location in Neckarsulm. The high-performance sports car with rear-wheel drive will be introduced on the European markets at the beginning of 2020; the base price for the Coupé in Germany will be EUR 144,000. The Spyder will start at EUR 157,000.

The race car: Audi R8 LMS GT4

The GT4 race car, which is directly derived from the production model with about 60 percent carry-over parts and, like the road-going version, is being produced at Böllinger Höfe at the Neckarsulm location is exclusively intended for privateer drivers. Since 2018, the previous model has clinched as many as 17 titles worldwide in racing, and now the freshly refined version has arrived. With visual cues taken directly from the production model, the new race car impresses with driving dynamics having been enhanced once again. The 5.2-liter V10 engine, delivering up to 364 kW (495 hp) as specified by the regulations, powers the race car via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Two innovations make it easier for drivers to battle for points and trophies even in challenging conditions. For the first time, the ABS braking and TC traction control systems can be precisely adjusted. The program characteristics allow for eight different settings, respectively, which the driver can individually select, depending on weather, track conditions and tire grip, etc. in racing. For this purpose, the Audi R8 LMS GT4 is equipped with the steering wheel of the GT2 racing version. The two rotary switches for ABS and TC are centrally located in the steering wheel, directly within the drivers’ view. This allows them to immediately respond to new challenges and to configure their personal setup of both systems while keeping their eyes focused on the race track. As most GT4 racing series prescribe driver changes, individual preferences can be easily and accurately selected before and after the pit stop. With these enhanced setup options, the drivers of the Audi R8 LMS GT4 are now even more competitive. Currently, there are 27 fielding opportunities in America, Asia, Australia, Europe and South Africa. Most of them exist in full-season championships, but also in stand-alone events such as the 24-hour races at the Nürburgring and in Dubai. The Audi Sport Seyffarth R8 LMS Cup in Europe and the Audi Sport R8 LMS Cup with rounds in Asia and Australia offer entrants the opportunity to compete against each other in identical cars. In the remainder of the events, the Audi R8 LMS GT4 is pitted against the competition of up to eleven models from other manufacturers. Fields of 40 entrants and more are not uncommon in GT4 racing.

Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

Audi is expanding its portfolio in the midsize to the luxury class: The Four Rings will also be offering plug-in hybrids in the A7, A8, Q5 and Q7 model lines. They all bear the “TFSI e” logo. The A6 55 TFSI e quattro* is now continuing this series. Like all Audi plug-in hybrid models, it also combines two highly efficient drives to achieve a system output of 270 kW (367 PS). 

Its four-cylinder gasoline engine, a 2.0 TFSI, delivers 185 kW (252 PS). The electric motor, which is integrated into the seven-speed S tronic, has a peak output of 105 kW. The system torque already reaches its maximum of 500 Nm (368.8 lb-ft) at a speed of 1,250 rpm. The lithium-ion battery, which is positioned in the vehicle rear, stores 14.1 kWh of energy. It is integrated such that the luggage compartment offers level and convenient luggage space.

The A6 TFSI e 55 quattro* is a sporty car that is highly efficient at the same time. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 5.6 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155.3 mph). On purely electric power, it reaches a top speed of 135 km/h (83.9 mph). Its electric range, measured according to the WLTP procedure, is up to 53 kilometers (32.9 mi). Thus the tax rate imposed on it when used as a company car in Germany is cut in half. The powerful plug-in hybrid model is the only premium sedan in the direct competitive environment that has quattro all-wheel drive on board. 

The drive concept of the Audi A6 55 TFSI e quattro* is designed so that customers can do most of their daily driving electrically and therefore with zero local emissions and nearly without sound. They can choose between the three drive modes “EV” for all-electric driving, “Hybrid” for the efficient combination of both drive types and “Hold” to conserve the electrical energy available at any given time. 

* Fuel consumption and CO2 emission figures given in ranges depend on the equipment selected
** The collective fuel consumption values of all models named and available on the German market can be found in the list provided at the end of this MediaInfo.

Locally emissions-free and nearly silent in the city, powerful and sporty on country roads, confident on long-distance journeys: The A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro** impresses with its versatile character. With this vehicle, Audi is introducing the plug-in hybrid drive to the luxury class and consistently continuing its electrification strategy. The A8 L variant of the new model, which measures 5.30 meters (17.4 ft) with its extended wheelbase, will be introduced to the European markets in the fall. The A8 as plug-in hybrid with normal wheelbase will be available a few weeks later. The Audi A7 Sportback** and the Q5 50 TFSI e quattro** and Q5 55 TFSI e quattro** SUVs have already been available on the market since September.

Powered by two hearts: an efficient combustion engine and a powerful electric motor

A 3.0 TFSI generates propulsion in the A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro. The turbocharged V6 direct-injection engine with a gasoline particulate filter delivers an output of 250 kW (340 PS) and 500 Nm (368.8 lb-ft) of torque (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km*: 2.7 – 2.5 (87.1 – 94.1 US mpg); combined electric power consumption in kWh/100 km*: 21.2 – 20.9; combined CO2 emissions in g/km*: 61 – 57* (98.2 – 91.7 g/mi)). It is certified according to the latest emission standard Euro 6d temp. A permanently excited synchronous machine (PSM) with a peak output of 100 kW and a peak torque of 350 Nm (258.1 lb-ft) serves as the electric drive.
It is integrated together with the clutch in the eight-gear tiptronic, which transmits the power to all four wheels via the quattro permanent all-wheel drive.

