High- and ultra high-strength steels comprise roughly two-thirds of the Audi A1 Sportback's body. The strongest of these are the hot-shaped steels, which are used primarily in the occupant cell. A large temperature increase during the shaping process lends them their extremely high tensile strength. Hot-shaped steels make thinner walls and thus a lower weight possible.
The lightweight body lays the groundwork for the low gross weight - the Audi A1 Sportback 1.2 TFSI tips the scales at just 1,065 kilograms (2,347.92 lb). The body is also very rigid and impact-resistant yet quiet on the road. The product of these strengths is the outstanding driving sensation of the compact Audi. Sportily precise and free of vibrations and intrusive noise, it is reminiscent of cars from a larger class.
The Audi A1 Sportback is available with a choice of six four-cylinder engines: three TFSI and three TDI units. All of the engines follow the downsizing principle - they substitute forced induction for displacement and draw their fuel through direct injection units. All versions except the 1.6 TDI with S tronic and the most powerful gasoline engine are equipped with a start-stop system.
The base engine, the 1.2 TFSI, produces 63 kW (86 hp). Particularly effective thermal management contributes to its low fuel consumption of 5.1 liters per 100 km (46.12 US mpg). The two 1.4-liter TFSI engines produce 90 kW (122 hp) and 136 kW (185 hp). The top-of-the-line gasoline engine is supercharged and turbocharged, resulting in 250 Nm (184.39 lb-ft) of torque, a zero-to-100 km/h (62.14 mph) time of 7.0 seconds and a top speed of 227 km/h (141.05 mph).
Three TDI units round out the lineup. The 1.6-liter engine is available in two different versions, with 66 kW (90 hp) and 77 kW (105 hp). When paired with a manual transmission, both versions consume just 3.8 liters of fuel per 100 km (61.90 US mpg) on average, which corresponds to only 99 grams of CO2/km (159.33 g/mile). The 105 kW (143 hp) 2.0 TDI to follow later accelerates the Audi A1 Sportback to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 8.5 seconds, yet its average fuel consumption is just 4.1 liters of fuel per 100 km (57.37 US mpg).
The transmission also underscores the high-tech character of the Audi A1 Sportback and its special position in the compact segment. Audi offers the seven-speed S tronic as an option with the 1.4 TFSI with 90 kW (122 hp) and 1.6 TDI with 66 kW (90 hp); it comes standard with the top TFSI model with 136 kW (185 hp). The dual-clutch transmission shifts comfortably, extremely quickly and with no perceptible interruption to the flow of power. The two clutches do not need a separate oil supply, making the S tronic even more efficient.
The driver can let the seven-speed S tronic, which also includes a hill hold assist, shift automatically or control it manually. Shift paddles on the steering wheel are available as an option. The manual transmissions - with a five-speed or six-speed gearbox depending on the engine - also offer the perfect combination of sportiness and efficiency.
The new Audi A4's drive system sets new standards. The consumption levels have dropped by 11 percent on average, despite the increased power and torque of many of the engines. In the Sedan and the Avant each, Audi offers any of six TDI and four gasoline engines, with 23 possible engine-transmission combinations. All engines are supercharged direct-injection systems; the start-stop system and the recuperation system are standard throughout.
The TDI engines combine pulling power with pioneering efficiency, with the four-cylinder versions presenting extensive modifications. A new centrifugal pendulum-type absorber (in the 2.0 TDI with 100 kW, 120 kW or 130 kW with quattro drive) in the dual-mass flywheel makes engine running even more refined and quieter at low revs, for even earlier upshifting and savings of up to 0.2 liters per 100 km.
The most economical variant in the model family is the Audi A4 2.0 TDI with 100 kW (136 hp). In the Sedan, this engine needs only 4.2 liters of fuel per 100 km (56.0 US mpg) on average - a CO2 equivalent of just 112 grams per km (180.25 g/mile). The new A4 2.0 TDI with 120 kW (163 hp), also optimized for maximum efficiency, manages with 4.4 liters of diesel per 100 km (53.46 US mpg). This equates to 115 grams CO2 per km (185.07 g/mile). Both engines are available for the Sedan and the Avant.
In addition, three other four-cylinder diesel engines are available - with 88 kW (120 hp), 105 kW (143 hp) and 130 kW (177 hp). They can also be ordered for the allroad quattro, apart from the entry-level version. Three V6 TDI units complete the line. The 3.0 TDI with 150 kW (204 hp) (not for the allroad quattro) is the most efficient six-cylinder engine in its class worldwide; in the A4 Sedan it consumes an average of just 4.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (48.0 US mpg). The second variant, the 3.0 TDI, generates 180 kW (245 hp), with an especially clean diesel version.
