VAG Division – Volkswagen Group Car Club

Audi R18

• Audi R18 e-tron quattro to contest its first race
• Six more weeks to go before the start of the 2012 Le Mans 24 Hours
• Technologies from the Le Mans sports car are relevant for production vehicles as well

Ingolstadt, May 4, 2012 – The race debut of the Audi R18 e-tron quattro at Spa-Francorchamps this weekend signifies the beginning of a new era at Audi. For the first time ever, a Le Mans sports car with diesel hybrid drive and two driven axles will compete in a race. For Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich, this is arguably the most challenging project in the more than 30-year history of Audi Sport.

Audi previously marked milestones at Le Mans with TFSI gasoline direct injection (first victory in 2001) and TDI diesel power (first victory in 2006). Now, at round two of the World Endurance Championship (WEC) at Spa, the company’s first diesel hybrid sports car will be contesting its first race. The birth of the idea for an LMP vehicle with diesel hybrid power and quattro drive at Audi Sport dates back several years though.

“We started to think about the hybridisation of a Le Mans sports car relatively soon after the first TDI successes,” reveals Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. “A concrete opportunity for this materialized when it became clear that the regulations would be permitting such an option.” In 2008, the Le Mans organiser ACO announced this forward-thinking approach and since 2009 the regulations have expressly been allowing energy recovery systems for LMP1 cars. The complexity of the related tasks is shown by the fact that in 2012 Audi is the first automobile manufacturer to field such an LMP1 vehicle in a race.

As usual, the project at Audi Sport commenced with concept studies. “Naturally, we were again able to benefit from the resources of the Technical Development division at AUDI AG,” stresses Dr. Ullrich. “Right from the beginning of the project, we intensively liaised with our colleagues on the production side of the house where concepts are created and examined for future road vehicles. They worked out a solution in which one of the axles is driven by the power supplied by an internal combustion engine and the other by the power from an electric motor. This defines a new form of quattro drive – the e-tron quattro. We’re also pursuing this strategy in racing, which again puts us on the front row. Not only because we’ll be the first at Spa to contest a race with such a concept in an LMP race car, but because production development will be able to benefit from our system in the future as well.”

For the R18 e-tron quattro, Audi has developed a concept in which the V6 TDI engine drives the rear axle. On the front axle, the energy is electrically recuperated and fed into a flywheel energy storage system which can return it to the front wheels during acceleration. This means that there is no mechanical link between the front and rear wheel drives. The interaction is completely controlled by complex electronic systems.

“The decision in favor of flywheel energy storage was made based on the specific requirements relating to racing,” explains Dr. Ullrich. “That’s also why a battery system is currently out of the question in view of our ultra lightweight design. But I can safely state that the things we’re testing with flywheel energy storage are of interest to our production colleagues too. The combination of different systems is an aspect that will have to be considered in various applications in the future.”

An Audi R8 GT provided the base for the first trials. “In the initial phase of the concept development for the R18 e-tron quattro when we wanted to get a trial vehicle off the ground as quickly as possible we came up with the idea of using the R8 GT as the base for it,” says Dr. Ullrich. “The implementation was possible, at relatively high levels of efficiency and we managed to package all the subsequent original components of the R18 e-tron quattro at the front end of the R8. That’s how our prototype for initial set-up and concept work was created.”

In the development phase up to the finished race car, Audi set ambitious goals for developing the R18 e-tron quattro with support from various partners. Audi Sport has a track record of successfully managing numerous major technological challenges – from the brand’s first carbon fibre race car in 1999 through to TFSI gasoline direct injection and the TDI project. Building a sports prototype with a conventionally driven rear axle and an electrified front axle is an accomplishment that ranks at a particularly high level in Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich’s book: “A look at the timeline for the project since the beginning of 2010 shows that the e-tron quattro with its highly complex technological content and plenty of new territory was no doubt one of the most challenging projects we’ve ever had. At the same time, we should not forget that the R18 ultra as the lightest car ever built by Audi Sport created the prerequisites for hybridisation in the first place. The overall complexity of this project is enormous.”

• Eight showrooms in major cities, 15 outlets by the end of the year
• Strategic locations with the highest market potential
• New corporate identity implemented for first time
• First vehicles already handed over to customers

A new era is beginning for SEAT.  The Spanish manufacturer is, at the Beijing Motor Show, launching its offensive on the Chinese market with the official opening of eight dealerships and the handover of its first customer vehicles.  By the end of the year, the network will have expanded to 15 outlets.

