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Audi has once again upgraded its flagship family SUV with a clear design and even better technology. The fresh exterior design with new front and rear sections underscores the powerful character of the SUV, which offers first-class versatility and generous space for up to seven passengers. For the first time in a Q7, the HD Matrix LED headlights with laser as an additional high beam feature digital daytime running lights with selectable light signatures. Digital OLED rear lights with four selectable rear light designs complete the light offering. New wheels, colors, decorative inlays, and seats with contrasting stitching lend the Q family’s most versatile SUV an even higher level of customizability. The new Audi Q7 starts at 79,300 euros.

From a study to a successful production model

The Audi Q7’s journey of success began in 2003 as a concept car called the Audi Pikes Peak quattro at the North American International Motor Show. Conceived as a vehicle suitable driving on all roads and moderate off-road use, the current Q7 – which has been delighting customers worldwide for 18 years – remains true to its virtues of design, technology, and functionality. The first SUV from the brand with the four rings was unveiled to the public at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA), just in time for the 25th anniversary of the quattro permanent four-wheel drive with Torsen center differential (40:60 front/rear torque distribution). The new “superlative” in the SUV segment, as Audi put it at the launch of the Q7, combines poise, sportiness, and versatility. Since its launch, the Audi Q7 is seen as an all-rounder that combines high prestige with a wide range of applications.

Its size is imposing, its appearance princely: With a length of more than five meters (16 ft), a wheelbase of around three meters (10 ft), room for seven people, and a luggage compartment volume of up to 2,035 liters, the first generation of the Q7 immediately became the flagship in the SUV segment. From 2008 to 2012, the Q7 V12 TDI took over the top spot – with its 500 PS and 1,000 Nm of torque, it surpassed all competitors across the entire SUV segment. The V12 TDI, built at the Bratislava plant, was also the first Audi to roll off the line with a ceramic braking system as standard.

The gasoline engines on offer ranged from 272 to 350 PS, while the diesels had an output of up to 500 PS. From the start of production in 2006 to the end of production of the first generation in 2015, more than 550,000 customers opted for a first-generation Q7.

Powerful, spacious, elegant: Exterior

Following the launch of the second generation with all-wheel steering in 2015 and an initial product upgrade in 2019, the new Q7 impressively shows its robust and elegant design with a second comprehensive upgrade in 2023. The largest and most versatile SUV in the lineup of the brand with the four rings features Audi’s modern design language. With its even more minimalist form, clean surfaces, and exceptionally large volume, the Q7 stands for variability in every situation.

The overhangs and wheelbase demonstrate powerful and confident proportions that are further emphasized by distinctive exterior colors and wheels. The unmistakably upright Audi Singleframe with an octagon design now impresses with vertical inlays. They feature a teardrop shape in the base exterior and come in the shape of an L in the S line exterior, as well as for the SQ7 TFSI1. This makes it clear at first glance that the vehicle is an Audi top model and clearly differentiates it from the A models. In addition, the new interplay between the grille’s contours and the headlights, now positioned higher, makes for a completely new front-end architecture that clearly emphasizes the powerful and more present appearance of the new Q7. The Q7’s self-confident appearance is underscored by the new prominent, color-framed air intakes, which are clearly integrated into the vehicle’s basic architecture.

Audi has systematically reduced the decorative elements to give the vehicle an even clearer and more purist look. In order to distinguish the base version and S line exterior package at first glance, parts of the front bumper, door trim, and diffuser in the base model come in contrasting colors that underline the robust off-road look. All Audi Q7 engines feature an exhaust system with functional, visually appealing tailpipes. Aligned even more closely with the SQ7 TFSI1, the S line exterior package stands out with its strongly accentuated side air intakes in the front bumper, giving the vehicle an even sportier appearance.

The Singleframe is sure to impress with its independent color scheme. The optionally available Black and Black Plus optics packages set striking accents in the exterior around the Audi Singleframe, the trim on the side windows, and the front and rear bumpers. The newly designed headlights featuring HD Matrix LED technology with lasers as an additional beam light as well as the digital daytime running lights positioned on the upper horizontal edge give the Q7 an even more powerful expression. In combination with the digital OLED rear lights, which are available for the Q7 for the first time, the premium-class character of the model becomes even clearer.

