VAG Division – Volkswagen Group Car Club

• 54,000 spectators experience DTM show event in Munich
• Edoardo Mortara was Saturday’s winner and Sunday’s runner-up 
• Controversial time penalty imposed on Mattias Ekström

Ingolstadt/Munich, July 17, 2011 – Edoardo Mortara has confirmed that his victory at the DTM’s debut in Munich’s Olympic Stadium on Saturday did not happen by chance. The Italian Audi racer in the Playboy Audi A4 DTM of Audi Sport Team Rosberg reached the finale on Sunday as well. 
 
54,000 spectators (throughout the weekend) saw a successful DTM show event on the 1.190-kilometre track. On both public days the finale, despite different race formats, pitted Edoardo Mortara in the Audi against Bruno Spengler in the Mercedes-Benz. After the 24-year-old Audi driver had prevailed against the DTM leader of the standings on Saturday with an advantage of 0.366 seconds “Edo” again fought a close duel for the day’s victory with the Canadian on Sunday. The decision was made when Mortara touched the track barrier shortly before the finish and was forced to retire. 
 
On the way to the finale on Sunday Mortara had clearly prevailed against the Mercedes drivers Susie Stoddart, David Coulthard and Renger van der Zande in the respective heats. The Audi driver was on a par with Bruno Spengler up to the third of five laps and only lost some ground after the pit stop. “I tried everything to win again today,” said Mortara. “My Audi A4 was again super-fast. But a very small mistake on this track is all it takes to end up in the wall. It’s really difficult here.”
 
Mattias Ekström (Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline) and Martin Tomczyk (Audi Sport Team Phoenix) made it into the quarter-final on Sunday. Ekström clearly won the race against Renger van der Zande. However, a controversial time penalty meant an early end of the competition for the three-time winner of the “Race of Champions” and co-favorite for the day’s victory. On the way to the start the Swede had turned around his Red Bull Audi A4 DTM by intermittently hitting the gas pedal to please the crowd. “I just wanted to do something for the fans. After all, this was a show event. It’s too bad that I was punished for this,” said a disappointed Ekström. 
 
Filipe Albuquerque, Timo Scheider, Mike Rockenfeller, Oliver Jarvis and Miguel Molina, who had won the relegation against Rahel Frey in the morning, were eliminated in the eighth-final. 
 
“We’ve experienced a great event in every respect and have probably won many new enthusiasts for the DTM,” commented Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. “This is exactly what we wanted to achieve through this show event. I’d like to thank everyone who made this event possible. We’ll be happy to return.”
 
The next championship race of the DTM is on the calendar for August 7 at the Nürburgring. Martin Tomczyk as the best Audi driver is the runner-up in the standings, just three points behind Bruno Spengler. The hero in Munich, Edoardo Mortara, is the best DTM rookie at the season’s midpoint.
 

Communications Motorsport

• Two-door coupe to succeed the successful A4 DTM
• Safety standards even higher than before
• Presentation at the IAA in Frankfurt

Ingolstadt, July 15, 2011 – Model change in the DTM: From 2012 on, Audi will bank on the A5 in the most popular international touring car racing series. The coupe, which is internally named “R17,” will replace the four-door A4 DTM with which Audi has won the prestigious DTM title four times since 2004. 
 
The technically and visually upgraded A5 that will be arriving at dealerships shortly provides the basis for the new DTM car. “In 2012 new Technical Regulations will come into effect in the DTM,” says Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. “We’ve got exactly the right model for that in the A5. We’re convinced that we’ll be able to continue Audi’s success story with it in the DTM.”
 
The new technical specifications have been worked out by the German Motorsport Association (DMSB) and the DTM umbrella organization ITR in close cooperation with the automobile manufacturers and are setting new standards particularly in terms of safety. “Our engineers have been involved in bringing up safety in the DTM, which had already been high before, to the highest possible level,” explains Dr. Ullrich. “At Le Mans this year we learned again that our concept of designing safety structures is a very good and appropriate one. This is exactly what we’ve been trying to feed into the DTM’s safety concept together with our colleagues from BMW and Mercedes-Benz. This new principle is an outstanding example of what is possible when employees of three premium manufacturers try to achieve a common aim: to get the best possible, lowest-cost and safest vehicle – and a fantastic car in general – off the ground.”
 