These state-of-the-art facilities are being built and outfitted in line with SEAT’s new brand identity and will serve as a model for the worldwide development of the new SEAT look-and-feel.  Vehicles sold in China will be produced in Europe, starting with the Leon then followed later this year by the new Ibiza family.  And James Muir, SEAT’s Chairman, has confirmed that the brand intends to launch the Alhambra, its award-winning people-carrier, in China next year.

“China is very important for SEAT.  Our offensive on this growth market is a further stepping stone in the development of the brand and just as important as our investment in the highly attractive, new products that we will introduce in the near future,” says James Muir, Chairman of SEAT. “The car market in China is continuing to develop at a very rapid pace and there is a growing demand, particularly among young buyers, for premium, sporty vehicles that are differentiated by a clear and individual design language.  This is where SEAT delivers a unique product offering and this is where we will be successful.”

Launch in eight highly dynamic urban regions
The new showrooms and dealerships played host to simultaneous opening ceremonies yesterday in eight of the country’s urban regions – in Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Nanjing, Shenzhen, Suzhou, Wuhan and Zhengzhou.  Those cities selected are deemed to hold a high potential for the Spanish brand.  Each of them lies at the heart of a region with five to ten million inhabitants, they have an above-average income structure and a high proportion of hi-tech and growth industries.

Over the coming months the SEAT dealer network in China will further expand, with the total number of outlets rising to 15 by the end of 2012.  This summer, showrooms will open in Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Nanning, Xi’an and Xiamen, not forgetting of course

Beijing and Shanghai, which are scheduled to follow.  Each sales and service point will be operated by an experienced investor and highly motivated partner.

New corporate identity reflects brand values
All showrooms feature state-of-the-art and exclusive design in accordance with the new SEAT brand identity, conveying a unique brand experience for all the senses.  Bright, expansive, with powerful and warm colours, they reflect the design philosophy and core values of the Spanish brand – clear, precise and attractively distinctive.  The interiors of the showrooms appeal to all senses – sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste.

The first SEAT Leons are handed over to customers
Multiple showroom opening ceremonies were conducted yesterday in the presence of a member of the SEAT Board of Directors.  President James Muir attended the opening in Wuhan, Paul Sevin (Sales and Marketing) in Zhengzhou, Josef Schelchshorn (Human Resources) in Chonqing, Dieter Seemann (Purchasing) in Suzhou, Dr. Andreas Tostmann (Production) in Chengdu and Ramón Paredes (Governmental Relations) in Shenzhen.  Frank Schreier, head of Quality of SEAT, attended the opening in Nanjing.  The opening festivities will also see the first buyers of a SEAT Leon take possession of their car.

Ibiza and Alhambra will expand the line-up
Following the market launch of the Leon, SEAT will expand its line-up in China with the new Ibiza as an import vehicle produced in Spain.  With its stunning design, the Ibiza fits perfectly to the unique positioning of the SEAT brand on the Chinese market and reinforces the reputation of SEAT as a pioneer of emotional automotive design.  The intention is to further enhance the SEAT portfolio in China with the Alhambra.  With this dynamic, class-leading MPV, SEAT is responding to a definite trend on the rapidly developing Chinese car market – sporty leisure vehicles with a high degree of functionality are currently experiencing a distinct increase in demand.

• One of the UK’s leading auction houses, H&H Classics, to hold exclusive private sale at 2012 London Motorexpo
• Range of other supercars and classic vehicles for sale

Well-heeled petrolheads will have a unique opportunity to take possession of one of the world’s rarest supercars on the planet this summer, when an ultra-exclusive Lamborghini Reventón supercar features in an exclusive H&H Classics sale being held at London’s Motorexpo (Canary Wharf 11-17 June;www.motorexpo.com).

Expected to achieve more than £1 million, the Reventón being offered for private sale at Motorexpo was one of only 20 produced and is thought to be the only example in the UK, making this a truly unique opportunity for automotive collectors.

The Reventón was revealed to the public for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2007 and, despite commanding an asking price of €1 million (plus local taxes), all 20 examples were pre-sold before the car had even been unveiled.  Powered by a 6.5-litre V12 engine producing 650bhp, the carbon-fibre Reventón can crack the 0-62 mph sprint in just 3.4 seconds and go on to a top speed of 211mph, ensuring the car has more than enough pace to live up to its stunning F-22 Raptor jet fighter-inspired body.