Customizability at its best: Headlights and rear lights

High-intensity LED headlights light up the road in the Q7 as standard; Matrix LED headlights are available as an option. HD Matrix LED headlights with the Audi laser light are also available. They work with 24 LEDs and a high-power laser diode each and are immediately recognizable via a blue ambient light incorporated into the headlights that symbolizes the precision of laser technology. The laser light becomes active above 70 km/h (43.5 mph) and significantly increases the high beam range. New for the top-of-the-range headlights are digital daytime running light signatures. They give the Q7 its characteristic and unmistakable appearance by allowing the user to select one of four various light signatures via the MMI. However, not just the headlights’ extended range of functions is new, so is their design. The higher position of the daytime running lights gives the Q7 a wider appearance and more expressiveness. For the first time, the Q7 also features largely digitalized OLED rear lights (OLED = organic light emitting diode) as an optional extra, which also feature four digital light signatures.

In addition – as in the Audi A8, Q8, and Q5 – the digital OLED rear lights have a proximity indication feature in conjunction with the assistance systems: When other road users approach the stationary Q7 from behind to within two meters (6.6 ft), the control units automatically activate all of the digital OLED segments. Additional functions include dynamic turn signals as well as various coming home and leaving home sequences that match each digital light signature.

New decors, colors, and wheels expand the equipment range

With the latest product upgrade, Audi has once again refined the equipment range for the Q7. The seams on the seat trim in the base model now come standard and in a contrasting gray color. There are also nine decorative inlays available to choose from. New in the equipment range: Natural Elm Burl Silver for the base model, Matte Carbon Twill, and Matte Brushed Aluminum with linear embossing in silver for the Q7 with the S line sport package, as well as for the SQ7 TFSI1.

Three new finishes are available that allow customers to further personalize the Q7. For a particularly sporty appearance, the range of metallic finishes now includes Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue, and Chili Red. But customers can look forward to more new features in more than just finishes: The wheel range offers a choice of five new 20” to 22” wheel designs. Black Metallic, Gray Silk Matte with glossy black inlays or diamond-cut Black Metallic are available for 21-inch wheels and larger.

As part of the model update, Audi is also expanding the range of apps: For the first time, passengers can directly use popular apps from third-party providers (for example Spotify or Amazon music). Regular software updates and a constantly expanding range of apps make for even greater individualization of the infotainment system. A store with a market-specific app portfolio expands the third-generation modular infotainment toolkit (MIB 3).

In terms of driver assistance systems, the surroundings display in particular is receiving an upgrade. Among other things, the Audi virtual cockpit displays a lane change warning, other road users (trucks, cars, and motorcycles), distance warning, intersection assist, and traffic light info online in stunning full HD quality. In addition to the store for apps and the new surroundings display, the product upgrade also expands the standard equipment for the Q7 – standard features for the V6 combustion engines now include 19-inch alloy wheels, the gloss package with aluminum roof rails, a rearview camera with parking assist plus, and high beam assist. Other features include the comfort center armrest, smartphone interface with integrated store for apps, and Audi phone box.

Safe on every surface: Suspension with Audi’s DNA

Only an Audi drives like an Audi: This is how the brand with the four rings sums up the DNA of an Audi’s driving characteristics, and it’s no less true for the Q7. Five characteristics define the Q7’s handling: balanced, solid, controlled, precise, and effortless. The suspension, steering, drive and braking and control systems all play a key role in creating a reliably safe, confident, and comfortable driving experience. Even the standard equipment, with its balanced steel spring suspension, ensures a consistent driving experience in the Q7. The Q7 is also reliable and safe as a towing vehicle – it can tow up to 3.5 tons.

Electronically controlled air suspension with a continuously adaptive damping system – adaptive air suspension or adaptive air suspension sport (standard equipment on the SQ7 TFSI1 – are available as optional equipment. Depending on the driver’s preferences and the driving situation, the suspension adjusts the ride height by up to 90 millimeters while also offering level control. On the highway, the suspension lowers automatically by up to 30 millimeters, depending on the current speed, and by 15 millimeters with adaptive air suspension sport. During off-road driving, the “Lift” function in Audi drive select can be used to increase the ground clearance by up to 60 millimeters at low speeds. In addition, optional all-wheel steering (standard equipment on the SQ7 TFSI1) ensures an increased level of safety and comfort. At low speeds, the back wheels turn up to five degrees in the opposite direction to the front wheels. This reduces the turning radius by up to one meter (3.3 ft) and increases manageability. At the same time, the driver feels more comfort and stability at higher speeds because the back wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels. The advanced suspension package, with electromechanical active roll stabilization and all-wheel steering, is also available as an option for the V6 TFSI and TDI. To improve the Q7’s handling in everyday situations such as maneuvering in parking lots, parking garages, and the garage at home, the steering system was optimized for greater ease.

