AutoblogGreenhttp://www.autobloggreen.comAutoblogGreenhttp://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/feedlogo.gifAutoblogGreenhttp://www.autobloggreen.comen-usCopyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only.Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/http://www.autobloggreen.com/category/podcasts/rss.xmlAutoblogGreenAudi launches Facebook causes page to benefit Nature Conservancyhttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/06/25/audi-launches-facebook-causes-page-to-benefit-nature-conservancy/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/06/25/audi-launches-facebook-causes-page-to-benefit-nature-conservancy/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/06/25/audi-launches-facebook-causes-page-to-benefit-nature-conservancy/#commentsFiled under: ,

In conjunction with the launch of its diesel engines in the U.S., Audi has created a Facebook Causes page to benefit the Nature Conservancy. For every person that joins the cause, Audi has committed to donating a dollar to the Tensas River basin project where the Nature Conservancy is conducting a carbon offset program. The Tensas project involves reforestation of private lands and restoring natural habitats that have been shrinking due to human activity.

Audi has committed to donating up to $25,000 to the program. The project will buy land, plant trees and then monitor the carbon effects of all the work. The Tensas River Basin is in the lower Mississippi valley. Just head over to www.causes.com/natureconservancy to trigger another donation.

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi launches Facebook causes page to benefit Nature Conservancy

Audi launches Facebook causes page to benefit Nature Conservancy originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>audiaudi tdiAudiTdicarbon offsetcarbon offset programscarbon offsetsCarbonOffsetCarbonOffsetProgramsCarbonOffsetslower mississippi valleyLowerMississippiValleynature conservancyNatureConservancytensas river basinTensasRiverBasinSam AbuelsamidThu, 25 Jun 2009 09:32:00 ESTDiesels finish 1,2,3 again at 24 Hours of Le Mans!http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/06/15/diesels-finish-1-2-3-again-at-24-hours-of-le-mans/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/06/15/diesels-finish-1-2-3-again-at-24-hours-of-le-mans/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/06/15/diesels-finish-1-2-3-again-at-24-hours-of-le-mans/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



At this weekend's 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Peugeot 908 HDi finally broke Audi's decade long stranglehold on the endurance classic. For the past two years, Peugeot had clearly had the speed advantage over the Audi R10 TDI but the team failed to keep the cars running reliably enough to beat the more reliable and fuel-efficient Germans. This year, Audi - expecting Peugeot to up their game - introduced an all-new and faster car, the R15 TDI that won at Sebring in March. Unfortunately, the R15 hasn't run in a race since then, and when they arrived in France they didn't have either the speed of the Peugeots or the trouble-free run of past years. One of the three Audi's crashed early in the race while the others both had difficulties during the remaining 24 hours. The #9 908 of Marc Gene, David Brabham & Alexander Wurz ran largely trouble free all day and night to take the victory a lap ahead of the #8 Peugeot of Sébastien Bourdais, Franck Montagny & Stéphane Sarrazin. The lone competitive Audi of last years winners, McNish, Capello and Kristensen was 6 laps down in third place. The third Peugeot finished 6th overall and followed its sister cars across the line on Sunday afternoon.

Diesels finish 1,2,3 again at 24 Hours of Le Mans! originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 08:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>24 hours of le mans24HoursOfLeMansaudi r15audi r15 tdiaudi r15 tdi le mansAudiR15AudiR15TdiAudiR15TdiLeMansbreakingle mansLeManspeugeotpeugeot 908 hdipeugeot908hdiSam AbuelsamidMon, 15 Jun 2009 08:42:00 ESTAudi working on hybrids, saving weighthttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/06/08/audi-working-on-hybrids-saving-weight/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/06/08/audi-working-on-hybrids-saving-weight/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/06/08/audi-working-on-hybrids-saving-weight/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Audi Sportback Concept - Click above for a high-res image gallery

It's easy to focus on the electrification of the automobile as the next big step towards reducing our fossil fuel consumption, but a lot has to happen before we're all driving electric vehicles. For instance, just as is the case with gas-powered automobiles, the range and performance of EVs will at least be somewhat dependent on the overall weight of the vehicle's platform. That's probably why Michael Dick, Audi's director of technical development, is so enthusiastic about the German automaker's efforts to reduce the weight of its modular longitudinal platform, which makes up the basis for most of its passenger cars.