As part of its  ‘Supercars and Superclassics’ sale, H&H will be presenting an Auburn Speedster replica as well as a number of vehicles from brands such as Ferrari, Pagani, Maserati, and Koenigsegg.

“The appearance, let alone sale, of a car as rare as the Lamborghini Reventón is sure to attract a large number of supercar enthusiasts and collectors to Motorexpo this summer,” commented Graeme Carver, Motorexpo CEO.

“But even those who can’t quite justify the £1 million asking price for the Reventón can get up close to their potential next purchase – be it classic or modern.  Alongside H&H’s impressive catalogue of vehicles a host of car manufacturers will display more than 250 new models.  With on-the-road prices starting from less than £8,000 there will be a car for every buyer,” he concluded.

Motorexpo is open daily in Canary Wharf from 10am to 6pm (Monday 11 to Saturday 16) and 11am to 5pm on Sunday 17 June.  Entry is free and the show’s organisers are expecting more than 425,000 visitors to enjoy this year’s event and visit Canary Wharf’s 200-plus shops, bars, cafes and restaurants.

In addition to the cars being displayed by H&H, a number of leading automotive brands have already confirmed their attendance, including Bentley, BMW, Jaguar, Kia, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Vauxhall and Volvo.

Motorexpo offers visitors unrivalled interactivity, with all vehicles being open and available for people to sit in and enjoy.  Motorexpo is also offering full test-drive capabilities with Motorexpo DriveME, giving visitors the chance to get behind the wheel of the very latest models on the roads around the famous Canary Wharf business and shopping district.

For more information about the show visit www.motorexpo.com.  Further information about the vehicles being offered by H&H is available at the company’s website: www.classic-auctions.com.

E-Bugster: Volkswagen lifts the lid on electric mobility

Volkswagen is lifting the lid on the E-Bugster concept car at the Beijing Motor Show, which opens its doors to the press on Monday 23 April.  The E-Bugster made its debut as a coupé at the Detroit Auto Show in January, but this time the electric concept’s hard-top has been removed, giving the best hint yet of the look of the future Beetle Cabriolet, and also showing the potential for Volkswagen’s future all-electric drivetrains.

An electric motor provides the E-Bugster with 85 kWh (115 PS) of power, which can propel it from 0 to 60 mph in 10.9 seconds, and yet offers a range of at least 110 miles from the 28.3 kWh lithium-ion batteries.  If the E-Bugster needs a top-up, a fast-charging function allows complete recharging in just 35 minutes from a specialist DC source, or slower charging from an AC source such as a 230-volt domestic outlet.

The E-Bugster also charges itself as soon as the driver’s foot leaves the accelerator pedal, when kinetic energy is transformed into electricity and stored in the battery.  Applying the brakes increases the intensity of regeneration, a function that is indicated to the driver in the instrument panel.  Other instruments include driving range and battery state indicators, and a meter that shows how much energy the driver is requesting via the accelerator pedal.

The E-Bugster’s speedster look is created partly by a 90 mm lower windscreen, and also by the distinctive shape of the panel that covers the lithium-ion batteries behind the seats.  Both front and rear bumpers have been substantially modified from those of the production Beetle.  At the front, LED daytime running lights at the outer edges of the central air intake form a C-shape on the left that is mirrored on the right – a signature of Volkswagen’s electric vehicle concepts.  At the back, reflectors take the place of LEDs.

At 4,278 mm long and 1,838 mm wide, the E-Bugster is the same length as a standard Beetle but 30 mm wider.  Beneath the flared wheel arches sit 20-inch alloy wheels with 235/35 tyres.

►Cross Coupé: diesel-electric hybrid makes Chinese debut

Also making its Chinese debut is the Cross Coupé concept.  This diesel-electric hybrid was first shown at the Geneva Motor Show and promises a combined cycle figure of 1.8 litres per 100 km (around 157 mpg) and emissions of just 46 g/km of CO₂.  This is possible thanks to a drivetrain consisting of a turbodiesel direct injection engine and two electric motors, which together produce 306 PS (225 kW) of power.  That’s enough to propel the 1,858 kg Cross Coupé to a top speed of 220 kmh (137 mph).