Like all new DTM cars, the new Audi A5 DTM has a high-strength carbon-fiber monocoque that is combined with a steel tube cage. In addition to the A- and C-pillars the new regulations prescribe a B-pillar in front of the driver’s head to be installed in the future. The sidewalls of the vehicles feature a hybrid design with a carbon, Zylon and Rohacell construction that is structurally reinforced by pegs. In case of a side impact the walls have to be able to withstand a static load that is about four times higher than before. “The sidewall has been reinforced so that the new DTM vehicle can be exposed to a side impact (T-bone crash) without the wall failing,” explains Dr. Mühlmeier, Head of Technology at Audi Sport. “Up to now, a bearable side force of 80 kN at a specified point has been required whereas for the 2012-specification vehicles 360 kN across the whole length of the sidewall is now required. This means that the monocoque has not only been reinforced at a certain point but across the entire length.”

The requirements for the front and rear crash absorbers have been increased as well. “At higher speed lower deceleration is specified in order to protect the driver even better than before,” says Dr. Mühlmeier. “To achieve this, a crash test with the whole vehicle is now prescribed for the first time as well – according to FIA standards with 14 meters per second forward and backward against a rigid wall. In the past, ‘only’ the front and rear crash elements had to be driven against a wall with a sled.”

Although fire accidents have almost never occurred in the DTM the safety standard in this respect has been raised even further as well. In the new generation of DTM cars the fuel tank, similar to the Le Mans winning Audi R18 TDI, is integrated into the carbon fiber monocoque. This further reduces the fire hazard in case of a side impact crash.

For Audi the new DTM regulations mark a consistent continuation of the work done over the past three decades. The rally cars already had a high level of safety. For the supertouring cars Audi Sport developed a completely new side impact protection of carbon fiber and energy-absorbing foam in the middle of the nineteen-nineties. Ever since Audi has had sports prototype commitments crash tests and work with high-strength carbon composite materials have been part of its routine business. And for the R8 LMS GT3 sports car Audi introduced a pioneering safety concept for this category in 2011. “We’ve continuously improved in this area and will do so in the future as well,” stresses Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. “The new DTM vehicles are the best piece of proof that you can make something that is already very safe even saver. This is another thing we mean by ‘Vorsprung durch Technik.’”
 
The first prototype of the R17 is currently being built up at Audi Sport in Ingolstadt. The roll-out is just around the corner. The new Audi A5 DTM will be unveiled to the public at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt.
 
The V8 engine with a power output of about 460 hp (340 kW) will be adopted from the successful A4 DTM nearly unchanged. The proven six-speed transmission will continue to be used as well. Characteristic features of the 2012-generation of DTM vehicles are a larger rear wing and a reduction of the permitted aerodynamics components. The concept studies of the Audi A5 DTM by the Audi Design Team merely suggest the looks of the new Audi race touring car. 

Communications Motorsport

• Revised Tiguan compact SUV features new design, engines and technology
• Prices range from £21,085 to £28,020 RRP ‘on the road’
• Technical highlights include Fatigue Detection, Lane Assist and XDS for the first time
• Open for ordering from 1 July; first UK customer deliveries in September

Volkswagen’s revised Tiguan compact SUV goes on sale tomorrow, 1 July, with prices starting from £21,085 and rising to £28,020 (RRP OTR).  Customers will be able to order a new Tiguan, with the first customer deliveries arriving in the UK in September.

Like the previous model, the latest Tiguan is unique in being available not only with a choice of two- or four-wheel drive, but also with the option of two front ends.  One has a front end biased towards on-road driving with an 18 degree angle of approach while an ‘Escape’ model has a 28 degree angle of approach and additional technologies for off-road driving.

Whichever version is chosen, all new Tiguans feature a new look dominated by horizontal lines on the front grille, bringing the model into line with other new Volkswagen models.  The Tiguan now also once again bears a strong resemblance to its ‘big brother’ the Touareg.  At the rear, new two-part light clusters give the Tiguan a distinctive appearance.  Again, similar to those of the Touareg, they form an ‘L’ shape, while the lower border of the lights also follows a horizontal geometry.