How much difference can a little change of weight make? According to Dick, Audi has an experimental lightweight S5 that can lap the Nürburgring eight seconds faster than the normal S5, despite having a 100 horsepower disadvantage. So important is the ongoing weight reduction that Audi is now assessing its progress on a "euros per gram of CO2 reduction" basis. In addition to going on a diet, Dick says Audi is also hard at work on hybrid and electric powertrains for its passenger cars.

Gallery: Audi Sportback Concept


[Source: Autocar]

Audi working on hybrids, saving weight originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 17:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>audiautomobile weightAutomobileWeightlight weightlight weight carslightweightLightWeightCarsJeremy KorzeniewskiMon, 08 Jun 2009 17:24:00 ESTAudi adds new 1.6-liter TDI to European A3 lineuphttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/06/02/audi-adds-new-1-6-liter-tdi-to-european-a3-lineup/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/06/02/audi-adds-new-1-6-liter-tdi-to-european-a3-lineup/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/06/02/audi-adds-new-1-6-liter-tdi-to-european-a3-lineup/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Audi A3 TDI - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi has added a pair of new 1.6-liter TDI diesel engines to its home market A3 lineup with fuel economy up to 57.4 mpg (U.S.) on the EU combined driving cycle. The engines are available in 90 hp and 105 hp forms with both of them getting new common rail injection systems. The lower power engine gets a fuel economy rating of 52.3 mpg (U.S.) and drives the A3 to 62 mph in a sedate 12.9 seconds with CO2 emissions of 118 g/km.

For the 105 hp version, Audi also includes an automatic start/stop system and brake energy regeneration. The latter function uses a smart alternator that loads up during deceleration and coasting to add to the engine braking and charge the battery. Under other conditions the alternator load is reduced and electrical systems in the car are driven off the battery. This variant achieves 57.4 mpg (U.S.) and CO2 emissions of just 109 g/km. Both engines are available in Euro A3s this month although we won't get them in the U.S. American buyers will have to make do with the 2.0 TDI late this year.


Gallery: Review: Audi A3 TDI


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Audi adds new 1.6-liter TDI to European A3 lineup

Audi adds new 1.6-liter TDI to European A3 lineup originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 19:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>audiaudi a3audi a3 tdiaudi a3 tdi 1.6AudiA3AudiA3TdiAudiA3Tdi1.6Sam AbuelsamidTue, 02 Jun 2009 19:04:00 ESTAudi shoots down electric R8 rumor for Frankfurthttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/29/audi-shoots-down-electric-r8-rumor-for-frankfurt/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/29/audi-shoots-down-electric-r8-rumor-for-frankfurt/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/29/audi-shoots-down-electric-r8-rumor-for-frankfurt/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Audi R8 V12 TDI concept - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Rumors in the European press that Audi would bring an all-electric R8 supercar (or an extended range EV that uses a diesel range extender) to the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show in September have been denied by an Audi spokesperson. The anonymous Audi representative told Inside Line simply that the stories in Auto Motor und Sport in Germany and L'Automobile in France were "not true." Instead, Audi will stick to the liquid fuel path and show off the R8 Spyder with gas engines. While we certainly don't fault Audi for sticking with what it knows, the possibility of a limited edition R8 EV challenging Tesla made for a good night's dream, anyway.