Another helpful feature is remote park assist plus: It uses the camera in combination with the radar and ultrasonic sensors to easily maneuver the Audi Q7 into tight parking spaces. Customers can control the parking maneuver using the myAudi app on their smartphone. When they’re ready to leave the parking space, customers can start the engine in the myAudi app, at which point the vehicle maneuvers out so they can enter comfortably.

Efficient and powerful: Drive systems

The range opens with the 45 TDI quattro2, a three-liter diesel engine that has 170 kW (231 PS) of output and delivers an impressive 500 Nm of torque, which extends over a plateau between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. From a standing start, the Audi Q7 45 TDI in 7.1 seconds. It has a top speed of 226 km/h (140 mph). This engine is followed by the 50 TDI quattro3, a more powerful version with 210 kW (286 PS) and 600 Nm of torque. This means the large SUV accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 241 km/h (150 mph). The Audi Q7 55 TFSI4 features a six-cylinder gasoline engine with three liters of displacement and direct fuel injection that delivers 250 kW (340 PS). It delivers a maximum torque of 500 Nm in a broad rev range from 1,370 to 4,500 rpm. With its turbocharged gasoline engine, the Audi Q7 accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.6 seconds. It reaches its electronically governed top speed at 250 km/h (155 mph).

All V6 engines in the Audi Q7 boast a towing capacity of up to 3.5 tons. This is more than enough to tow campers, horse trailers, and the like. All engines work together with an eight-speed tiptronic, quattro permanent four-wheel drive, and the mild hybrid system, which can improve fuel-consumption by up to 0.5 liters per 100 kilometers in customer operation. Its key components are a lithium-ion battery and a belt alternator starter (BAS) that supplies power to the SUV’s 48V main electrical system. Between 55 and 160 km/h (34 and 99 mph), the Q7 can coast with the engine off for up to 40 seconds when the driver takes their foot off the gas. After braking, the BAS restarts the six-cylinder quickly and effortlessly. The start–stop range starts below 22 km/h (14 mph).

Dominant in every situation: the Audi SQ7 with a V8 TFSI gas engine

Sportiness is deeply rooted in the genes of the new SQ7 TFSI1 – it impresses with a redesigned spoiler at the front and an expressive diffuser at the rear. The Singleframe stands out with vertical L-shaped inlays in a sporty color scheme. The larger air intakes feature honeycomb grilles across their surface. Characteristically, Audi opts for a sporty aluminum look for the exterior mirror housings, the inlays in the Singleframe and the edging of the side air intakes. The same color scheme is also used for the inlay in the side skirt. The Black and Black plus optics packages can also be ordered for the SQ7 TFSI1.

As part of the product upgrade, the SQ7 TFSI1 now runs on the established 4.0 TFSI with 373 kW (507 PS) and 770 Nm of torque with fast-shifting eight-speed tiptronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive. With this engine, the SQ7 TFSI1 accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.1 seconds, with an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). With its firing order of 1-3-7-2-6-5-4-8, the 4.0 TFSI provides a distinctive sporty and sonorous sound.

At low to medium loads– from 160 to 250 Nm – and engine speeds between 950 and 2,500 rpm with a maximum torque requirement of 145 Nm the cylinder on demand system deactivates cylinders 2, 3, 5, and 8 in the upper gears by shutting off injection and ignition and closing the intake and exhaust valves. The switching process takes just milliseconds and goes virtually unnoticed by the driver. In four-cylinder mode, the operating points in the active cylinders shift to higher load, which boosts thermal efficiency, while the deactivated cylinders operate, essentially with no losses, like gas springs. When the driver presses the accelerator pedal, the deactivated cylinders reactivate immediately. To achieve the sporty sound, there is an exhaust valve in the two outer tailpipes that modulates the sound depending on load and engine speed.

For an optimal driving experience, a vehicle requires not only first-class engines, but also outstanding suspension components. With the optional advanced suspension package, customers also benefit from the sport differential. When cornering at high speed, it uses two multi-disc clutches to shift the torque between the rear wheels, giving the wheel on the outside of the curve, which has the better grip, the greater share. Known as torque vectoring, this makes handling even more effortless and precise. When turning or accelerating in a curve, the large sport SUV coupé is literally pressed into the curve, minimizing the tendency to understeer. The second component in the package is electromechanical active roll stabilization (eAWS). Here, both axles are equipped with a compact electric motor coupled to a transmission. It splits the stabilizer into two halves. When driving straight, it allows them to work largely independently of each other, which reduces body movements on uneven roads. In sporty driving, however, the electric motor causes the two halves to rotate in opposite directions, thus making them work as a unit. This means the car leans into the curve significantly less, and the steering response becomes more precise.