Four trim levels available: S, SE, Sport and Escape.  All models will be well equipped, with 16-inch alloy wheels, Climatic air conditioning, DAB radio and alarm standard on even the entry-level S.  SE adds 17-inch alloys, 2Zone electronic air conditioning, Park Assist, iPod and Bluetooth preparation plus Fatigue Detection system (as fitted to the new Passat) as standard.  Sport versions gain multi-function steering wheel and Bluetooth connectivity, plus chrome plated roof rails, heat insulated and tinted glass from the B-pillar back, sport seats, front fog lights and sports suspension among other items.  The new Escape model features comfort and convenience features (including Bluetooth and multi-function steering wheel) which were not previously available, reflecting a change in customer demands for off-road capability and a high level of equipment.

Six engines are available, three petrol and three diesel, four of which are new to the Tiguan.  New engines include a twin-charged 1.4-litre TSI with 160 PS (up from 150 in previous generation), a 2.0-litre TSI with 180 PS and a 2.0-litre TSI with 210 PS (previously 200 PS).  Despite the increase in power CO₂ emissions have remained as before or improved.

A 2.0-litre TDI 110 PS engine is offered in two-wheel drive and with a CO₂ output of 139 g/km.  A further two diesel power units are carried over from the previous generation (the 2.0-litre common rail TDI with 140 and 170 PS).  All have improved carbon dioxide emissions values: the 170 PS engine now emits 158 rather than 165 g/km; while the 140 PS unit has been improved substantially meaning it is now in a lower VED band (reduction from 164 to 150 g/km manual and 169 to 158 g/km for seven-speed DSG).  Diesel engines will account for around 90 per cent of Tiguan sales; the best-selling derivative is expected to be the 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS.

Both the 2.0-litre TDI 110 and 140 PS models, as well as the 1.4-litre TSI 160 PS with two-wheel drive are designated BlueMotion Technology models.  As such they feature Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems to enhance fuel economy and reduce emissions.

A number of options are available for the first time on the latest Tiguan, including Kessy (Keyless Entry and Start System), the RNS 315 satellite navigation system, Lane Assist (which helps prevent accidents caused by the driver drifting out of the lane) and Light Assist which switches between dipped and main beam depending on oncoming traffic.

Also available as an option is XDS electronic differential lock – as fitted to the Golf GTI. 
A functional extension of the electronic locks already integrated via ESP, XDS improves handling when driving quickly through bends.

Naturally the latest Tiguan retains all the versatility and practicality for which the previous model was renowned, being a four-door, five-seater.  The rear seat (from SE upwards) is a 60:40 split bench that can be adjusted forwards and backwards by up to 16 cm and also reclined, while cargo capacity ranges from 470 to 1,510 litres.

The first images of the new Tiguan were revealed in February, ahead of the car making its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.  The Tiguan is Volkswagen’s fourth best-selling model (after Golf, Polo and Passat), and in the four years since launch nearly 600,000 have been sold worldwide.  For more information, go to www.volkswagen.co.uk.

New Tiguan line-up with pricing

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• New Golf Cabriolet launched after a nine year absence
• Powered folding fabric roof takes just 9.5 seconds to open
• Establishes new class benchmarks in quality, comfort and refinement
• Open for ordering tomorrow with prices starting at £20,720 RRP OTR

Glastonbury wellies are packed away, Wimbledon is running to schedule and there’s an abundance of red shoulders on show: yes, the English summer has finally arrived and it’s here to stay (for at least a day or two).  What better time then to open the order books for the new Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet which is back after a nine year absence and in better shape than ever.  Prices for the new model range from £20,720 (RRP OTR) to £26,595.

First shown earlier this year at the Geneva Motor Show, the new two-door, four-seater, front-engined soft top joins the range alongside the Eos hard-top convertible.  It is fitted as standard with an electrically-powered fabric roof which can be lowered in just 9.5 seconds including on the move at speeds up to around 18 mph.  No separate roof cover is needed, contributing to the very rapid opening time, and resulting in less bootspace intrusion and meaning that even with the roof down, there is 250 litres of available space.

