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It arrived at just the right time: The Audi 50, the first small car from a German manufacturer, was launched in 1974, shortly after the beginning of the oil crisis in 1973. Its fuel consumption was economical, and its design pioneering: front-wheel drive with a transverse engine, a two-door hatchback with a large trunk and fold-down backrest, compact external dimensions, and appealing road performance and driving characteristics. Moreover, the Audi 50 was a blueprint for the structurally almost identical VW Polo, which was launched seven months later, leveraging synergies within the Volkswagen Group – already a recipe for success half a century ago.

 
It was meant to be modern and versatile, the new Audi 50 – and complete the model range of the Audi 80 and Audi 100 at the bottom end. As early as 1970, the engineers at Audi NSU Auto Union AG started work on the project, spearheaded by CTO Ludwig Kraus. They were looking for a successor to the stalwart NSU small car, which was nearing the end of production. The developers constantly had the following goal: “A contemporary car must be the right size for today’s imperatives,” as stated in the design manifesto for the Audi 50. The key to success was the transverse engine. This allowed the Ingolstadt engineers to fashion a car with a relatively large interior despite its total length of 3.49 meters. Two versions of the “mini Audi,” which weighs just 685 kilograms, were launched: the Audi 50 LS with 50 PS and the Audi 50 GL with 60 PS, both with 1.1-liter engines. The Audi 50 LS had a maximum speed of 142 kph, while the Audi 50 GL maxed out at 152 kph. The 50-PS version used regular gasoline, but the more powerful 60-PS car needed super-gasoline. In 1977, the latter variant was replaced by a newly developed 1,300 cc engine, which ran on ordinary gasoline. Responsibility for designing the appearance of the Audi 50 was entrusted to Hartmut Warkuß, who had previously designed the Audi 80. Warkuß crafted a delicate, timeless form around the package built by Ludwig Kraus.
 
The Ingolstadt team presented the Audi 50 to the international media in Sardinia in the summer of 1974. It reached dealers for the first time on October 26: the Audi 50 LS was priced at 8,195 Deutschmarks, and the Audi 50 GL at 8,510 Deutschmarks. The “mini Audi” was planned and developed initially at Neckarsulm and later at Technical Development Ingolstadt and was built at the Volkswagen plant in Wolfsburg. Precisely 43,002 Audi 50 models had come off the assembly lines in Wolfsburg by March 31, 1975, when production also started on the structurally almost identical VW Polo. Production of the Audi 50 ceased in the summer of 1978, by which time 180,828 models had been built. From then on, Audi has concentrated more on mid-range and higher-end cars. Even if the Audi 50 blossomed only for a few short years, it established the small-car segment in the Volkswagen Group; subsequently, millions of VW Polos were built over its various generations.
 
Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

More modern, bigger, more digital: In mid-2024, all model variants of the Q2, including the SQ21, will receive a significant upgrade. The infotainment system for the compact SUV is receiving a comprehensive technology update. Effective immediately, every new Audi Q2 and SQ21 will come with the Audi virtual cockpit and an 8.8-inch touchscreen as the central control unit for the MMI. A convenient storage compartment replaces the previous rotary/push button. The base price for the Audi Q2 is 28,600 euros. The SQ21 starting at 50,500 euros.

 

Audi is systematically advancing its models: Effective immediately, the Audi Q2 and SQ21 – the convenient and popular compact SUV – is receiving a comprehensive technology upgrade of its infotainment system. All models will now be delivered with new software and hardware. The innovations now included as standard comprise a high-resolution 8.8-inch MMI touch display, the Audi virtual cockpit with a 12.3-inch instrument display and the three-spoke multifunction steering wheel. Additional safety features, such as traffic sign recognition, lane departure warning, and rear park assist, further expand the range of standard equipment.

A perfect overview: The Audi virtual cockpit for all models

Effective immediately, all Audi Q2 models, including the SQ21, come standard with the Audi virtual cockpit. In contrast to traditional dial instruments, the fully digital cockpit features a bright full HD display (1,920 x 720 pixels) and a wide range of customization options. These include traditional speed, RPM values, and navigation or media information. The view button on the multifunction steering wheel lets the driver toggle between the different views. Several designs are available depending on the chosen equipment level, including the Sport design with red accents or the Dynamic design with opposing scales.