The eAWS is powered by a 48-volt super capacitor. The compact, lightweight energy storage unit, which can absorb and release high current in a very short time, supplies the two electric motors with a maximum power of 1.5 kW each.

The Audi SQ7 TFSI1 rolls off the production line with 20-inch wheels and 285/45 tires as standard. Alternatively, other 21- and 22-inch wheels are on offer. The brake discs on the front axle have a diameter of 400 millimeters; on the rear axle they measure 350 millimeters. The black brake calipers, which come optionally in red, and, on the front axle, bear the S logo that defines Audi’s look.

Versatile and spacious: Interior

Both the five- and seven-seat versions of the Audi Q7 and SQ7 TFSI1 combine high prestige with everyday practicality. With their generous length, headroom, and elbowroom in both the front and back, both vehicles offer a first-class, airily spacious atmosphere. Depending on the position of the rear backrests, the luggage compartment in the five-seat version offers a volume of between 867 liters (backrests up) and 1,993 liters (backrests down). The tailgate is electrically powered as standard and can optionally be triggered by a foot gesture. Audi also offers the optional rear seat plus. This feature allows the length and back angle of all three seats to be individually adjusted, ensures enough space for three child seats at all times, and boasts a third row of two electrically folding seats.

The best Q7 of all times, available from 79,300 euros

The market launch of the Audi Q7 – with its revised design, innovative lighting technology, and more extensive range of equipment – will be in the first quarter of 2024. Prices for the 45 TDI quattro2 start at 79,300 euros, while the 50 TDI quattro3 costs 82,300 euros. The price for the 55 TFSI quattro4 is 82,500 euros. The sporty SQ7 TFSI1 starts at 112.000 euros.

 
Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com
 
1. Audi SQ7 TFSI SUV: Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 12,7-12,0 (18.5-19.6 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 290-272 (466.7-437.7 g/mi)
2. Audi Q7 SUV 45 TDI: Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 8,4-7,8 (28.0-30.2 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 220-204 (354.1-328.3 g/mi)
3. Audi Q7 SUV 50 TDI: Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 8,4-7,8 (28.0-30.2 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 220-204 (354.1-328.3 g/mi)
4. Audi Q7 SUV 55 TFSI: Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 11,0-10,1 (21.4-23.3 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 251-229 (403.9-368.5 g/mi)

Audi makes history: for the first time, a low-emission prototype with an electric drive, high-voltage battery and energy converter wins the world’s toughest desert rally with the Audi RS Q e-tron. The Spaniards Carlos Sainz/Lucas Cruz secured Audi’s first victory in the Dakar Rally after around 7,900 kilometers with a lead of 1h 20min. Mattias Ekström/Emil Bergkvist also crossed the finish line.

 

“Congratulations to Team Audi Sport on winning the Dakar Rally,” said Gernot Döllner, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG. “Audi has once again set a milestone in motorsport. Winning the world’s toughest desert rally with an electrified drive is a visible ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ and points the way to our electric future.” The Audi RS Q e-tron has electric all-wheel drive. The energy supply is ensured by a high-voltage battery and an energy converter that runs on residual fuel-based reFuel, thus saving 60 percent of CO2 emissions compared to conventional fuels.

 

“With our revolutionary electrified drive, we have overcome one of the biggest challenges in motorsport after just three years. We are thus continuing a long series of pioneering achievements that have always characterized Audi in four decades of motorsport. I would like to thank the entire team for this outstanding performance in a particularly tough edition of the Dakar Rally,” says Oliver Hoffmann, Member of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, Technical Development. At the Dakar Rally, Audi was up against the two brands Toyota and Ford as well as the experienced opponents from Prodrive, who proved to be tough challengers.

Carlos Sainz/Lucas Cruz secured their big lead after having been in the lead without interruption since the sixth stage. For the two Spaniards, who finished first in 2010, 2018 and 2020, this is their fourth success with a different brand, including the second from the Volkswagen Group. However, two-time World Rally Champion Sainz and his experienced co-driver could not be sure until shortly before the end. With Sébastien Loeb/Fabian Lurquin from Team BRX, they had strong pursuers who continued to close the gap until their car suffered damage on the penultimate day. “That was an overwhelming team performance,” said Head of Audi Motorsport Rolf Michl. “Everyone pulled together to make this historic result possible for Audi. A big thank you to this wonderful team. Today we have written a new chapter for Audi, but also in the history of the Dakar Rally.”

Daily stages of often more than 400 kilometers, two marathon stages with limited or even no service, as well as 4,600 timed kilometers and 7,883 kilometers in total characterized the 2024 Dakar Rally. Sharp scree and gravel roads, but also towering chains of dunes in the Empty Quarter of the Arabian Peninsula and often difficult navigation demanded everything from the teams. Carlos Sainz, who at 61 looks back on a rally career spanning around four decades, recorded a total of eight days in the lead with Lucas Cruz on the twelve stages.