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Audi R8 V12 TDI


[Source: Inside Line]

Audi shoots down electric R8 rumor for Frankfurt originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 29 May 2009 09:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>auri r8AuriR8electric audielectric audi r8electric r8ElectricAudiElectricAudiR8ElectricR8Sebastian BlancoFri, 29 May 2009 09:38:00 ESTEuro NCAP finds small cars offer plenty of protectionhttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/28/euro-ncap-finds-small-cars-offer-plenty-of-protection/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/28/euro-ncap-finds-small-cars-offer-plenty-of-protection/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/28/euro-ncap-finds-small-cars-offer-plenty-of-protection/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Europe's crash testing authority, Euro NCAP, has published a series of new tests that includes the latest small and fuel efficient models offered there. The top scorers in the small car segment, with five star results, were the Honda Jazz, Hyundai i20 and Kia Soul. The Audi Q5 and the Peugeot 3008 also scored the maximum in their category. What Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary General of Euro NCAP, said that the findings should help combat the false feeling that only large cars are safe: "Many claim that the weight and size of a car is the only criteria for safety. We believe that there are other aspects of safety that are just as important. The smaller cars we tested whose results are released today show that size should not stand in the way of all-round safety," he said.

[Source: Euro NCAP]

Euro NCAP finds small cars offer plenty of protection originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 28 May 2009 19:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>3008altoaudi a5AudiA5crash testCrashTesteuro ncapeuroncaphonda jazzHondaJazzhyundai i20HyundaiI20i20jazzkia soulKiaSoulpeugeot 3008Peugeot3008Q5safetysoulsuzuki altoSuzukiAltoXavier NavarroThu, 28 May 2009 19:18:00 EST227 MPH Audi A4 beats Bugatti to set world record for fastest car powered by biogashttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/28/modified-audi-a4-sets-world-record-for-fastest-car-powered-by-bi/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/28/modified-audi-a4-sets-world-record-for-fastest-car-powered-by-bi/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/28/modified-audi-a4-sets-world-record-for-fastest-car-powered-by-bi/#commentsFiled under: , ,



After a few earlier attempts were unsuccessful in setting an official record, Jürgen Hohenester, a German racecar driver and automotive tuner, has finally set a new world record for reaching the fastest speed ever recorded running a vehicle on biogas. Yes, Guiness has indeed been notified. Powered by a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine that's been converted to run on the compressed gas, the silver Audi sedan was clocked at an impressive 226.55 mph (364.6 kilometers per hour). Previously, the record was held by a Bugatti that was reportedly 20 kph slower.

Amazingly, the car reportedly wasn't even running at full capacity. It seems that this particular powerplant can reliably put out over 800 horsepower, but was dialed back a few notches to around 700 horsepower to keep the all-wheel-drive Audi's transmission from showering the Papenburg, Lower Saxony, race track with a pile of gear-shaped shrapnel. One key reason the powerplant was able to make such prodigious power is because biogas carries an octane rating of over 120. Us? we like to think it was down to the BBS-aping aerodynamic wheel covers. Click past the break for the awkwardly translated press release.

[Source: Hohenester Sport]

Continue reading 227 MPH Audi A4 beats Bugatti to set world record for fastest car powered by biogas

227 MPH Audi A4 beats Bugatti to set world record for fastest car powered by biogas originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 28 May 2009 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>audiaudi a4audi a4 biogasAudiA4AudiA4Biogasbiogas world recordBiogasWorldRecordfastest biogas carfastest car powered by biogasFastestBiogasCarFastestCarPoweredByBiogasguinessJrgen HohenesterJrgenHohenesterJurgen HohenesterJurgenHohenesterworld recordWorldRecordJeremy KorzeniewskiThu, 28 May 2009 12:46:00 ESTAudi to unveil all-electric R8 supercar in Frankfurt?http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/28/audi-to-unveil-all-electric-r8-supercar-in-frankfurt/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/28/audi-to-unveil-all-electric-r8-supercar-in-frankfurt/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/28/audi-to-unveil-all-electric-r8-supercar-in-frankfurt/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Audi R8 V12 TDI concept - Click above for a high-res image gallery

According to dueling reports on Auto Motor und Sport in Germany and L'Automobile in France, Audi may be set to release an all-electric version of its awesome R8 supercar at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show. At this point, we have no other details as to what may be powering the electric R8, but there's a possibility that it may also sport a diesel engine acting as a range extender.

It's also unclear whether Audi has any intentions of putting this Tesla-fighter into small-scale series production, though we won't be holding our breath. Our best guess would be that the German automaker would only build an electric supercar to prove that it can. If that sounds far-fetched, perhaps we should direct your attention to Audi's last R8 concept vehicle...