The Cross Coupé is built on Volkswagen’s new modular transverse matrix (MQB).  This revolutionary platform standardises certain parameters across models (such as the distance between the accelerator pedal and the front axle), but makes many other parameters variable, creating huge flexibility for developing a wide range of models.  This means it is as easy to make a Cross Coupé that uses a petrol-electric hybrid system as a diesel-electric hybrid, or to use combustion engines alone, or electric power alone for example.

The Cross Coupé uses many elements of the new MQB modular toolkit: MQB front and rear SUV suspension, plus the new 190 PS TDI EA 288 engine, in this case mated to a six-speed DSG transmission.  Added to this is a 9.8 kWh lithium-ion battery in the centre console, plus a 40 kW electric motor at the front and an 85 kW motor at the rear.  Together, these can propel the Cross Coupé from zero to 62 mph in 6.5 seconds.

The 2.0-litre TDI engine alone provides the Cross Coupé with 295 lbs ft of torque (400 Nm) from just 1,600 rpm, while the front E-motor provides 133 lbs ft (180 Nm) and the rear E-motor a further 199 lbs ft (270 Nm)  The drive system can provide a maximum of 516 lbs ft (700 Nm) at any one time.  This helps give the Cross Coupé the performance of a sports car, but with efficiency greater than that of a city car.

In pure electric mode, the Cross Coupé can cover up to 45 km (28 miles) at speeds of up to 120 kmh (75 mph).  If the TDI is needed (for example if the battery’s charge is depleted), it seamlessly re-engages within fractions of a second.  So that in theory, the Cross Coupé’s 55-litre fuel tank gives it a range of 1,287 km (800 miles).

The Cross Coupé is a concept vehicle, and there are no plans to put it into production.

►New Lavida: new version of one of China’s best-sellers

Making its world premiere at Beijing is the New Lavida, presented by Shanghai Volkswagen.  This redeveloped and completely restyled saloon follows in the footsteps of its highly successful predecessor, the Lavida, which launched in June 2008.  Since then, over 700,000 of these A-segment saloons have been sold, making the Lavida among the best-selling vehicles in Chinese automotive history.

New Lavida is offered with a choice of three engines and four equipment lines.  Standard equipment includes ABS, ESP and front airbags.  It is not available in Europe.

►CC 3.0-litre V6

FAW Volkswagen is expanding the CC line-up with this new V6 version.  It is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 producing 250 PS at 6,300 rpm and torque of 228 lbs ft (310 Nm) at 3,300 rpm.  A six-speed DSG gearbox helps the CC to accelerate from zero to 62 mph in just 7.4 seconds, while fuel economy is 9.4 litres per 100 km (around 30 mpg).

►Tiguan R-Line, Scirocco R and Phaeton Exclusive Concept

Also making their Chinese debuts in Beijing are the Tiguan R-Line, Scirocco R and Phaeton Exclusive Concept.  The Tiguan R-Line offers stylish looks to match the performance of the 170 PS TSI engine, including R-Design bumpers, 19-inch alloy wheels, sports suspension and ‘Vienna’ leather upholstery for the R-Line sports seats.

The Scirocco R is similar to the model available in the UK, but for China the engine produces 255 PS and maximum torque of 243 lbs ft (330 Nm), where the UK version offers 265 PS and 258 lbs ft (350 Nm).

The Phaeton Exclusive Concept, which made its European debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2011, was developed with Poltrona Frau, an upmarket Italian company that is one of the world’s top sources for finely crafted leather upholstery.

Just days after it went on sale in the UK SEAT is taking the already sporty design of the New Ibiza up another notch, with the world debut of the Cupra Concept at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition.

SEAT is presenting the Ibiza Cupra Concept as a close-to-production concept car.  Even more clearly than before, the Ibiza Cupra Concept shows the SEAT DNA in its most concentrated form – vigorous performance, the latest technology and comprehensive equipment clad in an emotional design.  With its compact dimensions, the Ibiza Cupra Concept is a sports car for everyday use, combining agile driving fun with a high degree of functionality.  The production version of the new Ibiza Cupra Concept will arrive towards the end of the year.

The Ibiza Cupra Concept is fitted with SEAT’s award-winning 1.4-litre TSI four-cylinder petrol engine, featuring direct injection and both a turbocharger and a supercharger.  It produces a maximum power output of 180 PS, transmitted to the front wheels via a highly-sophisticated seven-speed DSG transmission with shift paddles.  Other highlights include XDS electronic differential lock, high-performance brakes and an optional SEAT Portable System that combines navigation and entertainment functions and is removable for mobile use.

