2011 Volkswagen Caddy

Volkswagen revealed the new 2011 model of the Caddy van, and although they call it a new generation it seems to be more of a light facelift. As expected, the 2011 VW Caddy facelift has also received the 'Golf VI' face as all the latest models to come from the German brand lately.

The exterior facelift includes a completely redesigned front end that draws inspiration from the latest Volkswagen models and re-trimmed tail lamps at the back. Inside, there's a new steering wheel design, a revised instrument cluster and higher-grade materials.

On the hybrid front, Honda will introduce several new vehicles with the IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) system. While details are limited, the models will be small in size, and the first, the Fit Hybrid, will be introduced in Japan this fall. More importantly, the next-generation Civic Hybrid will be equipped with a high-output lithium-ion battery.

As for engines, the new Caddy preps quite a comprehensive offer. The petrol lineup comprises two new 1.2l TSI petrol engines (86 PS and 105 PS). A 2.0l EcoFuel unit, capable of running on compressed natural gas is also available.

The interior design of the 2011 VW Caddy facelift has been refreshed and now the commercial vehicle has the same steering wheel as the Golf, a new dashboard and improved quality materials. The load capacity of the 2011 VW Caddy facelift is rated at 3,030 liters for the five-seat model and 3,880 liters for Caddy Maxi.

The 2011 Volkswagen Caddy price starts at 13,595 Euro and the first market on which the car will be launch is Germany, towards the end of September.




Press Release

The new generation Caddy

Launches autumn 2010 with more fuel-efficient engines, new design, added safety and extra functionality

• New TDI and TSI engines reduce fuel consumption, emissions and cost

• New front section bears new Volkswagen design DNA

• Revised interior with greater functionality and added class

• New generation ESP as standard on all models

Hanover, 21 July 2010. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is introducing a new generation of the top-selling Caddy. The compact van with its practical rear sliding door system has been enhanced in every area. Six new TDI and TSI engines with up to 21% lower fuel consumption, a completely restructured model range, a more precise, fresh front design in the style of the new Amarok and current T5 generation (Transporter, Multivan etc.) and an upgraded interior, now with a removable second row of seats, plus further reduced maintenance costs make the new Caddy one of the most innovative urban delivery vehicles and compact vans available. Globally the third generation Caddy sold around 800,000 units within just 6 years (2004 to 2009). The new Caddy now promises a dynamic continuation of this success story.

The new Caddy will be the first urban delivery vehicle and compact van in this class to be equipped as standard with ESP on all models. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is thus rigorously pursuing its overriding safety strategy of protecting driver and passengers in the best way possible. The new Caddy will also be the only vehicle in this market segment available with the option of an efficient 6 or 7-speed direct shift gearbox (DSG) and Hill-Start Assist. Naturally, the new generation of this best-selling vehicle is once again available with an extended wheelbase (Maxi) and - uniquely in this market segment - with (4MOTION) 4-wheel drive. 4MOTION being available for the Caddy and Caddy Maxi.

For the first time the second row of seats is completely removable on all models. For the 5-seater Caddy this produces - loaded to the roof - a cargo capacity of up to 3,030 litres; for the Caddy Maxi the figure is 3,880 litres. Of interest to tradesmen and service providers will be the fact that if the Caddy Maxi is fitted with the Flexi-Seat Plus pack, the cargo space (on the front-seat passenger's side) is made over 3 metres longer and cargo capacity increases to a best-in-class 4.7m3. The new Caddy can also be ordered as an option with a bench-style third seating row (standard in the Caddy Maxi Trendline and Comfortline) and as such can seat up to seven people.

Six new high-tech engines: The Caddy's new petrol and diesel engines deliver extreme efficiency (all complying with the Euro 5 emission limits). All of them are completely new to the range and equipped with turbocharging and direct fuel injection.

Turbo diesel engines: The turbocharged four-valve (TDI) diesel engines deliver 55 kW / 75 PS, 75 kW / 102 PS, 81 kW / 110 PS and 103 kW / 140 PS respectively. All of the TDIs now work with very quiet and efficient common rail direct injection. All TDIs are also linked as standard to a diesel particulate filter. The 102 PS TDI can be ordered as an option with a 7-speed DSG. For the more powerful 140 PS TDI there is also a specially designed 6-speed DSG available. The 81 kW TDI is exclusively available as a 4MOTION model with four-wheel drive.