If there's any truth to these rumors, the zero-emission supercar will join a droptop version of the R8 on stage in Frankfurt, and as you would expect, we'll be there with digital SLRs in hand. Stay tuned.

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Audi R8 V12 TDI


[Source: Auto Motor und Sport, L'Automobile]

Audi to unveil all-electric R8 supercar in Frankfurt? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 28 May 2009 08:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>audiaudi r8audi r8 electricaudi r8 evAudiR8AudiR8ElectricAudiR8Evelectric audi r8ElectricAudiR8Jeremy KorzeniewskiThu, 28 May 2009 08:03:00 ESTClarkson on the Audi Q7 V12 TDI: It's crap and it's brilliant!http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/26/clarkson-on-the-audi-q7-v12-tdi-its-crap-and-its-brilliant/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/26/clarkson-on-the-audi-q7-v12-tdi-its-crap-and-its-brilliant/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/26/clarkson-on-the-audi-q7-v12-tdi-its-crap-and-its-brilliant/#commentsFiled under: ,


Audi Q7 V12 TDI - click above for a high res gallery

Last year, Audi announced the most insane version of the Q7 SUV yet in the form of the Q7 V12 TDI. The V12 is an all-new engine diesel engine that, for now at least, only has a home in the Q7 but at some future date it may appear in some other VW group products (think Bentley). The V12 produces 500 hp and a ridiculous 758 lb-ft of torque, enough to get the 2.5 ton SUV to 62 mph in 5.5 seconds.

While Audi has said it has no plans to bring the V12 Q7 to America, Jeremy Clarkson got to try one out and came away with mixed feelings. Like many people, Clarkson is no fan of the Q7's looks and thinks the whole premise of this vehicle is ridiculous. On the other hand brute force does have a way of twisting people's opinions and this big Audi is no exception.

Generally, any sporting motorcycle can leave a four wheeled conveyance in the dust. Apparently, this Q7 is the exception as Clarkson was supposedly able to keep pace with Top Gear co-host Richard Hammond on a Suzuki Hayabusa. Even with all this power, the V12 TDI is still rated at 21 mpg (U.S.) on the EU combined cycle. In Clarkson's own words "Mad. Bonkers. Stupid. [...] It's crap. But it's brilliant too." Too bad they canceled the R8 with this engine.

Gallery: 2008 Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro


[Source: The Times of London]

Clarkson on the Audi Q7 V12 TDI: It's crap and it's brilliant! originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 26 May 2009 14:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>audi q7audi q7 dieselaudi q7 tdiaudi q7 v12 tdiAudiQ7AudiQ7DieselAudiQ7TdiAudiQ7V12Tdijeremy clarksonJeremyClarksonSam AbuelsamidTue, 26 May 2009 14:03:00 ESTReview: 2010 Audi A3 TDI, diesel with a healthy dash of sporthttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/21/review-2010-audi-a3-tdi-diesel-with-a-healthy-dash-of-sport/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/21/review-2010-audi-a3-tdi-diesel-with-a-healthy-dash-of-sport/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/21/review-2010-audi-a3-tdi-diesel-with-a-healthy-dash-of-sport/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Audi A3 TDI - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi started its big push for clean diesel here in the U.S. market this spring when its big Q7 TDI finally went on sale. While the Q7 TDI is one of the most fuel efficient seven-passenger SUVs available anywhere, it's only the beginning for Audi. Assuming that Americans start taking a shine to diesel, Audi is likely to introduce a whole series of Rudi D's disciples here. So far, however, only one has been announced in addition to the Q7, the compact A3 hatchback.

The A3 is the entry-level model for the four-ringed brand here in the U.S. Until now, it has only been sold with a choice of a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder or 3.2-liter V6 engines running on gasoline. At the Detroit Auto Show, Audi announced that the A3 TDI would go on sale late this year. While the A3 TDI isn't yet available, one was made available to us for five days during a recent trip to Southern California. Find out what it was like after the jump.