The two other Audi crews had also put in a strong performance early on. The Swedes Mattias Ekström/Emil Bergkvist won the prologue at the beginning and improved to second place behind Sainz/Cruz by the rest day after six stages. However, a defect on the rear axle on the seventh stage cost them all their chances. Stéphane Peterhansel, record holder with 14 Dakar victories, was in sixth place shortly before the halfway point after his 50th stage win in the car and his 83rd overall. A defect in the hydraulic system threw him and his French compatriot Edouard Boulanger back to 22nd place on the sixth stage.

Both teams then put themselves at the service of Team Audi Sport. Head of Audi Motorsport Rolf Michl and Sven Quandt, Team Principal of the entry partner Q Motorsport, implemented a perfect strategy in a demanding 46th edition of the rally. Whether it was tactically dropping back before the second marathon stage to avoid having to open the route or supporting the leaders Carlos Sainz/Lucas Cruz, the management was able to rely on its strong driver crews at all times. The team personnel also worked tirelessly and reliably during the physically demanding, long and tough rally. Ekström/Bergkvist finished the event in the top 50.

Audi Sport has let the highly efficient Audi RS Q e-tron mature so that it is capable of winning within just three years. Under the technical direction of Dr. Leonardo Pascali, Audi Sport set the next historic milestone with the innovative drive: after the quattro all-wheel drive changed rallying forever in the 1980s and subsequently clinched victories and titles galore on the circuit, Audi demonstrated great innovative strength at Le Mans. The efficient TFSI drive, the electrified e-tron quattro all-wheel drive and individual technologies such as the LED matrix light and the Audi laser light stand for a high level of innovative strength and “Vorsprung durch Technik”. Audi’s first all-electric racing car then made its debut in Formula E, before the brand took on the extreme challenges of the Dakar Rally and successfully completed it as the first manufacturer with an electric drive.

Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

The most notable anniversaries at a glance: In the “Anniversary Dates 2024” digital booklet, Audi Tradition details this year’s anniversary highlights and summarizes over 30 historically significant events spanning products, the company, and motorsports. The booklet is now available for download in English and German from the Audi MediaCenter.

 

The anniversaries that Audi Tradition is celebrating in 2024 are as varied as the history of the brand with the four rings itself. The Audi 50 turns 50, the Auto Union GmbH in Ingolstadt turns 75, and Audi founder August Horch established his first company in Cologne 125 years ago. The anniversary booklet lists over 30 anniversaries, including a look at Audi models launched over 30 years ago receiving their “H” number plates in 2024. Among these is the Audi A8; its launch in 1994 marked Audi’s entry into the luxury class. Made in Neckarsulm and unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show, the sedan pioneered the Audi Space Frame, a body made entirely of aluminum. The iconic Avant RS2 also turns 30 in 2024. Developed as a joint project between Audi and Porsche, the Avant RS2 established the tradition of RS high-performance models. The booklet devotes an entire chapter to the RS2.

Audi Sport quattro turns 40: A powerful production car from Germany

For Audi Sport, 1984 turned out to be especially successful. The season kicked off with a victory when Walter Röhrl won the legendary Monte Carlo Rally in an Audi quattro in January. Stig Blomqvist and his co-driver Björn Cederberg went on to win the World Drivers’ title and Audi took the World Manufacturers’ title. The season ended in victory for Harald Demuth. Alongside Willy Lux, Demuth won the German Rally Champion title ahead of schedule in an Audi quattro at the International Sachs Baltic Rally, the ninth round of the German Rally Championship. French driver Michèle Mouton also raised eyebrows 40 years ago. At Pikes Peak, she drove an Audi Sport quattro to victory in the rally car class for Audi. Since homologation required a production run of 200 vehicles, the Sport quattro has been available in both road and rally versions since 1984. Often called “The Short One” due to its shortened wheelbase, the 306 PS version was the most powerful production car from Germany at the time. At the end of April 1984, the 200 Audi Sport quattro units required for homologation were completed. In early May, the Group B rally version of the Sport quattro debuted at the Corsica Rally; an entire chapter in the new anniversary booklet tells the story.

