AUTOMOTIVE SPORT: 2010 Audi A8 Hybrid Concept Car

2010 Audi A8 Hybrid Concept Car

2010 Audi A8 Hybrid Concept Car

The engine compartment cover with its high-gloss finish and the glass cover of the battery in the trunk also provide The technology architecture already provides a glimpse of a future production model - the Audi Q5 hybrid, which will be introduced later this year. The smooth interaction of these components and their high level of integration attest to the specialized know-how Audi has accumulated. 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 DC-DC converter supplies power to users on the onboard network. Its pulse control inverter regulates the interplay of the battery and the electric motor. The power electronics unit manages the interaction of the systems. The compressor in the climate control system runs entirely on electric power. 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 Concept.

Yet the Audi A8 hybrid Concept also provides ample luggage space of 400 liters (14.13 cubic feet). It is protected by a high-strength housing, and a ventilation module ensures that it always operated within the ideal temperature range. This state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery is more compact and weighs less than other types but is substantially more powerful. The energy storage system of the Audi A8 Hybrid Concept is mounted in the rear section.

The synchronous motor, which is continually excited, also serves as a generator that develops 33 kW (45 hp) of power and 211 Nm (155.63 lb-ft) of torque. Its control requires the utmost precision, and a great deal of know-how has been expended to achieve its smooth, precise and swift operation. A hydraulically operated wet clutch links the 2.0 TFSI with the electric motor. The 2.0 TFSI delivers 155 kW (211 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft); the torque value remains constant from 1,500 to 4,200 rpm.

In combination with the adjustable intake camshaft, the Audi valvelift system improves cylinder charging and ensures spontaneous and powerful torque build-up. It combines direct fuel injection with turbocharging and the AVS Audi valvelift system, which regulates the valve lift in two stages. 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. The combustion engine of the Audi A8 Hybrid Concept is the 2.0 TFSI - a high-tech powerplant. Yet its average fuel consumption amounts to only 6.2 liters (37.94 US mpg) per 100 km - the CO2 equivalent is 144 grams per km (231.75 g/mile).

This enables the Audi A8 Hybrid to accelerate in 7.6 seconds from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) and to achieve a top speed of 235 km/h (146.02 mph). Its two propulsion units - a 2.0 TFSI and an electric motor - develop a total output of 180 kW (245 hp) of system power and 480 Nm (354.03 lb-ft) of torque. Power like a big V6, fuel economy like a modest four-cylinder unit - Audi presents the Audi A8 Hybrid Concept as a technology concept at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. Best of all, the 5-passenger full-size luxury sedan earns the equivalent of nearly 38 mpg on the EPA cycle.

According to Audi, this efficient flagship will accelerate to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 146 mph. A lithium-ion battery pack is stored in the rear. Audi fits its largest sedan with a familiar 2.0-liter, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and then mates it to a 45-horsepower electric motor for a combined 245 system horsepower. Audi revealed today the details of the upcoming A8 Hybrid Concept, set to make its official debut at the Geneva Motor Show.

According to the producers, though the vehicle is designed as a concept of the gasoline-electric hybrid version, it is scheduled to enter the mass production next year. At the Swiss international auto show Audi has introduced its new A8 Hybrid.