Gallery: Review: Audi A3 TDI


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2010 Audi A3 TDI, diesel with a healthy dash of sport

Review: 2010 Audi A3 TDI, diesel with a healthy dash of sport originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 21 May 2009 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>a3a3 tdiA3Tdiaudiaudi a3 tdiAudiA3Tdidieseldiesel audiDieselAudifeaturefeaturedfeatured storiesfeaturedstoriesfeaturesreviewSam AbuelsamidThu, 21 May 2009 11:59:00 ESTAudi: Q5 Hybrid coming "in the near future," affordable EVs years awayhttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/17/audi-q5-hybrid-coming-in-the-near-future-affordable-evs-year/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/17/audi-q5-hybrid-coming-in-the-near-future-affordable-evs-year/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/17/audi-q5-hybrid-coming-in-the-near-future-affordable-evs-year/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Audi held its annual meeting in Neckarsulm, Germany last week and, as typically happens at such events, the boss got up to say a few words. In this case, CEO and Chairman of the Management Board Rupert Stadler spoke and gave the usual run down on the state of the business. He also discussed some future product plans including alternative drive vehicles. Stadler reiterated that Audi is collaborating with Sanyo on advanced battery technology. Stadler also answered the question of what might become of those batteries.

Audi's on again-off again hybrid program appears to be back on again and it looks like the new Q5 mid-size crossover will be the first application. Previously, we've been told by Audi officials that a Q5 hybrid would launch sometime later in 2010 and Stadler confirmed that it is coming in the "near future."

Audi will also continue developing its turbocharged and direct injected gas and diesel engines for the foreseeable future as well as reducing the mass of the vehicles they are mounted in. While Audi will make efforts to build the company's knowledge base of electric propulsion, Stadler declared that it will years before affordable electric vehicles that meet mainstream customer needs are available. The company's release of the second half of the speech, where Stadler discussed these issues, is available after the jump.

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi: Q5 Hybrid coming "in the near future," affordable EVs years away

Audi: Q5 Hybrid coming "in the near future," affordable EVs years away originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sun, 17 May 2009 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>audiaudi q5 hybridaudi q5 hybrid 2010AudiQ5HybridAudiQ5Hybrid2010electric carelectric carselectric vehicleElectricCarElectricCarsElectricVehiclerupert stadlerrupert stadler audiRupertStadlerRupertStadlerAudiSam AbuelsamidSun, 17 May 2009 14:12:00 ESTAudi announces introduction of stop/start technologyhttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/08/audi-announces-introduction-of-stop-start-technology/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/08/audi-announces-introduction-of-stop-start-technology/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/08/audi-announces-introduction-of-stop-start-technology/#commentsFiled under: ,


Audi stop/start technology - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Audi has just announced that it's rolling out a new stop/start system in Europe beginning in the second-quarter of 2009. The first cars to be equipped with the fuel-saving technology will be the A3 with the 1.4 TFSI engine and the A4 and A5 with Audi's 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, though at first only when equipped with a manual transmission. According to the German automaker, numerous models are scheduled to follow later this year. Current estimates indicate that the addition of Audi's stop/start system will lower fuel consumption by about .2 liters per 100 kilometers driven and reduce carbon emissions by about 5 grams per kilometer.

To go along with the new stop/start technology, Audi has also launched an on-board computer system that will feature something called the efficiency program. This computer will monitor the driver's habits and recommend new tactics to reduce fuel consumption. These two new systems join Audi's energy recovery system, which captures energy normally lost to braking and therefore reduces strain on the engine from the alternator. All told, Audi expects to improve overall vehicle efficiency some 20 percent by the year 2012.