Drivers can also toggle between two basic display layouts: In one layout, the speedometer and tachometer are about the same size as analog dials and integrate media or navigation information into the central display area.

In the second layout, the size of the speedometer and tachometer are reduced without compromising readability. This layout also features an almost full-screen navigation map with integrated route planning. Its large size makes the map much easier for the driver to read. As an additional option, the Audi virtual cockpit is also available with Audi’s new theme worlds. Customers who choose this feature can toggle between the classic and highly dynamic views. The Audi SQ21 also comes standard with a central, bar-shaped rev counter in a particularly sporty design.

Intuitive: Operation via 8.8-inch touchscreen and voice control

Now 8.8 inches in size, the new MMI touch display is the central control unit of the state-of-the-art infotainment system. The display is bright and highly responsive, with a resolution of 1,270 x 720 pixels. In addition to touch control, the system can also be controlled via natural speech, enabling instant responses to complex commands or questions. A convenient storage compartment now replaces the previous rotary/push button in the center console.

The compact SUV is intelligently connected: The standard equipment includes the MMI Radio, which features a DAB tuner, two data-capable USB-C ports in the front center console, emergency call functions, and several Audi connect services, such as remote control for viewing and controlling certain vehicle information including unlocking the doors or checking the fuel level. As an additional feature, the MMI Navigation preparation package includes the Audi smartphone interface, which allows customers to enable and activate numerous Audi connect services as well as the intelligent navigation system.

MMI Navigation plus, the largest package, includes Audi connect services as well as navigation services with high-resolution satellite maps and other services, e.g. from Google. With MMI Navigation plus, the navigation map can be projected as a large image in the Audi virtual cockpit, making it easy to read alongside all relevant driving data. One update every month keeps the maps saved in the system up to date for 36 months after purchase. The package also includes additional online services, such as traffic information plus lane-specific details on the traffic flow, on-street parking information, online radio, and online music identification. The Audi connect system always uses a permanently installed e-SIM (embedded SIM).

High-end options round out the infotainment package: The Sonos premium sound system with 13 speakers and a subwoofer delivers intensive, crystal-clear, and powerful sound. The Audi phone box makes it easy for customers to integrate their smartphone and numerous functions into the MMI while simultaneously boosting the mobile phone signal (5G/LTE) to ensure the best possible voice quality at all times.

Market launch in the first half of 2024; prices starting at 28,600 euros

The upgraded Audi Q2 will be launched in the first half of 2024. In Germany, the initial price is 28,600 euros. The SQ21 starts at 50,500 euros. Audi will continue to build the cars at the main plant in Ingolstadt.

 
1. Audi SQ2: Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 8,6-8,4 (27.4-28.0 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 196-190 (315.4-305.8); CO2 class: G

Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

The Audi A3 allstreet is the distinctive crossover in the A3 family. With its characteristic off-road look, three centimeters more ground clearance than the A3 Sportback, and the raised seating position, the vehicle offers an SUV-like driving experience combined with high functionality. Thanks to the seamless integration of apps into the infotainment system, the ability to flexibly add vehicle functions, as well as a comprehensive range of connect services, the A3 allstreet is digitally connected.

 

“At very first glance, the Audi A3 allstreet stands out from the rest of the A3 family,” says Stephan Fahr-Becker, Team Leader of Exterior Design at AUDI AG. “As a crossover in the premium compact class, it has a completely unique look. The aim was to use specific design elements to emphasize the vehicle’s higher ground clearance even more.”