BlueMotion: The most fuel-efficient model in the range is now the new Caddy 1.6 TDI with BlueMotion Technology (75 kW / 102 PS). Average consumption: 4.9 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres (panel van). That equates to a CO2 emission figure of no more than 129 g/km and fuel consumption of 0.6 litres less than the already frugal outgoing model with BlueMotion Technology. This new fuel consumption figure produces a range of 1,176 kilometres on one tank. Fuel costs thus go down to just €6.35 per 100 kilometres (based on €1.245 per litre of diesel, as in May 2010 in Germany).
Alternatively the 75 PS TDI can also be ordered as a BlueMotion Technology variant. Every Caddy equipped with BlueMotion Technology has a Start/Stop system and an automatic battery regeneration system for utilising the energy that would otherwise be lost during braking. With this system, whenever the driver lifts his or her foot from the accelerator or concertedly brakes, the generator's voltage gets increased and is used to top up the battery. That reduces the load on the engine and thus lowers consumption.

Petrol engines: Two new TSI petrol engines are being used in the Caddy. Technical features of both high-tech engines include a turbocharger and direct fuel injection. The extremely fuel-efficient four cylinder engines develop 63 kW / 86 PS and 77 kW / 105 PS respectively from a cubic capacity of 1.2 litres. Just how efficient the engines are is shown, for example, by the 105-PS version with an average fuel consumption of only 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres (figures for the Caddy panel van; equivalent to 154 g/km CO2). Compared to the outgoing model consumption has thus been reduced by 1.6 litres or, as mentioned above, 21 percent. Another frugal and extremely efficient petrol engine for the Caddy and Caddy Maxi is the natural gas version carried over from the previous generation, the 2.0 EcoFuel (CNG), which delivers 80 kW / 109 PS.

Four new model lines: The Caddy model range has also been reconfigured. This relates both to a standard upgrade of equipment levels, to new interior materials, steering wheels and other equipment details as well as a restructuring of the model lines. The Caddy remains available as panel and ‘kombi' variants, which at around 70% make up the lion's share of the sales volume (panel van with no rear side windows specifically for tradesmen and service providers). For customers with more discerning demands in terms of specification, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has completely reorganised the equipment levels. Here the three available model lines are now the Startline, Trendline and Comfortline. The Trendline version replaces the Caddy Life and the top Comfortline version supersedes the successful special ‘Style' model. The Startline has been newly integrated as an entry-level model. As the new top model there will also be the Comfortline Edition (formerly the Style Edition), with which Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will again be offering a very exclusive version of the Caddy. Also still included in the range is the popular camper van, the Tramper (as both Caddy and Caddy Maxi).

New features: Standard on all versions: new daytime running lights. Optional extras on the new range include adaptive cornering lights (integrated into the front fog lights), roof rack (standard on the Comfortline) and the newly designed RNS 315 radio/navigation system.

Prices for the respective models of the new Caddy - after adjusting for differences in equipment options - are slightly below the levels of the previous generation, starting at €13,595 for the panel van and €14,205 for the Startline, in each case with a 63 kW TSI engine and excluding VAT. The launch of the new Caddy begins at the end of September in Germany and the vehicle will go on sale in almost every other country shortly after that. Dealers in Germany are taking initial orders now.

Kia 'Domino' and 'Echo' Black and White Special Editions (UK)

Kia has introduced new special editions of the Picanto city-car, Rio supermini and Soul crossover.

The Domino models offer extra equipment for less money, including fog lamps, air-conditioning and electronic stability control. The Picanto Domino is priced from $12,100, while the Rio Domino starts at $14,100.

The Picanto Domino is available with a 1.1-litre petrol engine, with either a manual or automatic transmission, while the Rio Domino is available with a 1.4-litre petrol or 1.5-litre CRDi diesel engine. Both Domino models are available in white or optional black metallic.

The Picanto Domino is priced from £7,995 and Rio Domino is priced from £9,295. Kia says these prices represent savings of £400 and £350 respectively over the ‘2’ versions upon which they are based.




Press Release

• Two new black and white themed special editions
  
• Domino: new to Picanto and Rio – extra equipment with savings of up to £400
  
• Echo: new luxurious addition to the Soul 'Originals' line-up
  
• On sale now
  

Kia has introduced two new special editions – 'Domino' and 'Echo' – that both play on classic black and white colour schemes and are now on sale across the UK Kia dealer network. Domino, available on the Picanto and Rio superminis, offers additional equipment for less whilst the Echo, available on the Soul urban crossover, comes with an array of luxury features more usually associated with larger vehicles.