‘With its new, powerfully accentuated design, its innovative technologies, upgraded interior and further improved quality, the new Ibiza Cupra Concept clearly shows how our brand is continuing to develop,’ says James Muir, President of SEAT, S.A.  ‘Emotional design and refined dynamics guarantee driving fun on every single kilometre.  We are presenting the Ibiza Cupra Concept at the Beijing Motor Show because this compact athlete will be an important element in the development of our brand in this key market.’

The dynamic icon of the SEAT brand
The first generation of the Ibiza Cupra took to the streets in 1996, since when the dynamic Cupra lineage has developed to become an icon of the SEAT brand.  The Ibiza Cupra Concept shows how the next chapter of this success story will be written – the state-of-the-art 1.4 TSI engine is not only powerful but is also muscular, producing a maximum torque of 250 Nm.  For a race car-style driving experience, the seven-speed DSG transmission with its extremely short shift times can also be operated via paddles behind the steering wheel.

‘Immediate and linear acceleration, with agile handling, good traction and responsive brakes are the key ingredients for what the Cupra name represents,’ says Dr. Matthias Rabe, Vice President for Research and Development at SEAT S.A. ‘The new Ibiza Cupra Concept is a perfect example of how we at SEAT are adapting the latest Volkswagen Group technology to create a unique and highly rewarding package.’

Expressive design with powerful lines
The sharp design communicates the spirit of the new Ibiza Cupra Concept from the very first glance – this compact hot hatch has a solid and powerful stance.  The new face with its broad grille and bold air intakes emphasises the breadth, solidity and power of the Ibiza Cupra Concept.  The sophisticated design of the headlamps shows the attention to detail in the work carried out at the SEAT Design Center.  Typical of SEAT’s design language are the highly defined outlines to the lamps, which at the same time are integrated perfectly into the Ibiza’s sculptural form.  The LED daytime running lights trace the line of the headlamps to deliver a unique light signature, as do the LED rear lights.  From a technical point of view, the bi-xenon headlamps provide enhanced illumination, while cornering lights are integrated into the large fog lamps.

In profile the three-door Ibiza SC bodyshape is brought to life by its sharply drawn lines and edges, while the muscular rear shoulders and 17-inch wheels underscore its dynamics.  The exterior mirrors are painted gloss black – as is the Cupra tradition –  and offer a clear contrast to the distinctive Crono Yellow paint finish of the Cupra Concept in Beijing.  The powerful rear end underscores once more the special role of the Ibiza Cupra as the new benchmark among compact sports cars – the yellow of the broad bumper frames the substantial, matt-black, diffuser and the trapezoidal exhaust outlet.

Clear interior of the very best quality
The emotional power of the exterior design is also apparent from the interior of the Ibiza Cupra Concept and in the clean, minimalist and clearly structured cockpit.  The exceptional feeling of quality and precision craftsmanship serves to underscore SEAT’s incredibly high standards.  The new sports steering wheel with the Cupra logo and the shift paddles for the DSG transmission, the dedicated instruments and the leather sports seats with their lateral flashes of yellow to match the Cupra exterior are all clear indications of the special role held by the top version of the Ibiza range.

The entertainment system in the Ibiza Cupra Concept is completely new – and the powerful audio set-up can be complemented by the innovative SEAT Portable System. The highly affordable solution with a 5-inch screen is removable for mobile use and yet perfectly integrated into the vehicle’s electronics.  Its many functions include a navigation system, hands-free phone system with voice control and an on-board computer.  At a later point, the SEAT Portable System will be available as an option for the entire Ibiza family.

With the Ibiza Cupra Concept, driving enjoyment and cutting-edge engineering are guaranteed.

Compact SUV study unveiled at Auto China adopts the coveted RS badge and the usual extreme performance credentials

• Conceptual interpretation of a high-performance Q3 delivers 360PS from its five-cylinder, 2.5-litre TFSI petrol engine
• 0-62mpg in 5.2 seconds, 165mph top speed

Two worlds are about to collide in China, where for the first time in its history Audi will attach the overtly sporting RS badge to an SUV. The RS Q3 concept will be one of the stars of the 2012 Beijing Show (Auto China, April 27 to May 2), and as its more muscular body conceals a turbo charged five-cylinder engine delivering 360PS there is no doubt that its bite will justify its bark.