The Audi A4 series also presents the latest state of the art in gasoline engine technology. A new highlight of the TFSI family is the new 1.8-liter engine, available for the Sedan and the Avant. The four-cylinder engine delivers sporty thrust, with a power output of 125 kW (170 hp) and 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft) of torque. The average consumption in the Audi A4 Sedan is limited to 5.6 liters per 100 km (42.0 US mpg), or 134 grams CO2 per km (215.65 g/mile). That is a decrease in consumption of 19 percent compared with the predecessor engine.
The new 1.8 TFSI engine features many innovations: in the control of its valves and their lift, in the novel thermal management system, in the fuel injection system, in the turbocharger and in the integration of the exhaust manifold in the cylinder head. The engine weighs 3.5 kilograms (7.72 lb) less and its internal friction has sharply decreased.
The entry-level gasoline engine is the 1.8 TFSI with 88 kW (120 hp). The 2.0 TFSI - as the only spark-ignition engine also available in the Audi A4 allroad quattro - delivers 155 kW (211 hp). At the top of the line is the 3.0 TFSI in two variants. In the Audi A4 the V6, to follow a bit later, affords 200 kW (272 hp). In the sporty Audi S4 top model its power is an impressive 245 kW (333 hp).
Drivetrain
The wide range of drivetrains is typical of Audi. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the Sedan and Avant models with front-wheel drive; most variants offer continuously variable multitronic as an option. The quattro versions have either the manual transmission or (as of the 2.0 TDI with 130 kW (177 hp)) the seven-speed S tronic on board. The Audi A4 allroad quattro employs a manual transmission or S tronic with all engine versions.
The innovative thermal management system shortens the warm-up phase of the manual transmission, among other things, and thereby reduces friction loss. All transmissions are distinguished by convenient and precise operation, high efficiency and a wide spread of gear ratios - the long ratios in the higher gears reduces fuel consumption, while the short ratios in the lower gears benefit the dynamics.
The quattro permanent all-wheel drive is standard on the Audi A4 allroad quattro, and available in the Sedan and Avant from the 2.0 TDI with 105 kW (143 hp). The A4 family uses the self-locking center differential here. In regular driving operation it primarily transmits the engine torque to the rear wheels in the ratio of 40 to 60. If necessary, redistribution occurs within the shortest possible time. The torque vectoring function supplements the work of the center differential with finely incremented brake applications, to make handling even more precise and safer.
In the V6 quattro variants Audi offers the sport differential as a supplement, lending maximum precision and high traction to the A4 when cornering at the handling limits. The high-end component actively distributes the power between the rear wheels as required.
The new Audi A4's drive system sets new standards. The consumption levels have dropped by 11 percent on average, despite the increased power and torque of many of the engines. In the Sedan and the Avant each, Audi offers any of six TDI and four gasoline engines, with 23 possible engine-transmission combinations. All engines are supercharged direct-injection systems; the start-stop system and the recuperation system are standard throughout.
The TDI engines combine pulling power with pioneering efficiency, with the four-cylinder versions presenting extensive modifications. A new centrifugal pendulum-type absorber (in the 2.0 TDI with 100 kW, 120 kW or 130 kW with quattro drive) in the dual-mass flywheel makes engine running even more refined and quieter at low revs, for even earlier upshifting and savings of up to 0.2 liters per 100 km.
The most economical variant in the model family is the Audi A4 2.0 TDI with 100 kW (136 hp). In the Sedan, this engine needs only 4.2 liters of fuel per 100 km (56.0 US mpg) on average - a CO2 equivalent of just 112 grams per km (180.25 g/mile). The new A4 2.0 TDI with 120 kW (163 hp), also optimized for maximum efficiency, manages with 4.4 liters of diesel per 100 km (53.46 US mpg). This equates to 115 grams CO2 per km (185.07 g/mile). Both engines are available for the Sedan and the Avant.
In addition, three other four-cylinder diesel engines are available - with 88 kW (120 hp), 105 kW (143 hp) and 130 kW (177 hp). They can also be ordered for the allroad quattro, apart from the entry-level version. Three V6 TDI units complete the line. The 3.0 TDI with 150 kW (204 hp) (not for the allroad quattro) is the most efficient six-cylinder engine in its class worldwide; in the A4 Sedan it consumes an average of just 4.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (48.0 US mpg). The second variant, the 3.0 TDI, generates 180 kW (245 hp), with an especially clean diesel version.