Picanto Domino & Rio Domino
The Domino special edition is available on Kia's two practical and stylish five-door superminis –Picanto and Rio. Picanto Domino is available with a 1.1-litre petrol engine, with either a manual or automatic transmission; Rio Domino is available with a 1.4-litre petrol or 1.5-litre CRDi diesel engine.

Both Domino models are available in white or optional black metallic. Their body-coloured bumpers, mirrors and door handles can be offset with an optional contrasting black or white 'domino effect' stripe. Front fog lights complement the stylish 14-inch alloy wheels (Rio) and 14-inch wheel trims (Picanto) whilst additional reassurance is provided from Electronic Stability Control, which is now fitted as standard across all Picanto and Rio versions.

Inside, both models benefit from air-conditioning, iPod connectivity, remote central locking and a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear-knob. Rio Domino adds rear electric windows to the list of standard equipment.

As with every new Kia a seven year warranty comes as standard – Picanto Domino is priced from £7,995 OTR and Rio Domino is priced from £9,295 OTR. These prices represent savings of £400 and £350 respectively over the '2' versions upon which they are based.

Soul Echo
Kia's stylish urban crossover, Soul, has had a dose of luxury added with the arrival of the new Soul Echo. Echo is the latest bold addition to the Soul 'Originals' line-up – a collection of distinctive versions each with their own distinct personality – following on from other 'Originals' such as the Burner, Shaker and Samba.

Echo is available in a choice of two striking colours – Clear White or Quartz Black metallic – and both come with contrasting features that make them the mirror image of each other. The white Echo features stylish black 18-inch alloy wheels, black high-gloss door mirrors and a corresponding black sports stripe. The black Echo features white 18" alloy wheels, white high-gloss door mirrors and a sports stripe in white.

Soul Echo is laden with luxurious features usually associated with more expensive machinery. Inside, a full black leather interior and high-gloss black dashboard fascia continue the external monochrome look whilst an uprated sound system (with subwoofer), Bluetooth and iPod connectivity and reversing sensors ensure the Echo has plenty to keep everyone on board satisfied at all times. Air conditioning and privacy glass keep passengers and their belongings cool and shielded from prying eyes.

On the move, Soul Echo is powered by a choice of 1.6-litre petrol or 1.6-litre CRDi diesel engines and its occupants are protected by a host of safety features including six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control (TC) and a five-star Euro NCAP rating. The Soul Echo is available from just £13,995 OTR.

Soul Echo also benefits from some minor revisions being made to the entire Soul line-up: A trip computer, Emergency Stop Signal (which flashes the hazard warning lights under heavy braking), 'pull' style exterior door handles and illuminated electric window buttons are now standard on all Soul versions. Bluetooth connectivity is standard from the '2' version and above. Finally, Soul Shaker, previously only available in Vanilla, is now available in Chocolate Brown metallic and comes with fully colour-coded bumpers.

Official: BMW Alpina B5 Bi-Turbo [Video]

BMW Aplina has released details on its B5 F10 Bi-Turbo, based on the BMW 5-Series. The BMW Alpina B5 BiTurbo is Power comes from an all-aluminum V8 from the B7 Bi-Turbo making a total of 507-hp and a peak torque of 516 lb-ft. Mated to a ZF SWITCH-TRONIC 8-speed sport automatic transmission, the 2011 BMW Alpina B5 Bi-Turbo goes from 0-62 mph in 4.7 seconds with a top speed of 191 mph.

The suspension of the BMW Alpina B5 BiTurbo has also been improved and now offers the best compromise between good handling and comfort.
As far as the visuals go, the BMW Alpina B5 BiTurbo has a new aerodynamics package which includes a rear spoiler and diffuser, and a modified interior. It's been equipped with a leather interior, comfort seats and a navigation system with Bluetooth connectivity.

Outside the car there’s the ever-so-traditional Alpina wheels that carry a design that has been around for over 20 years. Hardly outdated though, as these measure 20 inches in diametre. There’s also subtle aerodynamic additions that help with high-speed stability and separate the package from the usual BMW 5-Series.