Finished in a combination of striking Ordos Blue matt and blue ‘clearcoat’ paint, the Audi RS Q3 concept sits around 25mm lower than normal on 20-inch alloy wheels with high gloss outer surfaces and sandblasted innards. These are wrapped in 255/30 section tyres, their unusually low profile serving as another reminder that this is as much an RS model as it is an SUV.

The styling treatment underlines this with classic RS hallmarks such as the honeycomb-style grille, deeper air intakes and side sills, a pronounced rear diffuser and large oval exhaust tailpipes. Lightweight carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) is used for elements such as the front spoiler, sections of the air intakes, the door mirror housings and the headlight inserts.

In the interior of the Audi RS Q3 concept, which gets plenty of light through a glass sunroof, black is the dominant colour, and is set off by dark blue contrasting Alcantara sections within the Fine Nappa leather-upholstered seats. This contrasting blue colour is also employed in the door trims and in decorative inlays produced by weaving brilliant blue luminescent glass fibres into CFRP. The steering wheel, finished in black Velvet leather, has large control stalks also made of CFRP, which are framed by aluminium accents.

The lightweight door handles will be familiar from other RS models, and RS badges adorn the instrument cluster, the seatbacks, door sill plates and floor mats. In the rev counter, Chinese characters replace the usual Arabic numerals.

The engine compartment also continues the theme. A layered-carbon trim panel covers the area around the five-cylinder engine, which sports a red valve cover, and two laterally arranged ventilation screens feed air to the engine. In a nod to motor racing, the cylinder numbers are marked on their spark plug covers. An aluminium housing holds the open sports air filter, and the filtered air tube is made of stainless steel.

Formidable five-cylinder

The powerful 2.5-litre TFSI engine combines direct petrol injection and turbocharging in the best Audi traditions. From 2,480 cc of displacement, it generates 360PS, enough to catapult the concept car from rest to 62mph in 5.2 seconds, and to take it on to a top speed of 165mph.

A seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission transfers the forces of the sweet-sounding five-cylinder unit to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. Generally, it directs these forces almost exclusively to the front wheels. When a loss of grip is detected there, it can redistribute forces to the rear axle via a hydraulic multi-plate clutch with electronic control – instantaneously and variably.

• Chairman Rupert Stadler: “As a sporty, global premium brand, Ducati is an excellent fit for Audi.”
• Third pillar for AUDI AG in Italy
• Ducati a leading player in engine technology and lightweight construction

AUDI AG is acquiring from Investindustrial Group the tradition-steeped Italian sports motorcycle manufacturer Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A., which has its registered office in Bologna. The transaction will be completed as quickly as possible once authorised by the competition authorities. The Supervisory Boards of AUDI AG and Volkswagen AG approved the acquisition today in Hamburg.

Ducati is known worldwide as a leading brand in motorcycle manufacture, with outstanding expertise in engine development and lightweight construction.  Alongside the traditional Italian brands Lamborghini and Italdesign, Ducati is now a third pillar for AUDI AG in Northern Italy. Another building block in the Company’s growth strategy thus falls into place.

Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, declared: “Ducati is known worldwide as a premium brand among motorcycle manufacturers and has a long tradition of building sporty motorcycles. It has great expertise in high-performance engines and lightweight construction, and is one of the world’s most profitable motorcycle manufacturers. That makes Ducati an excellent fit for Audi.”

The progressive control systems and special combustion chamber process of Ducati engines, their resulting sporty character, and Ducati’s extensive know-how in lightweight construction thus offer great potential for AUDI AG and the Volkswagen Group.

Peter Mosch, Chairman of the General Works Council of AUDI AG, explains that the employee representatives of AUDI AG support the Company’s sustainable, codetermined growth strategy. “We must use the opportunities offered by globalisation for Audi – and that’s exactly what we’re doing. Everyone at Audi is looking forward to working with our new colleagues from Ducati,” commented Mosch.

Ducati is a globally active company and has manufacturing operations at its headquarters in Bologna and at its own factory in Thailand. It maintains a series of importer companies in strategic markets. Experts predict that the motorcycle market will enjoy strong growth over the next few years, especially in Asia. In 2011, Ducati sold around 42,000 motorcycles and generated revenue of some €480 million, employing around 1,100 people.

The company was founded by Adriano and Marcello Ducati in Bologna in 1926. Known originally as Società Scientifica Radiobrevetti Ducati, it initially built parts for radios. It ventured into the manufacture of motorcycles in 1949.