Off-road character for a confident look

This goal was achieved, among other things, through a vertical emphasis of the matte black Singleframe. The large octagonal radiator grille with its honeycomb structure sits higher than on the A3 Sportback, bringing the crossover closer to the Q models. Unique to the allstreet, three grooves at the front and rear enhance the off-road character. At the front, the beading is integrated into the distinctive spoiler lip, which are reminiscent of a skid plate, and at the rear into the diffuser as part of the robustly designed rear bumper. The rear also echoes the design of the trapezoidal air intakes: Their high-contrast double frame in Selenite Silver and Manhattan Gray creates a strong contrast, lending the A3 allstreet a powerful appearance. The same applies to the dark rocker panel trims and the trim in the lower door areas. They visualize the increased ground clearance and also emphasize the vehicle’s length. The standard roof rails further tighten the roofline. At the same time, the wide wheel arch trims in Manhattan Gray visually shorten the overhangs. This gives the A3 allstreet a sporty, robust look. Series-standard 17-inch wheels are housed in the wheel arches, making them one dimension larger than on the A3 Sportback. Wheels in 18- and 19-inch diameter are available as an option.

Up to four selectable daytime running light signatures

With their wedge-shaped, flat form and wide light graphics, the headlights emphasize the sporty character of the A3 allstreet. For the first time in an A3 series model, it is now possible to select and switch between up to four different digital daytime running light signatures in the MMI. “This gives our customers a higher degree of personalization. They can change the expression of their model at any time. The signatures interpret self-confidence and agility in different ways,” says Cesar Muntada, Head of Design Light Experience at AUDI AG. “This is also true for the coming home home/leaving home scenarios, which were designed individually for each signature.”

On the LED and Matrix LED headlights, 24 pixel elements in three rows on the upper edge of the housing make up the digital daytime running lights. The top-of-the-line Matrix LED headlights offers especially high resolution and longer-range high beams. If the camera detects vehicles driving ahead or oncoming, they are selectively masked out while the high beams remain active in all other segments. This reduces glare and improves road illumination for increased safety and comfort. The Matrix LED headlights, which the A3 allstreet always uses in combination with the LED rear lights, also feature built-in dynamic turn signals, all-weather lights in the lower module of the headlight housing, and a dynamic coming home/leaving home function.

Three centimeters more ground clearance and improved functionality

The suspension of the A3 allstreet is 15 mm higher than the standard suspension in the A3 Sportback. Together with the larger wheel diameter, this results in 30 mm more ground clearance. As such, the A3 allstreet also offers increased comfort when entering and exiting the vehicle and better 360-degree visibility thanks to the slightly higher seat position. As with the A3 Sportback, the luggage compartment has a capacity of 380 liters, and up to 1,200 liters with the rear seat folded. Optional equipment includes an electric tailgate, a detachable hitch, and a storage and luggage compartment package. The latter offers the ability to store small objects in nets affixed to the front seat backrests or in a compartment on the driver’s side. Larger pieces of luggage are held in place by a net in the trunk.

Due to the vehicle’s higher center of gravity, the A3 allstreet features a specific spring/shock absorber tuning that offers an excellent balance of high ride comfort and a sporty, precise driving experience. The front suspension uses a McPherson design with triangular lower control arms. The rear features a multi-link rear axle with a separate spring/shock absorber arrangement. Its design enables it to handle the longitudinal and lateral forces separately, ensuring high driving stability and ride comfort. Aluminum pivot bearings reduce the unsprung masses, contributing to optimum handling and steering characteristics.

The electro-mechanical steering is responsive and precise. Power assistance adapts to the speed at which the vehicle is driving. For increased agility, progressive steering with variable ratio is available as an option. The harder the driver turns into a curve, the more direct the steering response. In city traffic and during maneuvering, this reduces steering effort; the A3 allstreet is more precise in sharp corners.

Highly connected thanks to integration of apps and functions on demand

The A3 allstreet is digital and connected – thanks to numerous connect services, functions on demand, and a store for apps. In addition to DAB+ digital radio, a touch display, the Audi virtual cockpit, and an inductive smartphone charger all come standard. In addition to the two front USB-C charging ports in the center console, there are two additional ports in the rear as standard.