Press Release

THE NEW BMW ALPINA B5 BITURBO
BRILLIANTLY BALANCED HIGH PERFORMANCE

The finely honed balance between athleticism, comfort and every-day luxury that has defined ALPINA automobiles for decades reaches a new dimension in the BMW ALPINA B5 Bi-Turbo.

Five different generations of 5 Series-based ALPINA automobiles have been developed in the last 35 years, revealing to those in the know a unique and exclusive driving experience. The sixth generation draws from the finest ingredients provided by those previous generations to create a mouth-watering palette of characteristics for the most discerning of drivers in the high performance luxury saloon segment.

THE POWERTRAIN - First Class In Both Performance And Economy

First introduced in the BMW ALPINA B7 Bi-Turbo, the all-aluminium V8 powerplant endows the new B5 Bi-Turbo with sensational pace. It achieves 507 horsepower (373 kW) at a moderate 5,500rpm, with maximum torque of 700Nm from 3,000 to 4,750rpm. The "Bi-Turbo" appellation refers to the two turbo-chargers comfortably nestled inside the V shaped 8 cylinder block. They work in parallel, each feeding one of the two cylinder banks. Specially developed for ALPINA in partnership with Honeywell-Garrett, the bespoke exhaust turbines are generously dimensioned. Compared to its super-charged predecessor, this engine configuration delivers more torque over a broader rev range and improves throttle response at low revs.

To fully leverage the potential of the engine, ALPINA have optimised the indirect inter-cooling system (air-to-water / water-to-air) with short intake tracts and increased inter-cooler flow. The high-performance cooling package gains its thermo-dynamic efficiency through the use of a large-volume low-temperature inter-cooler, as well as two water-to-air inter-coolers placed close to the engine. The pistons are a high-performance variant developed together with Mahle to deal with the extreme temperatures and pressures associated with up to 1.0 bar charging and the engine's 9.2:1 nominal compression ratio. Altogether this results in an impressive specific output of 115.3 horsepower (85kW) per litre and a mean total compression of 20.1 bar.

Direct injection and Double-VANOS contribute to the B5 Bi-Turbo's class-leading performance in terms of emissions and economy in the super saloon segment: 10.8 l/100km (26.2 Imp. mpg) and 252g/km CO2 (Combined as per the ECE Norm).

TRANSMISSION - The Eight-Speed All-Rounder

Adapted and tested in cooperation with ZF, the advanced SWITCH-TRONIC 8-speed sport automatic transmission sets a new benchmark. With ALPINA's philosophy the guiding credo, our engineers have spent thousands of development and test hours ensuring that no other performance automatic transmission comes close to providing this level of both comfort and sportiness.

The blend of eight speeds and plenty of torque makes for unparalleled comfortable gear changes with no noticeable interruption to the delivery of power - only the accompanying acoustics and the dynamic rev counter provide feedback as to the workings of the transmission. The 700Nm of torque means the B5 Bi-Turbo excels at gliding along at low speeds in a high gear with minimum revs, benefiting both consumption and comfort.

In Sport mode a completely different character emerges: the transmission is crisp and unmistakably immediate. The innovative single-cylinder step-down (EZA), specially developed by ALPINA for the B5 Bi-Turbo allows for super quick up-shifts in just milliseconds, in spite of the high torque. Depending on the load on the transmission, the injection of fuel into a given cylinder is interrupted for a fraction of a second, creating the required reduction in torque that the automatic transmission needs for the up-shift. The advantage versus the typical timing retardation are noticeably quicker shifts, and improved thermo-dynamic efficiency due to reduced exhaust temperatures as well as lower fuel consumption. The single-cylinder step-down (EZA) is accompanied by a tone nothing short of spectacular, as each shift harbours a deeply sonorous back-pressure burble.

The Manual mode gives the driver full control over every shift. The SWITCH-TRONIC buttons are ergonomically and aesthetically positioned on the back side of the steering wheel, and can be used by the driver in whatever manner he or she wishes, based on traffic and the roadway at hand. The system also allows for multi-simultaneous down-shifts in fractions of a second, hereby the transmission will skip several gears depending on accelerator loads and revs. In this mannerthe 8-speed sport automatic transmission with ALPINA SWITCH-TRONIC reveals itself to be multi-faceted and able to provide the proper shift characteristic for any and all situations.