Ducati has been actively involved in motorcycle racing for many decades through its racing division Ducati Corse. Its racing activities are currently focused on the Ducati official factory team in the MotoGP class of the Motorcycle World Championship and in the Superbike World Championship, supporting competitive private teams. Ducati won the manufacturers’ championship in this latter class 17 times in 21 championships and the pilots’ 14 times.

• Shareholders return Prof. Dr. Ferdinand K. Piëch for a further term on the
• Supervisory Board
• Ursula M. Piëch elected as new member of Supervisory Board

Hamburg, April 20, 2012: The shareholders present and represented at the 52^nd Annual General Meeting of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft held in Hamburg yesterday voted by a majority of 99.96 per cent to pay a dividend of €3.00 (previous year: €2.20) per ordinary share and €3.06 (€2.26) per preferred share as recommended by the Board of Management and the Supervisory Board. Approximately €1.4 billion will therefore be appropriated from the net profit of Volkswagen AG.

The resolutions on formal approval of the actions of the members of the Board of Management and of the actions of the members of the Supervisory Board for fiscal 2011 were passed by 91.88 per cent of the ordinary stockholders.

Prof. Dr. Ferdinand K. Piëch was returned for a further term on the Supervisory Board. The Annual General Meeting elected Ursula M. Piëch as a new member of the Supervisory Board. She succeeds Dr. Michael Frenzel whose term of office expired at the end of the Annual General Meeting. At the constituent meeting of the Supervisory Board held following the Annual General Meeting the members of the Supervisory Board elected Prof. Dr. Ferdinand K. Piëch for a further term as the Supervisory Board Chairman.

Furthermore, the shareholders at the Annual General Meeting authorized the Board of Management to issue a total of up to approximately 43 million new ordinary and/or preferred shares over the next five years. A Special Meeting of the Preferred Shareholders at which 36.46 per cent of the preferred shareholders were present and represented also approved this resolution.

In addition, the Board of Management was granted a further authorisation to repurchase up to ten per cent of ordinary and/or preferred shares within the next five years.

Audi compact premium SUV scores highest safety rating in the ‘Small Off-Road 4×4’ class in Euro NCAP’s rigorous testing programme.

Audi Q3 awarded the top rating among small SUVs in 2011
Audi A6 range also awarded five stars in its Euro NCAP test
The Audi Q3 has been rated best in class in the ‘Small Off-Road 4×4’ category by the European consumer protection initiative Euro NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme). The Q3 received five stars – the highest possible score – for passive crash safety.

Testers assessed the Q3 for its adult occupant protection in a frontal or side collision, child safety and pedestrian protection, and returned a top rating of five stars. Euro NCAP considers, among other things, the fasten seatbelt reminder for the front and in particular the rear seat passengers – systems that the Audi Q3 comes with as standard. It also takes into account the specially-designed front end that helps to mitigate the consequences of a collision and offers greater pedestrian protection.

Driver assistance systems
But the Audi Q3 also features a number of active safety options that go above and beyond the measures assessed by Euro NCAP.

The Q3’s assistance systems have been adopted from executive and luxury class Audi models, and are designed to help to prevent collisions and to make it easier for drivers to keep in lane on the motorway, to change lanes, draw attention to important traffic signs and assist with parking.

The Audi side assist system activates at speeds above 19mph to help drivers change lanes on motorways and dual carriageways. Two 24-gigahertz radar sensors in the rear observe what is happening behind the Q3 to a distance of 70 metres. If another vehicle is in the critical zone – if it is travelling in the blind spot or approaching rapidly – the so-called information stage is activated. A yellow LED indicator illuminates in the casing of the driver’s side mirror; the driver sees it only when looking directly into the mirror. If the driver then activates the indicator to change lanes, the indicator becomes brighter and pulsates.

Audi active lane assist becomes operational at speeds of 40mph and above, and uses a camera mounted in the base of the rear view mirror to detect the lane markings. It monitors the road up to a distance of more than 50 metres and a coverage angle of roughly 40 degrees, delivering 25 high-definition images per second.

Software detects the lane markings and the course the Audi Q3 is following between them. If the car approaches a line without an indicator being activated, the system helps the driver to steer back into the lane by intervening gently in the electromechanical steering. The driver can use the MMI to determine whether steering wheel vibration should also be used to warn of an unintended lane change.