MMI navigation plus, along with the complete connect portfolio and access to the store for apps, is available as an option. The navigation system shows high-resolution satellite images from Google Earth and detailed 3D models of many major European cities. Real-time traffic data from HERE, the map and navigation service provider, is used to calculate routes. The navigation system forecasts traffic developments and lane-by-lane traffic flow data, for example by informing the driver of lane closures. Points of interest are enhanced with photos, opening times, and user ratings. In addition, mass location data help to find parking spaces at the side of the road or provide information about hazards along the route. The latest news can be displayed and even read aloud right in the MMI. Free speech-to-text for SMS and emails is another feature. The package also includes online and hybrid radio. The former provides access to online stations available worldwide, while the latter automatically switches between FM, DAB, and online streaming to always ensure the best possible reception.

A store for apps is also integrated into the infotainment system, which allows the use of many applications right on the vehicle display. Thanks to the embedded store customers can directly and intuitively access popular third-party apps through the MMI touch display by means of a data link in the vehicle. The selected apps are installed in the vehicle’s infotainment system – without taking a detour via the user’s smartphone. Users can also interact with their apps via voice command. In addition, Amazon Alexa can be used to steam music, as well as to also be used to operate smart home devices.

Functions on demand ensure a high degree of flexibility. A total of five individual infotainment and comfort functions can be added online via the myAudi app, even after the vehicle has been purchased. In addition to MMI navigation plus including Audi connect services, the A3 allstreet can be upgraded with the smartphone interface, which integrates iOS and Android smartphones into the MMI system via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Other functions include adaptive cruise control, high-beam assist, and the ability to expand the standard air conditioning system with two-zone comfort air conditioning. All functions can be booked for one month, six months, one year, three years, or permanently, depending on the customer’s individual needs. If, for example, a long vacation is planned with the A3 allstreet, the navigation and adaptive cruise assistant are useful additions – for relaxed travel on long stretches of highway and targeted guidance in unfamiliar areas.

Smart assistance systems for city use and long drives

Even as standard, the A3 features a high level of safety. Audi pre sense front, Audi pre sense front, collision avoidance and turn assist, and the lane departure warning system help in avoiding accidents with other road users. Adaptive cruise assist, which assists with longitudinal and lateral control and has been supplemented by an assisted lane change function, enhances driving comfort. The system handles acceleration, braking, and steering at speeds of up to 210 km/h (130 mph), and also assists with lane changes at speeds above 90 km/h (55 mph) on highways. Activated via the MMI, the system uses data from the rear radar to display white arrows in the instrument panel and head-up display to indicate whether and in which direction it is possible to change lanes. If the driver initiates the lane change by tapping the turn signal, the system actively assists the driver in steering.

During city driving, the park assist with park assist plus helps the driver when parking and backing out of parking spaces through targeted steering maneuvers. The lane departure warning system, exit warning, and the cross-traffic assist monitor traffic behind and on the sides of the vehicle using the rear radar, thus further increasing safety and comfort.

Efficient, powerful engines

In Europe, the A3 allstreet will initially be launched in two engine/transmission versions. The 35 TFSI1 with a 1.5‑liter engine has an output of 110 kW (150 PS) and is available as an automatic version with seven-speed S tronic and mild hybrid technology. The diesel engine is a 35 TDI2 with 110 kW (150 PS) and a seven-speed S tronic.

The A3 allstreet, which rolls off the line at Audi’s Ingolstadt plant, will be available in Germany and many other European countries. Prices in Germany start at 37,450 euros for the 35 TFSI1 with 110 kW (150 PS) S tronic.

 

Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

When designing and developing the high-voltage (HV) battery for the Premium Platform Electric (PPE), Audi prioritized both range and charging performance. Sophisticated thermal management for the battery, an 800-volt electrical system, and a wide range of efficiency measures around the new electric motors make driving and charging a carefree experience. The Audi charging service and, last but not least, the Audi charging hub fast charging network in urban environments, which is becoming increasingly dense, also contribute to this.