The intelligent coupling of state-of-the-art engine and transmission technologies give the B5 Bi-Turbo strong performance figures: just 4.7 seconds to 62mph (100km/h) are needed, on the way up to a top speed of 191mph (307km/h). Even if the driver is seldom in such a rush: massive braking capability in the form of ventilated high-performance brakes (front: 374mm/14.7in; rear 370mm/14.6in) ensures braking on par with pure-bred sports cars.

SUSPENSION - Excitingly Sporty, Relaxingly Comfortable

The times when "properly stiff" suspensions were seen as a positive handling characteristic are long gone. It remains a fact that a truly neutral set-up, even atthe limit, provides the best technical compromise. This is achieved in part through shorter yet very progressive springs and special suspension arms, which in combination results in more camber on the front track.

Together with 20" wheels and tyres, ALPINA have achieved a very balanced and direct chassis set-up, discarding a pure sport-orientated approach for an agile suspension with precise turn-in. The new light-weight 20" ALPINA CLASSIC are shod with the most advanced high performance tyre technology available today. Making their debut on the B5 Bi-Turbo, the new MICHELIN PILOT SUPER SPORT tyres, which measure 255/35ZR20 at the front and 285/30ZR20 at the rear, provide highest levels of high-speed stability. In addition to improved all-round capabilities, these non run-flat tyres provide greater traction on wet roads, offer improved hydro-planing behaviour and excellent rolling comfort.

To fulfil the highest demands in terms of comfort, everyday usability and razor-sharp handling when called for, the B5 Bi-Turbo is equipped with electronically-adjustable suspension (Variable Damper Control). Using the control switch mounted to the left of the shift lever, the driver can select between Normal, Comfort, Sport and Sport+. This system has been artfully calibrated by ALPINA, and is tied into other system parameters controlling steering assistance, torque cushioning and DSC. The B5 Bi-Turbo transitions effortlessly from cultivated luxury to thorough-bred sportiness. Light steering, ultra-comfortable suspension and an imperceptibly shifting transmission B5 Bi-Turbo the ideal partner in stop-and-go traffic, when covering great distances or when encountering less than perfect road surfaces. Yet at the touch of a button, the B5 Bi-Turbo will track through tricky corners and exciting sections of road with an agility and light-footedness like no other in its class.

When the 8-speed sport automatic's manual mode is combined with the selection of the Sport or Sport+ modes, the driver benefits from a new feature: no mandatory up-shifts. When truly pressing on through twisty sections of road or around hairpins, skilled drivers can remain in their selected gear and not be interrupted by an up-shift.

The optionally available Dynamic Drive reduces body roll in corners, awarding the B5 Bi-Turbo even more agility.

When placed in Sport+ mode by the driver, the B5 Bi-Turbo's dynamic control systems offer a heightened form of DSC called Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), which allows noticeably more slip at the rear wheels and delays the point at which the traction control systems take over.

DESIGN & INTERIOR - Classic Craftsmanship Meets Modern Technology

The new B5 Bi-Turbo presents typical ALPINA virtues and design cues in a new and convincing fashion, with a refreshing and dynamic appearance.

The self-assured and powerful front commands attention with its decidedly sport-orientated lines and striking air. The rear is especially harmonious, clearly communicating the B5 Bi-Turbo's ALPINA family heritage. The ALPINA exhaust's two double-ended-pipes are artfully integrated into the rear valance, a discreet rear diffuser completing the silhouette. The diffuser can be deleted as needed, should the customer desire the optional ability to tow a trailer. In combination with the rear spoiler, the B5 Bi-Turbo's total aerodynamic package yields the highest levels of safety and stability, especially at high speeds. The resulting reduction in lift, speed-dependent, can reach a remarkable - 60% front and - 30% rear.

The interior reveals the expected discreet touches that suggest the B5 Bi-Turbo's exclusive pedigree. The standard equipment level is comprehensive: leather interior, versatile and adjustable Comfort seats, an excellent navigation system with Bluetooth preparation, and Xenon headlamps all ensure the driver's and passengers' well-being. The hand-stitched LAVALINA leather SWITCH-TRONIC steering wheel can be positioned exactly as needed to see the blue ALPINA gauges with black-panel LCD technology, thanks to the electrically-adjustable steering column. The classic ALPINA burled Myrtle wood trim provides a warm
ambience - found only on the USA's Pacific Coast it is cultivated from dedicated Laurel tree groves grown for just this purpose.