Gallery: Audi stop/start technology


[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi announces introduction of stop/start technology

Audi announces introduction of stop/start technology originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 08 May 2009 15:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>audiaudi stop startAudiStopStartstop startstop-startStopStartJeremy KorzeniewskiFri, 08 May 2009 15:51:00 ESTAudi working on A3 Hybrid with TwinDrivehttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/06/audi-working-on-a3-hybrid-with-twindrive/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/06/audi-working-on-a3-hybrid-with-twindrive/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/06/audi-working-on-a3-hybrid-with-twindrive/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Volkswagen Golf TwinDrive - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Last summer, Volkswagen introduced the world to its new TwinDrive hybrid technology, which paired an electric motor connected to the rear wheels with a small turbodiesel engine that powered the front wheels. The all-wheel drive hybrid powertrain is currently being tested in VW's latest Golf model, and a new report from Autocar in the UK suggests that Audi is working on installing the fuel-saving bits in its next-gen A3 as well, with the goal of getting the car in fleet use by 2012.

The internal combustion engine portion of the drivetrain will consist of a 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which will power the front wheels only while a 30kW electric motor will feed electrons provided by a 12 kWh lithium ion battery pack to the rear wheels. The car will feature plug-in capability, naturally, and a full charge will reportedly allow for an EV-only range of 31 miles. All told, average fuel consumption is pegged at over 113 miles per gallon equivalent, though that's likely on the EU combined cycle and can't be directly compared with U.S. EPA figures.

Gallery: MK VI Golf Twin Drive


[Source: Autocar]

Audi working on A3 Hybrid with TwinDrive originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 06 May 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>audi a3audi a3 hybridaudi a3 twin driveaudi a3 twindriveAudiA3AudiA3HybridAudiA3Twindrivevolkswagenvolkswagen golf hybridvolkswagen golf twin drivevolkswagen golf twindriveVolkswagenGolfHybridVolkswagenGolfTwinDriveJeremy KorzeniewskiWed, 06 May 2009 14:01:00 ESTAudi investing $1B to create new, greener dealerships for U.S.http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/05/audi-investing-1b-to-create-new-greener-dealerships-for-u-s/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/05/audi-investing-1b-to-create-new-greener-dealerships-for-u-s/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/05/audi-investing-1b-to-create-new-greener-dealerships-for-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click for complete gallery

Audi thinks that the same experience customers feel when entering one of their cars should be felt when entering a dealership, from "flowers to coffee cups." This is the reason why the marque based in Ingolstadt wants to create 30 "terminal" dealerships in the U.S. that combine the "efficiency, performance, luxury and environmental themes the brand has become known for." The environmental part of this new architecture comes from a global design that consolidates space, limits wasted areas and increases the use of natural light to save energy. The project was designed by Münich-based architecture office Allmann Sattler Wappner. Every dealership will apply individually for a LEED certification. Find the complete press release after the jump

Gallery: Audi's new greener dealerships


[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi investing $1B to create new, greener dealerships for U.S.

Audi investing $1B to create new, greener dealerships for U.S. originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 05 May 2009 08:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>Allmann Sattler WappnerAllmannSattlerWappneraudi dealerAudiDealerdealershipgreen dealershipGreenDealershipleedleed certificationLeedCertificationXavier NavarroTue, 05 May 2009 08:46:00 ESTRendered speculation: Audi E1 electric micro carhttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/30/rendered-speculation-audi-e1-electric-micro-car/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/30/rendered-speculation-audi-e1-electric-micro-car/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/30/rendered-speculation-audi-e1-electric-micro-car/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

When the Volkswagen Group starts building its "new small family" NSF micro cars in a couple of years, there will be variants for most of its mainstream brands. That includes Audi, which is likely to use the ultra compact platform to kick off a new E series of models starting with the E1. The E1 will be built with other NSF models at Volkswagen's Bratislava, Slovakia factory.

While the E-series cars will be aimed at maximizing efficiency, they will still offer a variety of powerplants including turbocharged 600 cc two cylinder engines running on either gas or diesel. Those will be joined by both hybrid and all-electric versions using lithium polymer batteries.

The original VW up! concept was a four-seater (barely!) but the production model may only be a 2+1 or perhaps 3+1 like the Toyota iQ. The 600 cc E1 should easily get CO2 emissions of under 100 g/km when it launches in 2011.