The speed limit display uses the same video camera as Audi active lane assist. In addition to specific speed limit signs and generic signs confirming that the national speed limit applies, the system’s image processing software also recognises digital displays and pictogram-based supplemental signs, such as those applicable in wet conditions. This information is then compared with the data from the navigation system, the maximum permissible speeds in many European countries and information from the vehicle, such as whether or not the windscreen wipers are on and the time of day. The traffic signs are shown as graphics in the display of the driver’s information system (DIS).

Five stars for the new A6
The Audi A6 has earned a five-star rating in its Euro NCAP test, placing it among the safest cars in its class for adult occupant protection in a frontal or side collision and the child safety and pedestrian protection.

The A6 also features a number of active safety options, including the full range of Audi pre sense systems, lane assist, the head-up display, night vision assistant with pedestrian alert function, and Audi park assist. The adaptive light and high-beam assist systems are also available as options.

Euro NCAP tested 53 cars for safety last year across four categories: Adult Protection, Child Protection, Pedestrian Protection and Driver Assistance Systems. Both the Audi Q3 and the Audi A6 achieved outstanding results in these categories.

McNish bids to give Le Mans race winning R15 TDI a perfect “send off” in its final race – the Sebring 12 Hours in Florida
Britain’s Allan McNish sets out to score his fourth and Audi’s 10th race victory in the season-opening Sebring 12 Hours in Florida on Saturday (19 March).

Audi “factory” ace McNish begins a hectic seven race, nine month Intercontinental Le Mans Cup campaign and is determined to get his and Audi’s season off to a flying start.

McNish shares a revised diesel-engined Audi R15 TDI with regular co-drivers Tom Kristensen (Denmark) and Dindo Capello (Italy), the trio looking to sign off the R15 TDI sportscar’s career on a winning note.

“Tom, Dindo and I will race the Audi R15 TDI as opposed to our new R18 which is not race ready yet so the Coupé’s first public outing will be at the ‘test weekend’ for the Le Mans 24 Hours in April and race début at Spa the following month,” confirmed Dumfries-born McNish.

“So we’ll be trying hard to give the ‘old girl’ one last victory in its 10th and final scheduled race. Tom, Dindo and I gave the R15 TDI a début race win at Sebring in 2009, the first of three race wins this particular Audi model scored over the past two years.

“The last win for the R15 TDI was at Le Mans last year when Audi achieved a fabulous 1-2-3 result while Tom and I were very close to adding to that tally in my last race in China last November. So we know the R15 TDI’s reliability record and its performance envelope so believe we can take the chase to the competition.”

New technical regulations from the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) for 2011 prompted Audi to develop the “closed cockpit” R18. Older models like the R15 TDI may only compete in heavily modified form with greatly restricted engine power and a smaller fuel tank.

A field of over 50-cars is expected to contest the 59th Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring presented by Fresh from Florida, the McNish/Kristensen/Capello Audi Sport Team Joest entry backed up by the “sister” R15 TDI of 2010 Le Mans 24 Hour winning combination of Timo Bernhard (D)/Romain Dumas (F)/Mike Rockenfeller (D).

Audi’s arch-rival Peugeot will compete at the 3.7 mile, 17-corner Sebring International Raceway – America’s premier sports car racing facility nestling amongst the orange groves and cattle ranches of central Florida which is the oldest permanent road racing track in North America.

The last time Audi raced at Sebring in 2009, 170,800 spectators attended the race meeting. Legends Mario Andretti, A.J. Foyt, Dan Gurney, Stirling Moss and Juan Manuel Fangio have previously won the annual race which has also attracted the likes of Steve McQueen, Gene Hackman, Paul Newman and Patrick Dempsey.

Allan added: “Sebring is one of the hardest races because it is the opening race of the year while it’s invariably staged in hot and humid weather conditions. The circuit is fast, intense and bumpy requiring 100% concentration throughout.

“I raced at Sebring for the first time in 1997 and won while in the 12 Hour race itself, have won it three times finishing on the podium six times from seven starts, so it has been a happy hunting ground for me and I’m very much looking to continue that trend in 2011.

“I like the circuit because it is an ‘old style’ circuit and hasn’t changed much since Stirling Moss raced there first in the mid-1950s. The track surface is bumpy with some nasty kerbing at some corners all of which we don’t see in Europe, especially not at circuits used for Formula 1 races, but I think it gives it a lot of character. Additionally there is always a mega crowd generating an electric atmosphere.”