The Audi A4 series also presents the latest state of the art in gasoline engine technology. A new highlight of the TFSI family is the new 1.8-liter engine, available for the Sedan and the Avant. The four-cylinder engine delivers sporty thrust, with a power output of 125 kW (170 hp) and 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft) of torque. The average consumption in the Audi A4 Sedan is limited to 5.6 liters per 100 km (42.0 US mpg), or 134 grams CO2 per km (215.65 g/mile). That is a decrease in consumption of 19 percent compared with the predecessor engine.
The new 1.8 TFSI engine features many innovations: in the control of its valves and their lift, in the novel thermal management system, in the fuel injection system, in the turbocharger and in the integration of the exhaust manifold in the cylinder head. The engine weighs 3.5 kilograms (7.72 lb) less and its internal friction has sharply decreased.
The entry-level gasoline engine is the 1.8 TFSI with 88 kW (120 hp). The 2.0 TFSI - as the only spark-ignition engine also available in the Audi A4 allroad quattro - delivers 155 kW (211 hp). At the top of the line is the 3.0 TFSI in two variants. In the Audi A4 the V6, to follow a bit later, affords 200 kW (272 hp). In the sporty Audi S4 top model its power is an impressive 245 kW (333 hp).
The wide range of drivetrains is typical of Audi. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the Sedan and Avant models with front-wheel drive; most variants offer continuously variable multitronic as an option. The quattro versions have either the manual transmission or (as of the 2.0 TDI with 130 kW (177 hp)) the seven-speed S tronic on board. The Audi A4 allroad quattro employs a manual transmission or S tronic with all engine versions.
The innovative thermal management system shortens the warm-up phase of the manual transmission, among other things, and thereby reduces friction loss. All transmissions are distinguished by convenient and precise operation, high efficiency and a wide spread of gear ratios - the long ratios in the higher gears reduces fuel consumption, while the short ratios in the lower gears benefit the dynamics.
The quattro permanent all-wheel drive is standard on the Audi A4 allroad quattro, and available in the Sedan and Avant from the 2.0 TDI with 105 kW (143 hp). The A4 family uses the self-locking center differential here. In regular driving operation it primarily transmits the engine torque to the rear wheels in the ratio of 40 to 60. If necessary, redistribution occurs within the shortest possible time. The torque vectoring function supplements the work of the center differential with finely incremented brake applications, to make handling even more precise and safer.
In the V6 quattro variants Audi offers the sport differential as a supplement, lending maximum precision and high traction to the A4 when cornering at the handling limits. The high-end component actively distributes the power between the rear wheels as required.
In terms of styling, the RS5 features an aggressive body kit, a reduced ride height (20mm/0.79" lower the Audi A5), and 19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels (20-inchers are optional). Other highlights include twin oval exhaust pipes (which are integrated in the rear bumper), a large diffuser, and a rear spoiler which automatically extends at 120 km/h (75 mph) and retracts at 80 km/h (50 mph).
Power comes from a 4.2-liter V8 that produces 331 kW (444 hp / 450 PS) and 430 Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a seven-speed S tronic transmission which allows the 1,725 kilogram (3,803 pound) coupe to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, before topping out at an electronically limited 250 km/h (155 mph). If that isn't fast enough, Audi can remove the speed limiter to enable the car to hit 280 km/h (174 mph). Despite this immense performance, the RS5 only consumes 10.8 liters of petrol per 100 km (21.78 US mpg).
Compared to the 354 hp 4.2-liter V8 in the S5 (which will soon be replaced by a supercharged 3.0-liter V6), the RS5 engine features friction reduction technology, "intensive fine-tuning of the dual-branch intake", and a new exhaust system.
To enhance the car's handling, Audi installed a new crown-gear center differential. The self-locking crown-gear "can widely vary the distribution of torque between the front and rear axles. If necessary, up to 70 percent can flow to the front or as much as 85 percent toward the tail end." When extra traction isn't required, the unit has a 40:60 rear-biased configuration. According to Audi, "This new differential operates in conjunction with electronic torque vectoring, which affects all four wheels. If one of the inside wheels becomes imbalanced while the vehicle is at its operational limits, then the system slightly decelerates the wheel to obviate wheel spin. This results in terrific traction on the one hand while generating a yaw moment which aids cornering."