THE BMW ALPINA B5 BITURBO - Brilliantly Balanced High Performance

The overall harmony and the accomplished manner with which the B5 Bi-Turbo's last fine calibrations were achieved are a common thread, and as always carry that ALPINA flair, our signature. Sovereign performance and opulent torque assure excellent performance, this in conjunction with "best-in-class" fuel economy and CO2 emissions. Neutral turn-in and road-holding, agile handling and a many-faceted, adjustable suspension satisfy the highest demands in terms of comfort and a sporting nature. The interior's warm ambience and modern treatments foster a sense of well-being. For those who would only award themselves that something unique, exclusive volumes and the ALPINA philosophy of hand-craftsmanship offer a nearly endless spectrum of personalisation.

Audi R8 e-tron entered in road rally [Video]

Audi has entered the new R8 E-tron in the Silvretta E-Auto Rally Montafon 2010. E-tron is the name given to Audi's electric vehicles (EVs). The R8 was chosen for its light aluminum frame, it's available and in production, and looks good racing and rallying.

The R8 E-tron will run the 167.5 km (104.08 miles) route of the Silvretta E-Auto Rally Montafon 2010 piloted by factory driver Lukas Luhr as well as Audi's own head of technical development, Michael Dick. The race takes place in the Austrian state of Vorarlberg.

Wrapped in an Audi R8 body, the E-tron comprises four electric motors, two at the front and two at the rear axle, which generate an amazing 313 hp, as well as 4,500 Nm of torque. The motors allow the car to use all that instant torque and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.8 seconds.

As for the battery pack--a prime concern when heading out 100 miles in one direction, even with a factory support team at your back--it can be charged in just 2.5 hours from a 400-volt, 63-ampere source. Audi hasn't said how far the car can go on a single charge, or revealed the capacity of the pack, however.

Source: Audi



Press Release

First stage: Audi R8 e-tron in "Silvretta E-Auto Rally Montafon 2010"

• Audi electric sports car entered in Silvretta E-Auto Rally

• Audi Board Member and a factory driver at the wheel of the Audi R8 e-tron

• Technology platform to complete ten special stages over 160 kilometers

Montafon/Voralrberg, 2010.07.08 - Audi has entered an e-tron technology platform wrapped in the skin of an R8 in the Silvretta E-Auto Rally Montafon 2010. Michael Dick, Member of the Board of Management of AUDI AG for Technical Development, and factory driver Lukas Luhr will pilot the electric sports car along the 167.5 kilometer (104.08 miles) route through the Austrian state of Vorarlberg. After debuting with a demonstration run at "Le Mans vers le futur" as part of the 24-hour race, the Audi R8 e-tron will now be competing in three stages.

"We already received very good feedback on the Audi R8 e-tron in Le Mans," says Michael Dick, Member of the Board of Management of AUDI AG for Technical Development. "In Montafon, the e-tron will put its potential to the test in ten different mountain, valley and timed special stages. This is a good opportunity to showcase Audi's integrated approach and to experience the fascination of electromobility in a sports car on the road."

Four motors - two each on the front and rear axles - power the wheels of the Audi R8 e-tron, making this test vehicle a true quattro. With 230 kW (313 hp) and 4,500 Nm (3,319.03 lb-ft) of torque, the two-seater accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.8 seconds. The technology platform is designed for a top speed of 200 kilometer per hour (124.27 mph).

The technology platform vehicle wrapped in the skin of an R8 demonstrates that the Audi e-tron belongs in the major leagues of electric sports cars. The package does justice to all of the specific realities of an electric vehicle: The water-cooled, lithium-ion battery is located directly behind the passenger cabin for an optimal center of gravity and axial load distribution.

With the R8 e-tron technology platform, Audi is providing an insight into the development work. The requirement specification for the production concept goes far beyond battery technology and the replacement of a combustion engine with an electric drive system. The interaction of all components has a decisive influence on efficiency, range and practicality.

Design and package
One glance is all it will take for the fans at the Silvretta E-Auto Rally Montafon 2010 to recognize the caliber of the car: Based on the R8, this Audi e-tron has a wide, powerful road stance. The trapeze of the single-frame grille dominates the front end and is flanked by two large air intakes. 1.90 meters (6.23 ft) wide, just 4.43 meters (14.53 ft) long and 1.25 meters (4.10 ft) tall - those are the proportions of a supercar. The wheelbase of 2.65 meters (8.69 ft) leaves plenty of room between the axles for people and technology. The sporty proportions offer enough room in front of the rear axle for the battery unit and the power electronics.

