Photo Gallery, Review & Specifications |
2012 Audi A8 Hybrid
The power of a six-cylinder model, the fuel consumption of a four-cylinder version: Audi will be starting series production of the A8 hybrid in 2012. Its gasoline engine - a 2.0 TFSI - and an electric motor develop peak output of 245 hp and 345 lb-ft (480 Nm) of torque. Average fuel consumption is below 6.4 liters per 100 km (36.75 US mpg). The sedan can travel at speeds of up to 60 mph on electric power alone, and cover around 2 miles (3 kilometers) with zero local emissions at a constant speed of 37 mph (60 km/h). (continued below)
2012 A8 Hybrid Photo Gallery |
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Audi A8 Hybrid: Low Fuel Consumption in the Top Class
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Source: Audi | Published: Wed Aug 24, 2011 |
(continued from above)
The Audi flagship model is designed as a highly efficient parallel hybrid.
The 2.0 TFSI, which has been modified in some areas, generates an output of 211
hp and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque, which is available between 1,500 and 4,200
rpm. The combustion engine works together with a disc-shaped electric motor
which develops 54 hp and 155 lb-ft (210 Nm).
The permanent magnet
synchronous motor is mounted in the space usually occupied by the torque
converter in front of the modified eight-speed tiptronic. A multi-plate clutch
that operates in an oil bath connects or disconnects the electric motor and the
TFSI engine. The clutch operates ultra-precisely and gently in all situations.
The highly comfortable and fast-shifting hybrid transmission guides the torque
to the front wheels; with its wide gear spread it contributes to the efficiency
of the Audi A8 hybrid.
The short-term system output of 245 hp (180 kW)
and the system torque of 345 lb-ft (480 Nm) ensure highly agile performance. The
Audi A8 hybrid reaches 60 mph in 7.4 seconds from a standing start and has a top
speed of 146 mph (235 km/h). Its fuel consumption in the EU cycle is less than
6.4 liters per 100 km (36.75 US mpg), and CO2 emissions are below 148 grams per
km (238.18 g/mile).
The Audi A8 hybrid can drive at up to 60 mph purely
on electric power and has a range of up to two miles (three kilometers) at a
constant 37 mph (60 km/h). This gives the driver the choice of three modes: The
EV characteristic map gives priority to the electric drive, while the D mode
efficiently controls both the engine and the electric motor. The S mode and the
tiptronic gate are designed for a sporty driving style. The hybrid sedan has
five operating states: with the TFSI engine alone, with electric drive only or
in hybrid mode; recuperation and boosting are also possible. Two displays show
the driver all operating modes in detail.
The lithium-ion battery, which
weighs 81 lb (38 kilograms), is located in a crash-proof area in the trunk. It
provides 1.3 kWh of nominal energy and up to 40 kW of power. Two different
methods are used to air-cool the battery, depending on need: with air blown from
the passenger compartment by a fan and via a separate cooling circuit coupled to
the automatic air conditioning system. The battery is thus kept within the
temperature window required for it to perform to its full potential over a wide
range. The electric motor and the compact power electronics which serve as a
controller between the electric motor and the battery are water-cooled.
In visual terms, the Audi A8 hybrid is distinguished by subtle details. The ten
spokes of its alloy wheels - which have a diameter of 18 inches as standard and
19 inches as an option - are reminiscent of turbine blades. The body features
hybrid badges, and Arctic Silver is available as an exclusive paint finish. The
metallic paint finish, three-zone automatic air conditioning, LED headlights and
the BOSE sound system come standard.
Thanks to the brand's
ultra-lightweight construction expertise, the Audi A8 hybrid will be one of the
lightest sedans in its category. Its ASF (Audi Space Frame) body is made
entirely of aluminum, while the B-pillars are of hot-shaped, ultra-high-strength
steel. Weighing just 509 lb (231 kilograms), it is roughly 40 percent lighter
than a comparable steel construction.
Specifications |
Key: AT - automatic transmission, MT - manual transmission, F/R/AWD - front/rear/all wheel drive |
Powertrain |
Type |
I4, Turbocharged + Electric Motor |
Displacement |
121 cu in (1984 cc) |
Power |
211 hp |
Torque |
155 lb-ft |
Redline |
n/a |
Electric Power |
54 hp |
Electric Torque |
155 lb-ft |
Driveline |
All Wheel Drive |
Transmission |
8 Speed Automatic |
Brakes & Tires |
Brakes Front - Rear |
Ventilated Discs - Solid Discs |
Tire Size Front - Rear |
R18 (Std.) |
|
R19 (Opt.) |
Exterior Dimensions & Weight |
Length |
n/a |
Width |
n/a |
Height |
n/a |
Curb Weight |
n/a |
Performance |
0-60 mph |
7.4 s |
1/4 Mile |
n/a |
60-0 Braking |
n/a |
Top Speed |
146 mph |
Fuel Economy |
EPA Fuel Mileage - City/Highway |
n/a |
Origin & Price |
Origin |
Germany |
Base Retail Price (MSRP) |
n/a |