With a state of charge (SoC) of about ten percent, just ten minutes at a fast-charging station with a maximum charging power of 270 kW is enough to replenish up to 255 kilometers (158 mi) of range under ideal conditions. An ability that is fundamentally enabled by the 800-volt architecture, the new preconditioned HV battery, and the new predictive thermal management in the PPE. The HV battery in the Audi Q6 e-tron series is made up of twelve modules and has a gross storage capacity of 100 kWh (net 94.9). After market launch, this version will be followed by another variant with ten battery modules and gross storage capacity of 83 kWh. A mere 21 minutes is enough to charge the high-voltage battery from 10 to 80 percent. High charging power over a longer period of time contributes significantly to the customer-friendly charging performance of the PPE-based models. The maximum DC charging capacity of the Audi Q6 e-tron1 in series production is 270 kW.

For charging stations working with 400-volt technology, bank charging is enabled. Corresponding high-voltage switches in the BMCe (battery management controller) are activated before the charging process begins. This divides the 800-volt battery into two batteries with equal voltage, which can then be charged in parallel with up to 135 kW. If necessary, both halves of the battery are first brought to the same state of charge and then charged in lockstep.

The charging management supports the international charging standard CSS (Combined Charging System). For fast and reliable charging, the HCP 5 high-performance computer manages the process within the new domain computer structure of the E3 1.2 electronic architecture. A communications control unit, referred to as the Smart Actuator Charging Interface Device (SACID), acts as an interface to establish a link between the vehicle and the charging station and transmits the incoming standardized information to the HCP 5 domain computer.

For the PPE models for the European market, Audi is planning DC and AC charging options via a CCS combo connector on the left rear of the vehicle. An additional AC charging connector will be installed on the opposite side of the vehicle. The Audi Q6 e-tron series charges with 11 kW alternating current as standard. This means that an empty battery is recharged overnight. AC charging with 22 kW will be offered as an option at a later date. The charging port caps can be conveniently opened electronically via the MMI display or on the cap itself with gentle pressure on its capacitive center. After the charging cable is removed, the charging port closes automatically.

“Plug & Charge” functionality is included as standard in the Q6 e-tron series. “Plug & Charge” is currently available at IONITY charging stations as well as those of other charging point operators, and will become available at more and more providers. Here it is only necessary to insert the charging cable following a one-time activation in the vehicle. Vehicle and charging station communicate via an encrypted connection. The charging process starts automatically, and billing is carried out via the means of payment saved in the myAudi App, such as a credit card.

Reliable charging infrastructure with Audi charging and Audi charging hubs

Audi customers with electric vehicles benefit from reliable charging infrastructure in the form of the Audi charging service, available since 2023, and the Audi charging hubs, quick-charging stations in urban environments that can be booked in advance. The Audi charging service offers straightforward access to a dense network of over 630,000 charging points in 29 countries within Europe. This includes more than 3,000 high power charging (HPC) stations from IONITY, which allow for rapid charging with up to 350 kW of power, primarily along major traffic routes. Anyone who buys a new fully electric Audi will be able to charge economically from day one – for the first year, Audi will pay the subscription fee of 14.99 euros a month for the Pro plan. A complete overview of all the current plans is available at www.audi.de. The service contracts can be managed conveniently using the myAudi app.

With the recently opened Audi charging hubs in Salzburg (Austria), Munich, and Frankfurt am Main (both in Germany), the network of urban charging stations equipped with second-life batteries as a buffer storage unit has grown to a total of six. Additional locations are planned.

In addition to the first Audi charging hub with a 200-square-meter lounge in Nuremberg, Germany, there are additional compact stations with four high-power-charging (HPC) charging points in Zurich (Switzerland), Berlin (Germany), Salzburg, Munich, and Frankfurt am Main, each of which allow for peak charging power of up to 320 kilowatts.

Intelligent and dynamic load control at the Audi charging hubs ensures efficient use of the existing power grid.

 
Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

Audi opens its sixth charging hub in Frankfurt am Main. At Orber Straße, the drivers of electric cars of all makes can charge their vehicles with up to 320 kW of power using four high-power-charging (HPC) stations. While their car charges, users can have an enjoyable experience at the adjacent Klassikstadt Frankfurt. Audi has partnered up with this enterprise located in a listed historical former factory that boasts an internationally renowned collection of vintage and modern classic cars and offers a range of services. Guests can choose from a wide selection of snacks, beverages, and hot meals and enjoy them in an attractive, comfortable setting. Moreover, all Audi charging hubs are designed to be barrier-free: a swivel arm, for which a patent has been registered, height-adjustable displays, and ample room for maneuvering – in a wheelchair, for example – make charging easy for all, including people with disabilities.