The Auto Union Grand Prix racecar turns 90: The dawn of the Silver Arrows

Half a century earlier, 90 years ago, Auto Union was already active in international motorsports: After the merger of Audi, DKW, Horch, and Wanderer in 1932, the newly formed Auto Union AG wanted to promote the new group name “Auto Union” and the distinctive four-ring emblem. Ferdinand Porsche, who had already been commissioned to build a racecar before the merger with the Wanderer factories, was asked to build a racecar for Auto Union. The result was as sensational as it was groundbreaking: The new 4.4-liter engine with 16 cylinders, a supercharger, and an output of 295 PS was mounted in the middle of the vehicle, directly behind the driver. This design gave the racecar its unusual appearance with a short front end, anticipating the drivetrain still used in Formula 1 racecars today. The Auto Union racecar made its first official appearance at the AVUS in Berlin on March 6, 1934, with Hans Stuck at the wheel. A few weeks later, on May 27, 1934, the Auto Union Type A, as it was called internally, made its debut on the international racing scene, ushering in the booming era of the Auto Union Silver Arrows.

 
Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

Audi positions itself as the sportiest manufacturer in the premium segment and has a perfect basis to do so: motorsport. Sportiness, advanced technology and emotive design are the basis for the success of the Audi brand. The genes for this have their origin in racing, since 1980.

The success story began with the Audi quattro

Excluding the era before the Second World War that included the legendary Auto Union Grand Prix race cars in the 1930s, the motorsport history of AUDI AG began with the Audi quattro. The dominant victories and two manufacturers’ and two drivers’ titles achieved with the “original quattro” in the World Rally Championship between 1982 and 1984 were an important factor in the market success of the quattro drivetrain.

quattro victorious in circuit racing as well

After Audi had turned rallying upside down and stormed up Pikes Peak (USA) with the Sport quattro in record time on three successive occasions, Audi also made the quattro drivetrain fit for circuit racing: initially with the Audi 200 quattro and the Audi 90 quattro IMSA GTO in the United States, in 1990 and 1991 with two championship titles for the Audi V8 quattro in the German Touring Car Championship (DTM), and ultimately also with the A4 in the production-based super touring cars. In 1996, the Audi A4 quattro won the championship titles in seven countries. Between 2012 and 2016, the all-wheel drive system returned to the race track as the e-tron quattro.

Audi R8 most successful Le Mans sports car in present-day racing

After the dominant quattro drivetrain was banned from touring car racing, Audi switched to sports prototypes and also underpinned its slogan “Vorsprung durch Technik” in this motorsport category for 18 years. Audi, on making its debut at Le Mans in 1999, the toughest endurance race in the world, immediately managed the leap onto the podium, finishing third overall. In the following years, the Audi R8 was in a class of its own. From 2000 to 2002, Audi achieved a historic hat-trick, not least thanks to the TFSI technology that debuted in 2001 and then also subsequently made its way into production. In 2004 and 2005, customer teams clinched two further overall victories for Audi. The R8 secured its spot in motorsport history with a total of 63 victories in 80 sports car races.

Title wins following the return to DTM

Following Laurent Aiello’s victory with the Abt-Audi TT-R in 2002, Audi returned to the DTM with a factory-backed commitment in 2004 and instantly won the title with Mattias Ekström. In 2007, the Swede triumphed again, followed by Timo Scheider in 2008 and 2009, making Audi the first and so far only automobile manufacturer in DTM history to have managed a title hat-trick. In the 2011 season, Martin Tomczyk completed the success story of the Audi A4 DTM with another title, the fifth in total for the Audi A4 DTM. In 2013, Mike Rockenfeller, diving the Audi RS 5 DTM, clinched the ninth DTM title for Audi. René Rast caused a sensation in 2017 when he clinched another title for Audi in his rookie year. Audi took home the manufacturer’s championship crown in the same year. In 2019 and 2020, Rast won the prestigious title two more times. Audi drivers have thus already won the DTM drivers’ title twelve times. Added to this are six manufacturers’ and eight teams’ titles. Technologically, Audi has mastered one of the biggest upheavals in the history of the racing series with flying colors: In the two years of the DTM turbocharged engine era, the Audi RS 5 DTM, with its highly efficient two-liter turbo engine, was the benchmark with 28 victories, 95 podium finishes, 29 pole positions and 28 fastest race laps, as well as all six of the championship titles. Since 2021, the DTM has been exclusively held for GT3 sports cars.

Pioneering achievements with TDI technology

With TDI technology, Audi achieved a pioneering feat and, at the same time, demonstrated “Vorsprung durch Technik” once again. In 2006, the Audi R10 TDI featuring a new concept was the first sports car with a diesel engine to triumph in the legendary Le Mans 24 Hours. In total, TDI technology came out winning eight times at Le Mans. In 2007 and 2008, Audi was again victorious with the R10 TDI at La Sarthe. In addition, Audi won the American Le Mans Series with the diesel-powered racing sports car three times in succession and, in 2008, the European Le Mans Series as well. With the R15 TDI in 2010, Audi celebrated a one-two-three result in the fastest Le Mans race of all time and set a new distance record that has not been broken to date. In 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014, Audi TDI power was again victorious at Le Mans. In 2014, the brand celebrated its 13th victory in just 16 participations. Audi also demonstrates “Vorsprung durch Technik” in terms of energy efficiency. During the entire TDI era, Audi reduced diesel consumption by a total of 46 percent within the space of one decade.