The Golf Cabriolet is around 20 cm shorter than the Eos, measuring 4,215 mm in length, 1,424 mm in height and 1,779 mm wide.  The 2,578 mm wheelbase (same as Golf hatchback) ensures there is plenty of interior space for all four passengers, while a 50:50 split/folding rear seat and Easy-Entry function ensure maximum practicality and good access to the rear. 

At the front, the grille and bonnet make the new soft-top model clearly identifiable as a Golf; however from the heavily raked windscreen back, it’s all new, giving a sportier appearance.  At the rear, new lights plus a deep crease in the bootlid are distinctive design features.

What can’t be seen from the outside are the differences that have been incorporated under the skin.  In changing the hatchback to a soft-top, modifications were made to ensure that safety, comfort and refinement were not compromised in the cabriolet version.  These include reinforced window frames and structural modifications to the underbody, side panels, cross-members and doors to endow the new car with an extremely high level of torsional rigidity.  Also benefiting refinement is the design of the fabric roof which has an additional exterior skin, as well as new window and door seals.

Safety has always been a Golf attribute and the Cabriolet is no different in this respect.  An active rollover protection system is employed, ABS, ESP and front and side head/thorax airbags are also all standard.

The new Golf Cabriolet will be available with a choice of three engines: a 1.2-litre TSI 105 PS, 1.4-litre TSI 160 PS and a 1.6-litre TDI 105 PS.  A further petrol and two diesels will be offered later in the year.  DSG automatic transmission will be offered while BlueMotion Technology modifications will be applied to the diesel engines to ensure high efficiency and low emissions. 

Three trim levels will be offered – S, SE and GT – and all will have a high level of standard specification, featuring 16-inch alloy wheels, and Bluetooth among other items (for full details see the price list by clicking here).  Moving up to SE, features such as 2Zone climate control, cruise control, parking sensors and automatic lights are added, while at the top of the range, GT adds a number of new highlights including sports suspension, Alcantara upholstery and 18-inch alloy wheels.  

With total sales of around 1.42 million units, Volkswagen is one of the world’s most successful producers of convertibles; from 1979 to 2002, 684,000 Golf Cabriolets were sold.  The new model will be built at Volkswagen Osnabrück (formerly the Karmann company) in Germany.

Order books open tomorrow, 1 July, with the first customer deliveries due to take place at the start of September.  For more information please visit your Retailer or www.volkswagen.co.uk.

Golf Cabriolet model line-up and pricing

* BlueMotion Technology

Golf Cabriolet history

Total production to date – 684,000

Total UK sales to date – 34,189

UK Product Communications – Milton Keynes

Eagerly awaited Audi model debuts, past masters and potential stars of the future congregate at annual celebration of motoring in West Sussex

• UK debuts of the RS 3 Sportback, Q3 compact SUV, A6 Avant, R8 GT Spyder and 408PS quattro concept
• R18 TDI sports prototype commemorates 2011 Le Mans victory in the F1 Paddock
• Hannu Mikkola pilots S1 quattro  up the hill
• Le Mans winners past & present Marco Werner and André Lotterer, former DTM Champion Hans-Joachim Stuck plus Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason in the driving seat

Hot-off-the-press additions to the Audi model range will vie for attention with hero cars from the brand’s past and present and potential stars of its future at this weekend’s Goodwood Festival of Speed (1-3 July). An anticipated 150,000 visitors will descend on Goodwood House near Chichester, West Sussex for this celebration of the best of motoring and motorsport through the ages, and as usual Audi will have a major presence.

Stand-out stars from the present day Audi portfolio will include the Q3 compact SUV, the 340PS RS 3 Sportback, the A6 Avant and the breathtaking 560PS R8 GT Spyder, all of which make their UK public debuts at the Festival. A potential legend-in-the-making  – the critically acclaimed lightweight aluminium, five-cylinder, 408PS quattro concept – will also be on hand to show how the revered Sport quattro of the Eighties could possibly be rocketed into the future.  

On the competition front, the Audi R18 TDI sports prototype will be looming large in the F1 paddock in commemoration of the tenth victory for Audi in the 24 Hours of Le Mans marathon race earlier this month. One of the three winning drivers, Germany’s André Lotterer, will drive the innovative diesel-powered racer up the hill course at Lord March’s estate. 