Other performance tweaks include a revised braking system (ceramic carbon-fiber brakes are optional), a modified electronic stabilization program (which can be turned off completely), and a recalibrated speed-dependent servotronic steering system (dynamic steering is optional).
Thanks to Vorsprung durch Technik, making the choice between the Audi A6 Avant’s petrol and diesel engines isn’t as straightforward as it used to be. Engines of both fuel types offer improved power, lower emissions, sporty performance and increased efficiency. Do you prefer the high-torque pulling power of a diesel or the increased response of a petrol engine?
The choice is yours.
TFSI technology available in the Audi A6 Avant unlocks superior power, more dynamic performance and better economy from petrol engines. In fact, compared with many naturally aspirated engines with more cylinders, TFSI delivers the same sporty performance but using 10 to 15% less fuel.
FSI and turbocharging technology work so well together because the evaporation of fuel in the combustion chamber cools the intake air giving higher compression, improved engine efficiency and, in turn, lower CO2 emissions of the A6 Avant.
Designed to improve both comfort andA dedication to pioneering technology has brought Audi peerless expertise in turbocharged diesel engines. All Audi TDI engines are equipped with common rail and piezo injectors to achieve smooth, efficient and quiet combustion. Diesel fuel related emissions are also significantly reduced thanks to a diesel particulate filter, fitted as standard to all A6 Avant diesels, which filters out almost all soot particles contained in the exhaust gas.
The turbocharger has variable turbine vane geometry to help produce higher torque and greater power for the cubic capacity of the engine. And sophisticated air-flow control also contributes to the A6 Avant’s engine’s capabilities while simultaneously reducing nitrogen oxide emissions.
efficiency of the A6 Avant, the optional adaptive air suspension adjusts according to driving conditions and roads.
For example the TDI engine fitted to the 3.0TDI quattro A6 Avant generates 245PS and 500Nm of torque, enough to propel it’s occupants from 0 – 62mph in just 6.3 seconds.
Driving long-distances, the ‘Comfort’ setting adjusts the suspension to create a supremely comfortable ride. ‘Dynamic’ changes the settings for a sportier driving experience, lowering the height of the car; also reducing drag thus improving fuel efficiency. Whilst ‘Automatic’ is the ideal setting for everyday A6 driving.
As much of the Audi A6 Avant as possible is made from aluminium - including elements of the doors, the bonnet, the tailgate and the wings.
Improved efficiency and enhanced handling are just two benefits of lightweight construction.
But this efficiency does not come at the expense of safety. Throughout the A6 Avant's body, specific zones requiring reinforcement have panels of varying thickness ensuring strength in the event of a collision.
All this ensures that the Audi A6 Avant has maximum performance and efficiency with no detrimental effect to safety.
A hydraulically operated wet clutch links the 2.0 TFSI with the electric motor. Its control requires the utmost precision, and a great deal of know-how has been expended to achieve its smooth, precise and swift operation. The synchronous motor, which is continually excited, also serves as a generator that develops 45 hp of power and 155 lb-ft of torque. Its full power is available practically right from standstill and contributes to a sportily powerful start-up. Since an electric motor also develops heat, its housing is furnished with cooling ducts. Interposed between the electric motor and the wheelset of the eight-speed tiptronic, which is controlled entirely by electronics, is an additional cut-out clutch. In conjunction with the electric unit, this functions as a torque converter. The propulsive power of both drive systems is applied to the road through the front wheels.
Lithium-ion technology – the battery
The energy storage system of the Audi A8 hybrid is mounted in the rear section. This state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery is more compact and weighs less than other types but is substantially more powerful. It is protected by a high-strength housing, and a ventilation module ensures that it always operated within the ideal temperature range. Yet the A8 hybrid also provides ample luggage space of 14 cubic feet
Several subsystems that operate on engine power in a conventional car have been modified right from the start for use in the Audi A8 hybrid. The compressor in the climate control system runs entirely on electric power. The steering system is electromechanical as well. The brake booster too is supplied by a demand-controlled electric vacuum pump. During electrical – i.e. recuperative – braking actions, a sophisticated control system ensures that the ABS and ESP functions operate properly.
The power electronics unit manages the interaction of the systems. Its pulse control inverter regulates the interplay of the battery and the electric motor. The DC-DC converter supplies power to users on the onboard network. The power electronics unit, which is connected to the battery and the electric motor by high-voltage cables, is located in the engine compartment.
The smooth interaction of these components and their high level of integration attest to the specialized know-how Audi has accumulated. The technology architecture already provides a glimpse of a future production model – the Audi Q5 hybrid, which will be introduced later this year.