The special package of the Audi e-tron technology platform provides for a 42:58 distribution of weight between the front axle and the rear axle, and thus for optimal balance and driving dynamics.

Because systematic lightweight construction is also a crucial prerequisite for the efficiency and range of electric cars, the Audi designers tapped into one of the company's core competences for the R8 e-tron technology platform: The body structure is based on Audi Aluminum Space Frame (ASF) technology.

Driving dynamics
The normal distribution of torque is clearly biased toward the rear axle and is similar to that of the production R8 mid-engine sports car, sending roughly 70 percent to the rear and 30 percent to the front. If an axle slips, this balance can be varied by means of the four centrally controlled electric motors. The electric vehicle from Audi thus enjoys all of the advantages of quattro technology.

The R8 e-tron also uses the four individual motors, which as wheel drives are connected directly to the respective wheel via a short shaft, to control the lateral dynamics. Similar to what the sport differential does in conventional quattro vehicles, they enable torque vectoring - the targeted acceleration of individual wheels - and thus active distribution of the torque. This improves driving dynamics while at the same time increasing driving safety. Understeer and oversteer can be corrected by not only targeted activation of the brakes, but also by precise increases in power lasting just a few milliseconds. The concept car remains extremely neutral even under great lateral acceleration and hustles through corners as if on the proverbial rails.

The chassis has triangular double wishbones at the front axle and a trapezoidal-link rear suspension made of forged aluminum components - a geometry that has proven in motorsports to be the optimal prerequisite for high agility, uncompromising precision and precisely defined self-steering behavior. A taut setup was chosen for the springs and shock absorbers, but still offers a high level of comfort.

The direct rack-and-pinion steering gives finely differentiated feedback. Boost is varied electromechanically as a function of speed. Fittingly, the technology platform rolls on 19-inch wheels.

Power supply
The energy storage unit is charged with household current (230 volts/16 amperes) via a cable and a plug. What used to be fuel cap covers the socket. With the battery fully discharged, charging time is between six and eight hours. High-voltage (400 volts, 63 amperes) reduces this to around 2.5 hours.

The battery isn't only charged when the car is stationary, but also while driving. The keyword here is recuperation. This form of energy recovery is already available today in a number of Audi production models. During braking, the alternator converts the kinetic energy into electrical energy and feeds it into the onboard electrical system. This relieves the load on the alternator during the next acceleration phase, which enhances driving dynamics and improves efficiency.

Interior and control concept
The interior evokes motorsports ambience on a luxury level. As with the R8, its distinctive element is the monoposto: a large arc sweeping around the dashboard instruments. Unlike the R8 production model, however, the Audi R8 e-tron has a graphic display to indicate the driving mode. It is located between two dial instruments that indicate the recuperation and the boost level, respectively. Similar to the new A8, the driver of this high-performance sports car can select the various driving modes using a stalk that is based on shift-by-wire technology.

Audi at the Silvretta Classic
It goes without saying that Audi's heritage department will also be participating in the traditional Silvretta Classic. Thomas Frank, Head of Audi Tradition, will be piloting one of the rare green Audi Sport quattro models. A grand total of 15 of these cars were painted "Malachite Green" between 1983 and 1985. What had long been the most expensive car that Audi had ever built is highly coveted by collectors and enthusiasts, and prices are rising steadily.

Another headturner in the automobile scene is the Audi Ur-quattro. Audi Tradition is entering a 1988 model with a very special team in the Silvretta Classic. Multi-time Mille Miglia-winner Luciano Viaro has relied on blind co-pilots in classic rallies for some time now. The Italian "M.I.T.E." project (Miteinander, Insieme, Together, Ensemble) is a multilingual symbol for the integration of people with disabilities in classic racing. Blind persons are given the opportunity to participate actively in rallies as co-pilots, directing the driver using a roadbook in Braille. Audi Tradition has supported this project for the past year and is making its project debut at the Silvretta Classic in 2010.

2010 Switzer Porsche 911 Turbo P800 Tiptronic

The power mad tuners from Switzer Performance have released today the details of the Switzer Porsche 911 Turbo P800 Tiptronic gearbox. The tuner worked on reprogramming the Porsche’s transmission control unit (TCU) software to increase the torque limits, but they needed more than that if they wanted to obtain a total of 700 HP.

