design of the Audi A8 hybrid

This near-production Audi A8 hybrid concept car has 21-inch, two-colour wheel rims styled with highly three-dimensional surface areas. The exterior paint job of the A8 hybrid is in "Prism Silver" with "Spectra Flair" as an accent color – a rainbow effect that's accentuated in reflected light along creases and seams on the body. The prominently located "hybrid" lettering on both front fenders leaves no doubt about what kind of car this is. The accentuation of its width by a prominent low horizontal spoiler edge and a chrome strip conveys the vehicle's solid stance on the road.

The engine compartment cover with its high-gloss finish and the glass cover of the battery in the trunk also provide visual links to hybrid technology. And the illuminated doorsteps bear the "hybrid" insignia as an elegant touch to underscore the electric aspect whenever the doors are opened – using LED technology to minimize energy consumption.

The passengers also see the prominent hybrid logo displayed on the dashboard. The "Powermeter" in addition shows the energy flow in the instrument cluster.

technology of the Audi A8 hybrid

The combustion engine of the Audi A8 hybrid is the 2.0 TFSI – a high-tech powerplant. This four-cylinder unit, which has been named "Engine of the Year" five times in a row since 2005, is an example of Audi's downsizing philosophy. It combines direct fuel injection with turbocharging and the AVS Audi valvelift system, which regulates the valve lift in two stages. In combination with the adjustable intake camshaft, the Audi valvelift system improves cylinder charging and ensures spontaneous and powerful torque build-up. The 2.0 TFSI delivers 155 kW (211 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft); the torque value remains constant from 1,500 to 4,200 rpm.

In the crankcase of the four-cylinder unit, which has a displacement of 1,984 cc, two balancer shafts offset second-order inertial forces to ensure virtually vibration-free and pleasantly quiet operation that goes well with the luxurious character of the A8. All components are optimized to minimize friction. The flow-rate-regulated, pressure-controlled oil pump further reduces fuel consumption.