Another legend destined for the hill will be the 1985 Audi Sport quattro S1 rally car,  featuring the world-famous quattro all-wheel-drive technology which changed the face of rallying. One of its star drivers, Hannu Mikkola, who won the FIA World Rally Championship in a quattro in 1983, will be behind the wheel again over the weekend.

Meanwhile,Audi Tradition will also look to the past with two 1930s Auto Union “Silver Arrow” Grand Prix cars which will be piloted by Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason and Audi’s 1990 German Touring Car Champion Hans-Joachim Stuck. DKW, one of the four brands which joined forces to form the Auto Union marque which eventually gave rise to Audi, will also be represented by two pre-war motorcycles: a DKW SS 250 (1937) and a DKW SS 350 (1939).

Visitors to the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed can read more about the Audi element of this fascinating event by visiting www.audi.co.uk, or by downloading the Audi Goodwood app from the Apple iTunes store.

Picture caption

Audi in the festive spirit – Debutants in the Audi model range, as well as futuristic concept studies and hero cars from the brand’s past, will be among the Audi stars at this weekend’s Goodwood Festival of Speed (1-3 July).

Note to Editors

In 2010 Audi recorded its best ever worldwide result of 1,092,400 sales, a 15 per cent improvement over 2009. In the UK, 99,828 Audi models found homes last year, a 9.5 per cent increase on 2009.  To sustain the technological lead embodied in its Vorsprung durch Technik slogan, the brand plans to invest €11.6 billion, mainly in new products, between 2011 and 2015.  By this point, its range will have expanded from today’s 35 models to a total of 42. Recent additions, including the A1 subcompact and the A7 Sportback, will be joined by, among others, the new A6 Avant and the Q3 compact SUV. The R8 e-tron, the first fully electric series production Audi model, will also arrive in late 2012. On the race circuit Audi Sport has contested the Le Mans 24-hour race twelve times since 1999, achieving a podium finish on all of these occasions as well as outright victory 10 times. In 2011, Audi won Le Mans with an entirely new TDI diesel-powered ‘closed’ coupe sports prototype, the Audi R18.

For further information please contact:

Wolfsburg / Berlin, 28 June 2011: Today, Volkswagen – in cooperation with six project partners and the German Ministry of the Environment – is presenting the current status of the “Fleet study in electric mobility” that was initiated in July 2008. The primary goal of the project which runs until June 2012: consistently utilise renewable energy sources for electrically powered vehicles. Within the framework of the fleet study, Volkswagen is implementing a total of 20 of the latest generation Golf Variant twïnDRIVE cars as research vehicles.

Their plug-in hybrid drives operate with zero emissions in urban operation using an electric motor. The Golf Variant twïnDRIVE enables distances of up to 57 km on pure electrical power; an additional small internal combustion engine provides for a total range of about 900 km. Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn,

Chairman of the Management Board of Volkswagen AG, comments on the twïnDRIVE: “When it comes to driving with zero emissions within cities while covering far greater distances as pure electric vehicles – the twïnDRIVE system by Volkswagen sets new standards and could over the mid-term develop into the ideal form of mobility for the vast majority of car drivers.”

Fleet study encounters transition in energy production

The “Fleet study in electric mobility” is now assuming a high level of importance, in the wake of events in Japan and the German federal government’s mandatory exit from nuclear energy production. According to plans by the federal government, the number of pure electric vehicles will reach one million units in Germany alone by 2020. And these vehicles must be operated sustainably – i.e. from renewable energy sources – to attain significant progress in environmental protection.

Volkswagen counting on renewable energies

Before the transition in energy policy, Volkswagen had already appealed for the intensified use of renewable energy sources. During a workshop on electric mobility in Shanghai in mid-2010, Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn emphasised that: “Future electric cars offer us tremendous opportunities for reshaping mobility to become even more sustainable. However, we must – on behalf of the environment – ensure that the energy used to operate these electric cars is also generated renewably, i.e. from renewable resources. Since carmakers do not make decisions on which types of power plants will be built, governments must assure that environmentally-friendly energy sources are utilised. Only then will we experience a genuine transition to a new era.” This new era is now within reach.