For Ohio-based Switzer Performance, however, 700 hp is far from enough. “We first noticed the limitations of the 997 Tiptronic with our P700 (l4) PKG, which, pushed hard on certain high-octane fuels, can cause slipping in the trans.,” explains Tym Switzer, owner and chief engineer of Switzer Performance. “When we released our P800 kit for the 997 Turbos, which makes over eight hundred horsepower, we were forced to limit sales to manual-transmission cars. This didn’t satisfy the customers who wanted the kind of ultimate straight-line performance that the Tiptronic can offer, and – to be frank - it didn’t satisfy us.”

For the project, they added more friction surfaces to improve power delivery, improved shift speed with a new valve body, eliminated transmission slips with more clutches, and reprogrammed the entire transmission control unit software. The result is a Tiptronic 997 Turbo that sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 2.8 seconds, even when using standard air pressure, tires, and fuel.

The new 997 Turbo P800 Tiptronic blasts from 0-100km/h (60mph) in a scant 2.8 seconds. On standard tires. With standard air pressure. On pump gas. Creating one of the quickest daily-driver Porsches in history.




Press Release

OBERLIN, OH - 06JUL2010 - Tuners everywhere rejoiced when Porsche introduced an upgraded Tiptronic transmission with its 997 Turbo models. The five-speed automatic/manual, built for Porsche by German neighbors Mercedes-Benz, is capable of handling as much as seven hundred horsepower in some applications ... and, for most tuners, that's all the capacity they will ever need.

For Ohio-based Switzer Performance, however, 700 is far from enough. "We first noticed the limitations of the 997 Tiptronic with our P700 (l4) PKG, which, pushed hard on certain high-octane fuels, can cause slipping in the trans.," explains Tym Switzer, owner and chief engineer of Switzer Performance. "When we released our P800 kit for the 997 Turbos, which makes over eight hundred horsepower, we were forced to limit sales to manual-transmission cars. This didn't satisfy the customers who wanted the kind of ultimate straight-line performance that the Tiptronic can offer, and - to be frank - it didn't satisfy us."

After spending a considerable amount of time reprogramming Porsche's transmission control unit (TCU) software to increase the torque limits, Switzer realized that effectively putting more than seven hundred horsepower through the Tip cars would require something more than a software-based solution.

Working with development partners in the US and Europe, Switzer disassembled, upgraded, and rebuilt the Tiptronic transmission to meet customer demands for higher hp projects. The first builds produced transmissions that were stronger and sharper than the factory unit, but not strong enough to contain Tym's hard-hitting P800. This final effort, however, Switzer and his European counterparts pulled out all the stops: additional clutches eliminate slippage, additional friction surfaces ensure more efficient power delivery, a modified valve body to improve shift speed, and (last, but not least) another round of transmission programming which enables the Tiptronic to make the most of its uprated internals.

On its maiden voyage, the new 997 Turbo P800 Tiptronic blasted from 0-60 mph in a scant 2.8 seconds. On standard tires. With standard air pressure. On pump gas.

Subsequent tests confirm that Switzer had produced one of the quickest daily-driver Porsches in history - and Tym isn't shy about using the "B-word" in discussing the car's performance, either. "These cars have Bugatti performance from 0-60. We're still perfecting the calibrations, but we expect our clients will go Veyron hunting very soon, and those guys don't like to lose."

Switzer is in no hurry to share the precise secrets of building nine-hundred-horse-capable Tiptronic transmissions, but the company is perfectly willing to build up transmissions for owners of other tuner cars, as well. "Of course, I have to believe that our P800 kit continues to be the ideal daily-driver/trackday package, but some clients have a comfortable working relationship with TechArt or 9ff. They still want a quicker Tiptronic car that they can turn up the boost on, though, and we can work with them to make that happen, and help them get the most out of the investment they've already made" says Switzer.

Drivers who participate in 0-100 or 1/8 mile dragstrip challenges may find Switzer P800 Tiptronic to be the perfect weapon; with the PCCB ceramic brakes and the 911's traditionally brake-friendly weight distribution, 0-100-0 supremacy is all but assured.

Switzer's transmission upgrades start at 7990 USD, but anyone who wants to hit a hundred miles per hour before the most supercars make their way to sixty may consider it money well spent.

(note: car in photos also shows Switzer L2 Appearance PKG, incl. black tips/wheels + CF GT2-style wing)