Gallery: Volkswagen up! concept


[Source: AutoExpress]

Rendered speculation: Audi E1 electric micro car originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 30 Apr 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>audi e1AudiE1rendered speculationrendered-speculationRenderedSpeculationSam AbuelsamidThu, 30 Apr 2009 16:31:00 ESTAudi could be back in ALMS full time in 2010 http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/27/audi-could-be-back-in-alms-full-time-in-2010/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/27/audi-could-be-back-in-alms-full-time-in-2010/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/27/audi-could-be-back-in-alms-full-time-in-2010/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Audi R15 TDI - Click above for a high-res gallery

The dismal economic conditions over the past nine months caused Audi to withdraw its long-running full time effort from the American Le Mans Series this year just as an all new race car was debuting. So far, Audi's R15 TDI has only appeared on the track once, at the 12 Hours of Sebring and currently is only scheduled to run at Le Mans. The R15 took both the overall victory and the Green Challenge victory at Sebring.

Audi of America president Johan de Nysschen understands the value of racing to Audi's promotional efforts and would like the R15s to compete full time in 2010. Before that can happen, the finances have to improve. Earlier this year there were rumors that the R15 might also run at the last two ALMS races of the year, the Petit Le Mans and Laguna Seca events. Audi has denied these plans, but if things pick up in the coming months, it could still happen.

de Nysschen told Autoweek that the company plans to return to the ALMS if the economy improves and is keeping team members working so that they are prepared.

Gallery: Audi R15 TDI


[Source: AutoWeek]

Audi could be back in ALMS full time in 2010 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 27 Apr 2009 08:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>almsamerican le mansamerican le mans ser...american le mans seriesamerican le mans series green challengeAmericanLeMansAmericanLeMansSer...AmericanLeMansSeriesAmericanLeMansSeriesGreenChallengeaudiaudi r15audi r15 tdiaudi r15 tdi le mansAudiR15AudiR15TdiAudiR15TdiLeMansJohan de NysschenJohanDeNysschenSam AbuelsamidMon, 27 Apr 2009 08:43:00 ESTAudi announces production of the Q3, looking for low-CO<sub>2</sub> helphttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/23/audi-announces-the-production-of-the-q3/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/23/audi-announces-the-production-of-the-q3/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/23/audi-announces-the-production-of-the-q3/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Audi's new subcompact crossover, the Q3, will be built in Seat's plant in Martorell, near Barcelona, in Spain. After a €100 million subsidy from Spanish institutions, the plant will be able to keep 1,200 jobs. Production will begin in 2011 with an annual production capacity of up to 80,000 units. The Q3 is the smallest of Audi's SUVs, coming in under the Q7 and the Q5. According to Audi, the Q3 is a "coupé-like five-door SUV with seat positions, wheel size, and ground clearance characteristic of a typical SUV" that is intended to offer "supremely sporty driving experience." The Q3 is aimed to be a competitor to BMW's X1 and will help lower the CO2 average figure of the German manufacturer. The picture above shows the Cross Concept. Full press release after the jump.

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi announces production of the Q3, looking for low-CO2 help

Audi announces production of the Q3, looking for low-CO2 help originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 23 Apr 2009 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>audiaudi q3AudiQ3q3Xavier NavarroThu, 23 Apr 2009 11:02:00 ESTSpeeding down the Autobahn burning not quite as much gasoline as beforehttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/20/speeding-down-the-autobahn-burning-not-quite-as-much-gasoline-as/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/20/speeding-down-the-autobahn-burning-not-quite-as-much-gasoline-as/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/20/speeding-down-the-autobahn-burning-not-quite-as-much-gasoline-as/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,



If you're a diesel hater and you want to cruise down a German highway in style, there's nothing like a good coupé to fit the bill. European coupés offer comfort, sporty sensations and, usually, a paying a high price at the pump. But there's good news: the European market offers models that are low on carbon emissions and have decent fuel economy while still offering the refinement typically found on models with larger engines. Unfortunately, most of the models can't be found stateside but there's always hope that some might reach American shores. We found a list, which you can find after the jump, of the most fuel-efficient version of current European coupés. Enjoy.