First hybrid winner at Le Mans

On clinching the first victory with a hybrid race car in the 2021 Le Mans 24 Hours, Audi achieved another pioneering feat in the world’s most important endurance race. The Audi R18 e-tron quattro remained unbeaten at Le Mans for three consecutive years (2012, 2013 und 2014). Many other innovations such as Audi Laser Light have been added to these pioneering feats in technology. The drivers’ and manufacturers’ titles won with the hybrid sports car in the 2012 and 2013 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) complete the track record in Audi’s sports car era that ended in 2016.

Success with electric drive concepts

The company systematically continued the electrification of its motorsport program, which began in 2012 in endurance racing. Following the LMP program with the R18 hybrid sports car, Audi was the first German car manufacturer to compete in the all-electric Formula E racing series in the 2017/2018 season. With four victories and a total of eleven podium finishes, Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler clinched the team championship after twelve races. The brand with the four rings entered the famous Dakar Rally in 2022 with an innovative prototype. Audi made history in January 2024: the Audi RS Q e-tron was the first low-emission prototype with an electric drive, high-voltage battery and energy converter to win the world’s toughest desert rally.

Entry into the premier class of motorsport

Sustainability also plays an important role in the premier class of motorsport. From the 2026 season, Audi will be competing in the FIA Formula 1 World Championship with its own factory team. The development of the drive unit (“Power Unit”) is in full swing at the Neuburg a. d. Donau site. Thanks to open competition, Formula 1 serves as a technology driver for both electric mobility and sustainable e-fuels.

Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

The manufacture of the Audi Q6 e-tron series is a collaboration across locations. The electrically powered SUV marks the first time the brand with the four rings has produced an all-electric Audi model at its headquarters in Ingolstadt. Audi is building the electric motors for the premiere Premium Platform Electric (PPE) model in Győr, Hungary. In this interview, Siegfried Schmidtner, plant manager in Ingolstadt, and Alfons Dintner, Chairman of the Board of Management of Audi Hungaria, discuss the collaboration between the two sites, the mood among employees in the light of the company’s ongoing transformation, and the future prospects for Ingolstadt and Győr.

 

Mr. Schmidtner, what’s the attitude of the workforce in Ingolstadt toward the upcoming shift to electric mobility?

Siegfried Schmidtner: Our employees are key to the transformation; I observe daily that they are incredibly positive and motivated by the shift. There is a palpable sense of optimism. We’ve been working hard to prepare for the transformation to electric mobility – so we’re ready to get going. Electric mobility represents a tremendous opportunity for Ingolstadt. We will be the pioneer for the Premium Platform Electric and the new E3 electronics architecture. We’re proud to play a vital role in shaping the company’s transformation.

What challenges do Győr and Ingolstadt face in view of the impending changes?

Alfons Dintner: Győr has been manufacturing for 30 years. The site has successfully handled numerous model launches, so it is prepared for the transformation, the changeover, and the zeitgeist. The people who work here have been with the company for a long time and are therefore very experienced. In addition, Audi Hungaria doesn’t only build engines but also entire vehicles. It has its own technical development department, in-house toolmaking shop and offers services to the whole Volkswagen Group. As a result, we have a unique responsibility within the Group because there is no other site that can provide such a broad range of services. This means transformation is nothing new for us. We have been developing, building, testing, and servicing electric drive systems since 2018. Our contribution to PPE, i.e., manufacturing perfect electric drive systems for Ingolstadt and our other Group customers, is a significant responsibility for us and, therefore, also an equally significant challenge.

Siegfried Schmidtner: The challenge we face together is clearly to achieve perfect collaboration between all the trades and locations involved. This is something we’ve been proving we can do for a very long time. Nevertheless, a new ramp-up is always exciting, and I see it as motivation for us to take each other to the next level and push ourselves to become even better. The transformation of the company is bringing us even closer together. Both sites have embarked on an all-encompassing transformation journey, from combustion engines to electric motors in Győr and here in Ingolstadt, from the complete vehicle with a combustion engine toward electric mobility – and everything that goes with it, such as the newly built battery assembly.