The power electronics converts the direct current from the high-voltage battery (HV) into three-phase current to power the electric motor. During recuperation, it functions as an alternator and feeds direct current back to the lithium-ion battery. The battery is positioned underneath the luggage compartment floor and consists of 104 pouch cells which are allocated to eight modules. The HV battery stores 14.1 kWh of energy and delivers a voltage of 385 V. Its cooling circuit is connected to both the coolant circuit for the air conditioning system and the low-temperature circuit, which also incorporates the electric motor and power electronics. In order to further increase energy efficiency, the standard four-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning works with the heat pump, which uses the waste heat of the high-voltage components. 

The Audi A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro delivers a system power of 330 kW (449 PS) and 700 Nm (516.3 lb-ft) of torque (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km*: 2.7 – 2.5 (87.1 – 94.1 US mpg); combined electric power consumption in kWh/100 km*: 21.2 – 20.9; combined CO2 emissions in g/km*: 61 – 57* (98.2 – 91.7 g/mi)). This high system torque is already available at 1,250 rpm, which is just above idle speed. When both motors work together in boost mode, the flagship confidently accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 4.9 seconds and reaches an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.3 mph). In accordance with the NEFZ standard, the plug-in A8 consumes just 2.5 liters (94.1 US gal) of fuel per 100 kilometers. The Audi A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro** can drive on electric power up to a speed of 135 km/h (83.9 mph), and its electric cruising range in accordance with the WLTP standard is up to 46 kilometers (28.6 mi). In many countries, its owners benefit from tax advantages or communal road privileges such as free parking or driving in the bus lane.

Intelligent drive modes and the updated predictive efficiency assistant

The driving strategy of the plug-in hybrid drive is designed such that drivers of the A8 can cover a large section of their daily journeys on electric power. The “EV” soft key in the lower of the two MMI displays allows them to decide whether and how they want to adjust the interaction of the two motors at any time. The luxury sedan with plug-in hybrid starts in “EV” mode, where it drives on purely electric power. The combustion engine is engaged only when the driver depresses the accelerator pedal beyond a specific resistance. The pressure point is variable and based on the power from the electric drive that is currently available.

“Hybrid” mode offers two operating modes: “Auto” and “Hold”. In “Auto” mode, the predictive operating strategy is activated automatically when route guidance is started in the MMI navigation plus (standard equipment). In addition, the battery charge is spread intelligently and optimally along the route, with large electric portions in the city and in stop-and-go traffic. Generally speaking, the predictive operating strategy endeavors to drive as far as possible on electric power and to use the available battery charge completely by the time the destination is reached. 

“Hold” mode pursues a different strategy: Here, the available charge state of the battery is kept at the current level with just minimal fluctuations by means of recuperation and by shifting the load point, i.e. with targeted adjustments to the management of the 3.0 TFSI. Following a long-distance journey that is driven the conventional way, for example, this allows the subsequent urban drive to be covered on purely electric power, i.e. without emissions and nearly silent.

The operating strategy of the Audi A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro** uses various pieces of data to plan the management of the drives. The main focus here is always on optimizing ride comfort and energy consumption, as well as keeping CO2emissions to a minimum. When it comes to planning long-distance journeys, the strategy takes the length and profile of the route as well as online traffic information and the driver’s driving style into account. In the short-term forecast, the standard predictive efficiency assist (PEA) system contributes information from the immediate environment taken from the navigation data, for example speed limits, types of roads and uphill and downhill gradients. The data from the camera and radar that monitor the traffic ahead is also included here. 

The phases in which the driver takes their foot off the accelerator pedal are also important for the efficiency of the Audi A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro**. The PEA takes over the regulation in such situations. In addition to the navigation data, it also takes the distance to the car in front into account and then decides between freewheeling with the engine switched off and coasting recuperation, i.e. the recovery of kinetic energy and its conversion into electric energy. The Audi flagship can recover up to 25 kW of power through coasting recuperation.

The electric motor also performs all light and medium brake operations up to 0.3 g, which make up more than 90 percent of all brake operations in everyday customer driving. It only works together with the hydraulic wheel brakes in case of heavier decelerations. Thanks to sophisticated fine tuning, the transition, also known as “blending,” between the electric and hydraulic brakes is virtually imperceptible; the brake pedal can always be modulated precisely and provides good feedback. The Audi A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro achieves up to 80 kW of recuperation power while braking. 

When the adaptive cruise control (ACC) is active, the PEA assists the driver not only with decelerating but also with fuel-efficient acceleration. If the ACC is switched off, the driver receives prompts that indicate when it would be sensible to take their foot off the right-hand pedal. The driver feels an impulse in the active accelerator pedal and sees information displayed in the Audi virtual cockpit (standard) and on the head-up display (optional). Detailed symbols, e.g. for intersections, town signs and traffic driving in front, explain the reason for the reduction in speed.