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Power like a big V6, fuel economy like a modest four-cylinder unit – Audi presents the A8 hybrid as a technology concept at the Geneva Motor Show. Its two propulsion units – a 2.0 TFSI® and an electric motor – develop a total output of 245 hp of system power and 354 lb-ft of torque.
This enables the Audi A8 hybrid to accelerate in 7.6 seconds from zero to 62 mph and to achieve a top speed of 146 mph. Yet its average fuel consumption amounts to only 34 US mpg – the CO2 equivalent is 232 grams per mile.
The combustion engine of the Audi A8 hybrid is the 2.0 TFSI® – a high-tech powerplant. This four-cylinder unit, which has been named “Engine of the Year” five times in a row since 2005, is an example of Audi’s downsizing philosophy. It combines direct fuel injection with turbocharging and the AVS Audi valvelift system, which regulates the valve lift in two stages.
In combination with the adjustable intake camshaft, the Audi valvelift system improves cylinder charging and ensures spontaneous and powerful torque build-up. The 2.0 TFSI delivers 211 hp and 258 lb-ft; the torque value remains constant from 1,500 to 4,200 rpm.
In the crankcase of the four-cylinder unit, which has a displacement of 1,984 cc, two balancer shafts offset second-order inertial forces to ensure virtually vibration-free and pleasantly quiet operation that goes well with the luxurious character of the A8. All components are optimized to minimize friction. The flow-rate-regulated, pressure-controlled oil pump further reduces fuel consumption.
The Audi A8 hybrid, which weighs 4,155 lb, drives as if it had a big six-cylinder gasoline engine or a TDI® under its hood. From zero to 62 mph the vehicle accelerates in 7.6 seconds, and it can continue to accelerate up to 146 mph. Yet its fuel consumption according to the EU cycle is only 38 mpg, corresponding to 232 grams CO2 per mile.
In city traffic, the hybrid drive uses about 20 percent less fuel than a conventional drive. Both the car’s performance and its fuel economy benefit substantially from a major advantage of the A8 model series – its lightweight aluminum body based on the Audi Space Frame principle (ASF).
The hybrid drive is designed for fully electric-powered driving up to 40 mph and for a distance exceeding 1.2 miles – especially well-suited for driving in the city or residential suburbs. When conditions permit, the driver can also select the electric mode by actuating a separate e-key in the cockpit. Both the display screen of the instrument cluster and the large monitor of the MMI® operating system on the dashboard present all momentary power flows in brilliant graphics.
When the Audi A8 hybrid starts moving, both of its engines interoperate closely to suit varying power demands. Above 40 mph the combustion engine alone does all the propulsive work, while the electric motor supplies onboard users and recharges the battery.
When the driver lets up on the gas, the combustion engine is disconnected from the drivetrain, so the Audi A8 hybrid ”sails”. In braking and slow-down phases, the e-motor functions as a generator – recuperating energy efficiently and feeding it into the battery.
When the driver floors the pedal, the engine management temporarily controls the entire system power, and now the electric motor is boosting power. 245 hp and 354 lb-ft endow the big sedan with enormous thrust. The intermediate sprint from 37 to 75 in fifth gear for instance is accomplished in 7.5 seconds. The Audi A8 hybrid is an extremely dynamic car – with a fuel efficiency that is setting new standards. This is especially true in everyday user activities. Even its looks betray the power of this near-production concept car with its big 21-inch wheels and their 265/35 tires. Efficiency and sportiness are no paradox at Audi – they go hand in hand.
This near-production concept car has 21-inch, two-colour wheel rims styled with highly three-dimensional surface areas. The exterior paint job of the A8 hybrid is in “Prism Silver” with “Spectra Flair” as an accent color – a rainbow effect that’s accentuated in reflected light along creases and seams on the body.
The prominently located “hybrid” lettering on both front fenders leaves no doubt about what kind of car this is. The accentuation of its width by a prominent low horizontal spoiler edge and a chrome strip conveys the vehicle’s solid stance on the road.
The engine compartment cover with its high-gloss finish and the glass cover of the battery in the trunk also provide visual links to hybrid technology. And the illuminated doorsteps bear the “hybrid” insignia as an elegant touch to underscore the electric aspect whenever the doors are opened – using LED technology to minimize energy consumption.
The passengers also see the prominent hybrid logo displayed on the dashboard. The "Powermeter" in addition shows the energy flow in the instrument cluster.