How and how often do you engage in dialogue with employees? What wishes, worries, and hopes have they communicated to you?

Siegfried Schmidtner: As a native of Ingolstadt, I grew up with Audi. I use every free minute to be on the production line and to chat with my employees. I also know many of them personally. An open dialogue with the team is extremely important to me. As a plant manager, you need to have a sense of what the current mood is and what concerns the workforce has. Naturally, the employees are wondering what the future of the site will look like in concrete terms and how much of it will be utilized. As for the upcoming ramp-up, we will meet the challenge together and prove that we are a really strong team. We’re approaching this task with dedication and passion.

Alfons Dintner: When we think ahead, we get our employees involved. We don’t work in an ivory tower. This also happens with the people on the line. A certain amount of skepticism can, of course, be felt in the workforce. After all, an electric motor has significantly fewer parts than an internal combustion engine. In addition, we keep hearing claims that we’ll need fewer employees for electric mobility. These are sentiments that don’t necessarily help us. But we have moved beyond this point because experience shows that production scopes don’t decrease but often shift. For example, our performance models don’t just need a single electric motor but, on average, more than two motors for the rear axle and front axle. After all, we have been successfully building electric motors since 2018. There is, of course, a degree of uncertainty in the face of change because people will sometimes find themselves working in a different role at Audi Hungaria. But we have always had employees moving from engine production to vehicle construction and vice versa. Our entire team is extremely flexible in this respect. That’s why transformation for us doesn’t necessarily involve fears. It’s a process that we can handle well.

Can you explain the specifics of the collaboration with the respective other location?

Siegfried Schmidtner: As I see it, there are two levels of collaboration. There’s a strategic exchange between the plant managers, for example, about what we can learn from each other or where we can initiate projects together. In addition, there’s the technical exchange, i.e., working groups in which we work together on subject-specific and technical topics. Győr and Ingolstadt are bound together by a long-standing tradition of extremely close collaboration, which has now lasted 30 years. I spent two years in Győr myself. People know each other; they trust each other. Our collaboration has an extremely strong foundation, and we are constantly developing it further. And that’s extremely important when it comes to driving the completely new vehicle platform with our Q6 e-tron across the proverbial finish line. The electric drive system and power electronics are vital components of this vehicle project.

Alfons Dintner: The exchange with Ingolstadt – for example, on the subject of motors – is conducted extensively between Technical Development, Quality Assurance, and the field ramp-up team. Our analysis and preproduction center also regularly receives partially equipped vehicle bodies from Ingolstadt, which we process at our facility. In other words, the collaboration works wonderfully. We have already approached 44 employees who want to accompany the ramp-up support in Ingolstadt for one year. Supporting each other is standard practice. Everyone in our production network is open to this.

Mr. Schmidtner, what signs do you think the expansion of jobs in Ingolstadt sends out?

Siegfried Schmidtner: It’s been a long time since we have hired so many new employees – 500 in all, and that’s in production alone. This is immensely beneficial for the city of Ingolstadt and for the entire region. To me, this is more than just a commitment to the location. It is job security in times of upheaval. Showing a greater commitment to the location isn’t possible – even for those who already work at Audi. At the same time, the innovative E3 architecture opens up new fields of activity. We need more electronics expertise, for example. We are elevating ourselves to the next level of vehicle engineering with significantly different technologies. We are getting much more heavily involved in the topics of connectivity, digitalization, and automation.

That’s a perfect segue to the topic of the 360factory, Audi’s vision of the future of production – how far along are the sites in terms of the goals of profitability, sustainability, flexibility, and attractiveness?

Alfons Dintner: Győr is an outstanding location. But 360factory also means manufacturing much more productively. In this respect, every site must overcome the same challenges. We are well positioned. We have opportunities during the transformation to utilize our employees according to their abilities. In terms of productivity, carbon neutrality, and quality, we are already doing very well. We were named “Best Employer in Hungary” for the ninth time this year. This underscores the fact that we’re a highly attractive employer. At Audi Hungaria, we’ve found a good balance between keeping people with the company and attracting talent at the same time.

Siegfried Schmidtner: As the Group’s headquarters, Ingolstadt will always play a pioneering role. Our aspirations are high. We want to be the most attractive automotive factory in the world. To this end, we have identified ten strategic areas we are working on very specifically. In this process, we are taking our people along with us and not simply imposing a strategy from above. I place much more emphasis on participation – after all, a strategy is only effective if it is brought to life - if implemented, and if people get actively involved. The factory is prepared, and we have amazing products. We’re all chomping at the bit and can’t wait to get the Q6 e-tron series on the road. Production of the new model started in December, and we are now gradually ramping up production.

 
Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com