In the Audi virtual cockpit and on the display of the standard operating system MMI touch response, the driver can view a variety of information on electric driving: power meter, range and the current energy flows of the two drive units. As the central display element, the power meter provides information on the maximum electric performance as well as coasting or braking recuperation, for example.

In addition to the “EV” soft key, the driver of the A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro** has a second way of influencing the ride character: the Audi drive select system. With the “comfort,” “efficiency,” “auto,” and “dynamic” modes, the driver can select the setup of the drive, air suspension and steering. Depending on the settings, the way in which the drives work together changes when the driver depresses the accelerator pedal. When the selector lever is in position “S,” the electric motor assists the 3.0 TFSI with a very pronounced boost function to increase dynamics and agility. In this case, freewheeling in overrun mode is blocked; the electric motor thus recuperates whenever the foot is taken off the right-hand pedal.

Sound for greater safety: the acoustic vehicle alerting system

The Audi A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro** is equipped with a synthetic e-sound as standard to alert pedestrians and cyclists in city traffic. In accordance with the EU guidelines, the acoustic vehicle alerting system (AVAS) can be heard clearly up to 20 km/h (12.4 mph) and gradually fades out as the speed increases. The sound is generated by a small electronics box and output by a loudspeaker in the right wheel arch.

Convenient: charging at home and on the go

The standard equipment of the large plug-in hybrid sedan includes what is known as a mode 3 cable for public charging terminals. Audi customers in Germany can supply their homes with Volkswagen Naturstrom®, which is generated without CO2 emissions and from 100 percent renewable energy sources. Convenient recharging is also possible on the road. The proprietary Audi e-tron Charging Service provides access to more than 110,000 charging points in Europe. A single card is sufficient to start the procedure, regardless of the provider.

Charge management and pre-entry climate control from the couch: the myAudi app

The myAudi app allows customers with an Audi A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro** to use services from the Audi connect offer on their smartphones. They can also check the battery and range status, start the charging process, program the charge timer and view the charge and consumption statistics. Charging stations are shown both in the myAudi app and in the MMI navigation plus (standard equipment) in the car. Another function in the A8** plug-in hybrid version is pre-entry climate control before setting off. The electric compressor of the air conditioning system and the heater booster in the car use power from the high-voltage battery or the socket to heat or cool the interior. And there’s more: The customer can use the pre-entry climate control to activate the steering wheel, seat, mirror and front and rear window heaters as well as seat ventilation to suit their individual requirements: via the myAudi app, a timer in the vehicle or the vehicle key. 

Specific design details and state-of-the-art equipment

The elegantly flowing exterior design of the product line is complemented by subtle specific design elements in the Audi A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro**. The most eye-catching distinctive feature of the luxury sedan with plug-in hybrid drive is a light signature that is based on the Audi e-tron with purely electric drive. There are five horizontal daytime running light segments on the outer edges of the lateral air inlets in the front bumper that form a characteristic signature. There is also a chrome trim on the front bumper and chrome inlays in the door handles. The rear end is accentuated by a continuous diffuser insert and chrome clasp. The Audi A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro** is equipped as standard with exclusive 19-inch aluminum wheels whose 5-arm turbine design is optimized for aerodynamics.

The spacious interior of the Audi A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro** conveys the relaxed atmosphere of a luxurious lounge. When it comes to equipment, the possibilities are virtually unlimited. The most luxurious seat is on the passenger side in the rear: an optional relaxation seat with many possible settings and a heated footrest with a foot massage function. Audi provides more than 30 driver assist systems for the plug-in hybrid sedan which are divided into the City and Tour packages. Lighting options range up to HD matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light and OLED rear lights. 

Orders are now being accepted for the Audi A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro** at a base price in Germany of 109,000 euros. Market introduction begins in the fourth quarter of 2019.

Fuel consumption of the models listed
(Fuel consumption, CO2 emission figures and efficiency classes given in ranges depend on the tires/wheels used)

Audi A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km (US mpg): 2.7 – 2.5 (87.1 – 94.1);
Combined electric power consumption in kWh/100 km: 21.2 – 20.9;
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km (g/mi): 61 – 57 (98.2 – 91.7)

Audi A7 55 TFSI e quattro
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km (US mpg): 2.1 – 1.9 (112.0 – 123.8);
Combined electric power consumption in kWh/100 km: 18.1 – 17.5;
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km (g/mi): 48 – 44 (77.2 – 70.8)

Audi Q5 50 TFSI e quattro
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km (US mpg): 2.4 – 2.0 (98 – 117.6);
Combined electric power consumption in kWh/100 km: 18.8 – 18.1;
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km (g/mi): 54 – 46 (86.9 – 74.0)

Audi Q5 55 TFSI e quattro
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km (US mpg): 2.4 – 2.0 (98 – 117.6);
Combined electric power consumption in kWh/100 km: 19.1 – 17.5;
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km (g/mi): 54 – 46 (86.9 – 74.0)

Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com