Thursday, March 1, 2012

Audi A4 and Q7 plug-in hybrid e-tron models confirmed

. Thursday, March 1, 2012

During his keynote speech at today's annual press conference, Audi Chairman, Rupert Stadler expanded on what to expect from the future of Audi's e-tron model line. Noting that "the electric driving experience will become a reality for a growing clientele with our plug-in hybrids," Stadler confirmed that in addition to the A3, Audi will launch plug-in hybrid models of the A4 and Q7 starting in 2014. More after the jump.

Though typically associated with fully electric vehicles, Audi's e-tron nameplate encompasses the company's plug-in hybrid models as well (as seen on the A3 e-tron concept). As Stadler stated directly following his comments on the A4 and Q7, "In 2020, we want to have an e-tron available in every segment."

Below is an excerpt from Rupert Stadler's speech today at the Audi annual press conference 2012.

"Our A1 e-tron has been out on the roads since September 2011. In a pilot project with a vehicle fleet in the greater Munich area, test customers are using it under everyday conditions. We will utilize the results in the "Showcasing Electromobility" projects funded by the German federal government. Under our e-tron master plan, Audi intends to follow the launch of our hybrid models this year with the launch of our first electric vehicle: the R8 e-tron.

While we are planning small-scale series production for this car, which is a vital element in our innovation and technology plans, the electric driving experience will become a reality for a growing clientele with our plug-in hybrids. Our pioneering vehicle in this field is the Audi A3, with the market launch of a plug-in version slated for 2014. This will be followed by the next-generation Audi A4 and Audi Q7 plug-in cars – starting in 2014 and in successive years. In 2020, we want to have an e-tron available in every segment and to achieve total sales in the six-figure range."

Source: Audi AG