Optimising the stability of the power grid

Over 16 per cent of Germany’s electrical needs are already covered by renewable energy sources, and plans are afoot to extend this share to 30 per cent by 2020. Volkswagen, for example, has installed one of the highest performance wind power systems in the world at its German plant in Emden; it already supplies one-third of the factory’s energy requirements. In parallel, more and more electricity is being generated from solar and water power. These forms of energy must also be used for mobility. However, the amount of renewably generated energy is subject to fluctuations due to natural factors (e.g. sunshine duration, wind strength). This means that it is necessary to control intelligently electrical demand to avoid load peaks. In this context, the “Fleet study in electric mobility” is analysing the usage behaviour of drivers of cars with electrical charging, electric load control and intelligent strategies in the charging process. In addition, a scenario is being tested, in which some of the daily peak electrical demand might be buffered by the cars’ lithium-ion batteries in the future.

Plug-in hybrid will assume much greater importance

Through its “Fleet study in electric mobility”, Volkswagen is acquiring valuable knowledge on how cars with plug-in hybrid drives like the Golf Variant twïnDRIVE handle continual use. As already noted, the 20 Golf Variant twïnDRIVE cars can be driven over long distances in pure electric mode, i.e. with zero emissions. The expression “environmental zone” takes on an entirely new meaning in cities.

One of the goals of Volkswagen AG is to launch numerous plug-in hybrid cars on the market in the years 2013/2014. In the area of electric mobility, they are intended to supplement the Group’s hybrid models that are already being produced today (these models currently include cars by Audi, Porsche and Volkswagen), as well as the pure electric vehicles that will also debut from 2013. Clearly, plug-in hybrid models – i.e. cars with combustion engine, E-motor and a battery that can be charged by an external power source – will acquire special significance in the urban environment. Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn comments on this: “Over the mid-term, the plug-in hybrid offers great potential here, because it unites the best of 2 worlds in one vehicle.” The plug-in hybrid, according to Winterkorn, enables precisely what many customers expect: an unlimited driving range with internal combustion engine mobility and an attractive electrical driving range in everyday driving.

Fleet study brings together specialists in Germany

The large-scale introduction of plug-in hybrid cars and pure electric cars continues to be associated with great challenges. Prof. Dr. Winterkorn: “Electric mobility will be a century-long endeavour for Europe as a centre of automotive production and industry. Carmakers, suppliers, energy providers, scientists and politicians – everyone must step up to the plate.” In Germany, the “Fleet study in electric mobility” is bringing together precisely these partners.

Six project partners

The “Fleet study in electric mobility” is being conducted by six project partners from research and commerce under the leadership of Volkswagen AG. Representing the energy industry is energy provider E.ON. From the research area, the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft ISIT (representation of the battery systems and development of new battery chemistry), Heidelberger Institute for Energy and Environmental Research (IFEU; creating eco-balance), the German Aerospace Centre (DLR; analysis, forecasting traffic scenarios) and the Westphalian Wilhelm University in Münster (development of methodologies, laboratory testing of battery cells) will contribute their expertise and know-how to the fleet study.

For more details please see the full report by clicking here

UK Product Communications – Milton Keynes

Distinctive design features and a high level of standard equipment for new limited run version of acclaimed 430PS, 187mph sports car

• R8 V8 Limited Edition available to order from July in coupe form only and with either manual or R tronic automated manual transmission priced from £93,935 OTR –  first UK deliveries in October
• Marked out externally by R8 GT-inspired titanium-look alloy wheels and red brake callipers, and inside by trim detailing in crimson red
• Exclusive titanium effect paint finish and carbon package options
• Standard equipment includes Audi magnetic ride, satellite navigation, the Audi Music Interface (AMI), interior light package, Bang and Olufsen sound system and Bluetooth mobile phone preparation with integrated seat-belt microphones.
• R8 V8 Limited Edition 0-62mph in 4.6 seconds, 187mph top speed, 21.2mpg (R tronic), CO₂ 310g/km (R tronic)

A stunning new titanium-effect paintwork option and enhanced standard equipment will mark out the new R8 V8 Limited Edition, which becomes available to order next month priced from £93,935 OTR. Created in honour of the tenth victory for Audi in this month’s gruelling 24 Hours of Le Mans marathon race, which was won first in 2000 by the R8 sports prototype, the new feature-rich special edition road car is based on the hugely successful R8 V8 Coupe. It will be reserved solely for UK R8 customers, and with just 100 examples currently scheduled for production it will offer even greater exclusivity.