 

The swivel arm reduces the weight of the charging cable by around 60 percent. As a result, customers in wheelchairs can hold the CCS connector in one hand and move their wheelchair with their other hand. A CCS connector holder further optimizes operation for wheelchair users, while a canopy prevents the connector from getting wet. Furthermore, the swivel arm ensures trouble-free access to any charging sockets, whether they are located at the front, back, left, or right of the vehicle. This saves the driver from having to maneuver their vehicle into position. Automatic cable retraction prevents the charging cable from becoming a trip hazard or from blocking the way of wheelchair users. Moreover, it keeps the cable dry at all times.

“In the Frankfurt metropolitan area, we’ve got a high density of electrically powered vehicles. At the same time, the supply of charging points is constantly increasing. The charging hub is not only a welcome additional charging opportunity, but it also gives users the option to spend the waiting time at the adjacent Klassikstadt building,” says Frankfurt City Councillor Stephanie Wüst, Head of Department for Economic Affairs, Law, and City Marketing. Rapid charging in and around city centers is particularly important for drivers who cannot charge their cars at home or at work, Wüst notes.

Audi is investing in downtown charging. “In Frankfurt, we’re expecting about 5,000 charging operations per year,” says Nikolai Senst, who is responsible for managing the rollout of Audi charging hubs. “We anticipate there will be a similarly high rate of return customers as at the other locations.” In Nuremberg, where Audi has been operating an Audi charging hub with six charging points and a 200-square-meter lounge upstairs since December 2021, the return rate is approximately 70 percent. The hub is available to drivers of all brands of car. Audi customers can book a charging slot online via the myAudi app.

For the charging hub, Audi uses second-life batteries from disassembled test vehicles. As a result, Audi can use the low voltage connection available on site and does not need to install an additional transformer. With temporary storage capacity, a total of about 1.05 megawatt hours of energy is available for the four charging points – enough to hypothetically charge 60 vehicles without interruption.

Easy access for all users

To the left and right of the four charging points, there is ample room for wheelchair users to get around. Vehicle doors can be opened fully there at all times. The swivel arm attached to the upper end of the side wall makes it possible to guide the charging cable to every charging socket on the vehicle with minimal effort. The charging plug is stored in a holder at hip height to which it retracts automatically. “These are very helpful features for us wheelchair users,” says Audi customer Uwe Herrmann, who occasionally has to seek help when filling up his gasoline car. “At the charging hub, I can charge without asking strangers for help.” Moreover, height-adjustable displays make it easier for users to read information on the status and duration during and after the charging process. Audi also inspects the facilities around the Audi charging hub for possible obstacles.

“This not only makes the Audi charging hub the ideal location for people with physical impairments to quickly and conveniently charge their car, but everybody benefits from the barrier-free concept with swivel arm, ample space between charging stations, and height-adjustable displays,” says Audi brand ambassador Gerd Schönfelder, 16-time skiing gold medalist at the Winter Paralympic Games and 14-time world champion. “The swivel arm is a big help for me.” Schönfelder is an arm amputee and drives a model from the Audi Q4 e-tron series with driving aids fitted at the factory. In 2007, Audi became the first automaker to put driving aids in their configurator. “The whole package of fast-charging, comfort and convenience, and price is highly appealing,” adds Schönfelder. At HPC charging points, Audi customers pay from €0.35/kWh depending on their contract.

Virtual tips and support

Following tests in Berlin and Munich, a customer service concept is also being used for the first time in Frankfurt: Specially trained staff provide tips and assistance via camera. The support advisors can check the charging process remotely. If difficulties arise during authentication, they can point out the option of paying by credit card, for example. Audi also offers assistance with setting up Plug & Charge. The service can be accessed via a hotline. "An offer that was very well received during the test phase," says Nikolai Senst.

Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

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