[Source: Auto News]

Continue reading Speeding down the Autobahn burning not quite as much gasoline as before

Speeding down the Autobahn burning not quite as much gasoline as before originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 10:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>coupecoupeseuropean coupeseuropean modelsEuropeanCoupesEuropeanModelslow consumption coupeslow-consumption coupesLow-consumptionCoupesLowConsumptionCoupesXavier NavarroMon, 20 Apr 2009 10:19:00 ESTAudi prices Q7 TDI, qualifies for $1,150 tax credithttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/09/audi-prices-q7-tdi-qualifies-for-1-150-tax-credit/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/09/audi-prices-q7-tdi-qualifies-for-1-150-tax-credit/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/09/audi-prices-q7-tdi-qualifies-for-1-150-tax-credit/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Audi has just announced the price for its new Q7 TDI SUV here in America. The 2009 Audi Q7 TDI Premium will carry a base price of $50,900, plus a destination charge of $825, taxes, title and dealer charges. That's a pretty hefty sum, but it might be made (very) slightly more palatable by a $1,150 Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit, which the IRS has granted the machine due to its fuel savings over a comparable gas-powered model. For what it's worth, the standard Q7 comes with a 3.6L gasoline V6 and starts at $43,500.

Audi's 50-state-legal 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel puts out 240 hp and, more importantly, 406 lb-ft of torque, so its ability to move the mammoth Q7 at high rates of speed is not in question. We are a little surprised by the Q7 TDI's official EPA fuel mileage rating of 17 city and 25 mpg highway, as previous estimates had put the city mileage at 19. We took part in a cross-country trip sponsored by Audi last year where the Q7 TDI averaged mileage figures in the low-20s to low-30s. This proves, once again, that your mileage may vary. Full press release after the break.

Gallery: ABG Garage: Audi Q7 TDI 4.2


[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi prices Q7 TDI, qualifies for $1,150 tax credit

Audi prices Q7 TDI, qualifies for $1,150 tax credit originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 09 Apr 2009 13:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>audiaudi q7audi q7 dieselaudi q7 tdiaudi q7 tdi priceaudi q7 tdi tax creditAudiQ7AudiQ7DieselAudiQ7TdiAudiQ7TdiPriceAudiQ7TdiTaxCreditJeremy KorzeniewskiThu, 09 Apr 2009 13:38:00 ESTAudi says racing improves the clean diesel breedhttp://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/02/audi-says-racing-improves-the-clean-diesel-breed/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/02/audi-says-racing-improves-the-clean-diesel-breed/http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/04/02/audi-says-racing-improves-the-clean-diesel-breed/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click above for a high res gallery of the Audi R15 TDI

There's an old line that "racing improves the breed" that goes back to the origins of the industry. Indeed, many innovations developed on the race track have made their way back to road going cars including rear view mirrors and fuel injection. Someday, there might even be an innovation in NASCAR, but that's another story. Over the last two decades, Audi has been particularly active in motorsports, first in rallying- where its Quattro all wheel drive was spawned - and later on race tracks - where it debuted gasoline direct injection on the R8. Most recently, the R10 and the R15 have taken diesel technology to new heights with three consecutive wins at Le Mans.

Audi's now using that racing success to boost its first U.S. clean diesel vehicle, the Q7 TDI, which is finally going on sale about now. Last fall, in the cross country Mileage Marathon, the 50-state legal Q7s averaged about 29 mpg, far more than any of the big hybrid SUVs can manage. Yes, diesel contains more carbon than gasoline but the 30 percent improvement in efficiency far outweighs the extra carbon content and still yields about a 25 percent cut in CO2 emissions. While even clean diesels also produce more NOx than current gasoline engines, they are a huge improvement over they were and the particulate filters like those used on the race cars eliminate the soot.

Gallery: Audi R15 TDI


[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi says racing improves the clean diesel breed

Audi says racing improves the clean diesel breed originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 02 Apr 2009 10:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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]]>audiaudi diesel racingaudi r10audi r10 tdiaudi r10 tdi le mansaudi r15audi r15 tdiAudiDieselRacingAudiR10AudiR10TdiAudiR10TdiLeMansAudiR15AudiR15TdiSam AbuelsamidThu, 02 Apr 2009 10:09:00 EST