Titanium finish 19-inch ‘5-arm double-spoke Y design’ alloy wheels inspired by the R8 GT Coupe, and embellished by red brake callipers, will be the key differentiating feature of the exterior of the R8 Limited Edition in its standard form. All normally optional metallic and pearl effect paint options will also be included in the Limited Edition price, but for maximum visual drama customers will be able to specify a striking Titanium Metallic paint finish, which will be exclusive to this model, at extra cost.

Over and above the standard R8 V8 Coupe specification, the Limited Edition model includes satellite navigation, the Audi Music Interface (AMI), an interior light package and a  premium Bang and Olufsen sound system, as well as mobile phone preparation via a Bluetooth interface with integrated seat-belt microphones.

Standard Audi magnetic ride

The much praised Audi magnetic ride adaptive suspension system also makes a special appearance as standard equipment in the Limited Edition. Using sensors to monitor road conditions, it adjusts the damping effect to suit them by varying a magnetic charge which passes through a fluid-based shock absorber. Mated to the ultra-lightweight aluminium and magnesium Audi Space Frame (ASF) and the advanced suspension bolstered by quattro permanent all-wheel-drive technology, the system creates the optimum conditions in which the mid-mounted 430PS V8 FSI engine can give its very best.

As it revs freely to its 8,250rpm limit, the directly injected 4.2-litre engine dispenses with the zero to 62mph sprint in 4.6 seconds in both manual and R tronic automated manual versions of the R8 V8 Limited Edition. Autobahn-permitting, it can then power on to a 187mph top speed.

On the inside, the Limited Edition is marked out by crimson red accents to the sides of its Black Fine Nappa Leather-upholstered seats and headrests, which also feature red contrast stitching. The design theme is continued with red stitching on the flat bottomed, leather-covered multi-function steering wheel and instrument cowl and by a striking crimson red leather finish for the monoposto. To complete the look, the knee pads and passenger door handle are also finished in red leather, and the floor mats have a red surround and feature the R8 logo in silver. The sporting character is further underlined by stainless steel pedals and illuminated door sills with bright aluminium inserts carrying the R8 logo.

For even greater visual distinction, the R8 V8 Limited Edition is also available with an optional Carbon Package, which adds carbon sigma sideblades, door mirrors, monoposto, inlays and door sill trims. Perhaps most impressively, the racing-inspired material also frames the illuminated engine bay, giving even greater prominence to the potent V8 that is clearly visible through the rear window.

In common with all R8 models, the R8 Limited Edition also includes one special standard feature that isn’t so immediately apparent – a bespoke R8 Driving Experience at Silverstone Circuit which will enable owners to fully acquaint themselves with the dynamic characteristics of the R8 in controlled conditions.

Picture caption

The even rarer breed of R8 from Audi– Just 100 examples of the new R8 V8 Limited Edition are currently planned for production, all of which will be bound for the UK. Featuring an exceptional equipment list and offering the option of a stunning and unique titanium paint finish, the new 187mph special edition opens for order in July priced from £93,935 OTR.

Note to Editors

In 2010 Audi recorded its best ever worldwide result of 1,092,400 sales, a 15 per cent improvement over 2009. In the UK, 99,828 Audi models found homes last year, a 9.5 per cent increase on 2009.  To sustain the technological lead embodied in its Vorsprung durch Technik slogan, the brand plans to invest €11.6 billion, mainly in new products, between 2011 and 2015.  By this point, its range will have expanded from today’s 35 models to a total of 42. Recent additions, including the A1 subcompact and the A7 Sportback, will be joined by, among others, the new A6 Avant and the Q3 compact SUV. The R8 e-tron, the first fully electric series production Audi model, will also arrive in late 2012. On the race circuit Audi Sport has contested the Le Mans 24-hour race twelve times since 1999, achieving a podium finish on all of these occasions as well as outright victory 10 times. In 2011, Audi won Le Mans with an entirely new TDI diesel-powered ‘closed’ coupe sports prototype, the Audi R18.

For further information please contact: