Showing posts with label Audi. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Audi. Show all posts

Monday, May 10, 2010

New performance package for the Audi RS6


This latest power upgrade for the Audi RS6 comes from REIFEN KOCH who is offering a serious power boost to the already sporty German tourer.

Even though the standard production version of the Audi RS6 is powerful enough as is for most drivers with its 580HP V10, tuners of all sorts are jumping on the bandwagon lately. German firm Reifen Koch has just released a new performance package for the RS6 comprising of engine mods and new alloy wheels.

Consisting of a revised ECU, a sport air filter and a high-performance exhaust system, the package enables the twin-turbo 5.0-liter V10 engine to produce 700 PS (522 kW / 690 hp) and 790 Nm (583 lb-ft) of torque - an increase of 120 PS (89 kW / 118 hp) and 140 Nm (103 lb-ft). Thanks to the added power, the SR RS6 has a top speed of approximately 330 km/h (205 mph).

The tuner considers that the RS6 doesn’t need any visual improvement, so it has not developed an exterior kit for the vehicle. However, the tuning house offers a new set of Schmidt Revolution CC Line light alloy wheels for the car. These use a multispoke angular design and features a polished outer rim. The one-piece wheels come in a 22 inch size and are wrapped in high performance sport tires, which come in a 265/30 size.


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Press Release

700 HP and 22 inch machine of Schmidt Revolution for the AUDI RS6


Engine performance is no problem for the current AUDI RS6. The intensified variant of the RS6 from Rodalben is hardly as close to racing-sport as any other pickup with road permission. The series achievement of the sport model was raised by means of software optimization, sport air cleaner and a sport exhaust system from 580 HP to 700 HP. Parallel the maximum torque grows to 790 Nm (series of 650 Nm) and the maximum speed is with approx. 330 km/h.

Now the AUDI RS6 starts into a new round, because after the vehicle was performance-related optimized, now also dominates the sharpened Schmidt wheel set. Because the best was also here good straight enough. A still more sporty optics obtains the 22 inch wheel/tire combination, which is available for the RS6 immediately. The one-piece Schmidt Revolution CC LINE light alloy wheels with polished external bed measures not less than 10x22 inch and fills out the wheel housings with high speed tires in size 265/30 22 all around optimally. Thus place is enough for the AUDI carbon high speed brake assembly.

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Audi to show customized A1 hatchbacks at Wörthersee Tour 2010


Audi will have its own stand at the GTI meet at the Wörthersee Tour 2010 and will display a lineup of customized versions of the new Audi A1 hatchback.

The seven models have been created by Woorthersee chief designer and his team to demonstrate the ability to customize the A1 and all possible alternatives before it’s released this fall. One of the most striking designs is the FC Bayern , decorated with the colors and emblem of the German team together with the dorsal number 10 and the name of Arjen Robben to mark the place in the final of the Champions League 2010 be held in Madrid.

The entire Legends package starts at €575, but for €1,600, customers can buy the entire Competition Kit Aerodynamics, with front spoiler, chrome exhaust, side sills and rear diffuser.  Add €400 for a rear spoiler.

In addition to this model, the six custom A1s include an FC Bayern car, featuring the Number 10 of star player Arjen Robben. There's also a Citrus Yellow "Follow Me" model designed after airport ground control vehicles, a Hot Rod model, a Fashion model and finally the "Wasserwacht" and "Pickerljäger" editions, named and designed after the local water rescue and toll sticker collectors in the region.


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Press Release

Audi at "Wörthersee Tour 2010"

* Audi showing seven A1 models as spectacular "motto vehicles"

* Innovative adhesive film designs from "Follow Me" to "FC Bayern"

* 19 Audi vehicles at the 3,000 square meter stand

For the fourth year in a row, AUDI AG will have its own stand at the GTI meet at the Wörthersee and is once again expecting Audi fans from throughout Europe. The new Audi A1 is playing a leading role at the 29th Wörthersee Tour (May 12 - 15) in Reifnitz (Carinthia), Austria. Innovative adhesive film designs, vibrant paint finishes as well as exterior add-on parts and a matching interior will transform a total of seven models of the new compact car into spectacular motto vehicles. Furthermore, the Audi R8 GT, a limited-production version of the high-performance sports car, will be presented to the general public for the first time at Wörthersee shortly after its world premiere.

Standing on the southern shore of the Wörthersee (Lake Wörth) in Reifnitz is the 3,000 square meter (32,291.73 sq ft) Audi stand, where in addition to the Audi A1 and the Audi R8 GT, the company will also be presenting the new RS 5 and the R8 V10 Spyder supercar daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Audi fans will be able to get up close and personal with a total of 19 different models bearing the four-ring logo. The focus of this year's Wörthersee Tour stand is the A1 special editions.

"The Audi A1 fits in with the GTI meet because customization has always been a central topic for the Audi fans here at the Wörthersee and will also play a special role for A1 customers," says Stefan Sielaff, Head of Audi Design. Sielaff and his team have developed seven different models for the appearance at the Wörthersee, including a model sporting an "FC Bayern" look. The Audi A1 1.4 TFSI shows the design possibilities offered by add-on parts, special paint finishes and adhesive films.

This compact car has the Number 10 of FC Bayern star Arjen Robben on the roof and on the doors. The adhesive design with through-colored film and digitally printed film makes a very high-quality impression, as this technique shows off reflections to their best advantage. With the large logo of Germany's most successful soccer club on the hood, the restyled front bumper and a modified diffuser in the back, this A1 immediately stands out from the crowd. Another highlight is the sill sporting visual cues from the S line.

It is not just the exterior that differs from the production vehicle. The Audi design team also styled the interior of the motto vehicles with the attention to detail that is so typical of Audi. The A1 "competition kit" with the "legends interior plus" package, for example, is strongly based on the Audi rally vehicles from the 1980s. In addition to exterior visual cues such as the Amalfi White paint finish and the original colors of the Urquattro (Begonia Red, Stone Gray and Gray Brown), the interior also evokes memories of the racing successes racked up by quattro technology, which is celebrating its 30th birthday. The center console, the door handles, the rearview mirror - the rally design with the bold Number 1 extends thematically throughout the entire cabin. The "competition kit legends interior" and "competition kit legends interior plus" accessory packages are precisely matched to the exterior and, in contrast to the other motto vehicles, will also be available directly from the factory or in classic After Sales from Audi Genuine Accessories immediately upon market launch.

Fans from all over the world can gain an appreciation for the high quality of Audi design at the Wörthersee. The "Follow Me" design in Citrus Yellow with a black checkerboard pattern resembles airport ground control vehicles and features complex color gradients that extend to the bicolor wheels. The "Hot Rod" model boasts a matt-finish look and extremely low ride height thanks to the air suspension. Complementing this look are steel wheels with white-wall tires in keeping with the classic hot rod style.

Of course, the Audi stand would not be complete without a reference to the site of the 29th Wörthersee Tour. The design team has also given a friendly wink to the local water rescue service and "toll sticker collectors," paying them homage with the "Wasserwacht" and "Pickerljäger" A1 special editions, respectively. The seventh special model in an offbeat eggplant purple tone is described by the Audi designers as the "Fashion" edition. The central design element is an elegant checked pattern used both in the interior and on the exterior. A fascinating interplay between matt and gloss finishes provides additional highlights.

Even the start sequence for the Multi Media Interface, with an animated barrage of camera flashes and a red carpet underscore the catwalk qualities of this car.

Two production models of the Audi A1 are also at the Wörthersee, of course. The A1 1.4 TFSI in Misano Red with a dark gray contrast arch is joined at the Audi stand by the A1 1.6 TDI in summery Scuba Blue.

The first thing visitors to the Audi exhibit see is the new Audi R8 GT. The top-of-the-line version of the high-performance sports car will be presented to the general public for the first time at the Wörthersee. The R8 GT is a limited-edition version of its R8 high-performance sports car. Its 5.2-liter V10 has been increased to an output of 412 kW (560 hp). Vehicle weight was reduced by 100 kilograms (220.46 lb). The R8 GT accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 3.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 320 km/h (198.84 mph). The R8 GT is thus more powerful, even lighter and even faster. The exclusive production run is limited to 333 units. Each R8 GT sports a tag with its number on the gear lever knob.

The Audi stand at the GTI meet also features production vehicles from the current Audi model lineup. Audi is presenting an Ice Silver A8, its new flagship, to its fans at the Wörthersee. The public can also take a close look at the TT Roadster and the TT Coupé. Neckarsulm-based quattro GmbH is bringing an additional TT model to Carinthia - the 340 hp TT RS in Misano Red. Standing directly next to that is a white RS 5.

Because Audi cabriolets are a mandatory part of the program for this event, the R8 Spyder 5.2 V10 is also coming to the GTI meet. Audi Genuine Accessories is also showing a red A3 Cabriolet. With this broad lineup, the brand with the four rings is offering something for every Audi fan at the 29th Wörthersee Tour.

Audi Genuine Accessories to sell Audi A1 "competition kit"
With the A1 "competition kit legends interior plus" presented at the 29th Wörthersee Tour, Audi Genuine Accessories (AOZ) offers customers the opportunity to underscore the individuality of their vehicle with innovative adhesive filmdecals, vibrant paint finishes as well as exterior add-on parts and a matching interior.

A1 customers can order the various "competition kits" for their vehicles upon market launch. The "competition kit Aerodynamic" for the exterior comprises a front spoiler lip, side sills, rear diffuser and - depending on the vehicle configuration - sport exhaust tips. Customers can also order a roof spoiler for their A1.

A1 drivers can order the Audi A1 "competition kit legends interior plus" from Audi Genuine Accessories exactly as it was presented at the GTI meet. Audi has therefore dedicated an entire wall to the "legends" design next to the motto vehicle at its stand in Reifnitz, where fans can get complete information about the innovative concept.

For the "legends" look, Audi provides an Amalfi White finish and detailed rally-design. The front spoiler lip and rear diffuser in Begonia Red are every bit a part of the competition kit with legends graphics as the large, gloss-black Number 1 on the hood and the doors. Interior design elements also subtly refer to the Audi rally vehicles of the 1980s. Decorative bezels for the rearview mirror, air vents, door pull handles and the center console invoke Audi's rally heritage. Black cloth floor mats with Begonia Red, Stone Gray and Gray Brown strips round out the package in the footwell. The "competition kit legends interior plus" adds a striking color accent on the leather sport steering wheel, gear shift lever and parking brake lever.

The "competition kit Aeordynamic" - front spoiler lip, side sills, rear diffuser and, depending on the configuration, chrome sport exhaust tips, can be ordered upon market launch for €1,600. The body-color roof spoiler will also be available immediately for €400, but A1 customers will have to wait a few more months for the "legends" decal set. The "legends" look interior is available immediately, however, and starts at €575. The sporty look can be rounded off with modern wheels from Audi Genuine Accessories.

One highlight is the 7.5 J x 18-inch polished cast-aluminum wheel in a 5-arm polygon design finished in anthracite or black. These A1-exclusive wheels are fitted with 225/35 R19 tires.

A1 customers can order the exterior and interior accessory packages from the factory or later through After Sales. All features of the competition kits are also available separately through After Sales.

Audi models at Wörthersee Tour 2010

Audi A1 "motto vehicles":
A1 "competition kit" (Amalfi White), 1.6 TDI
A1 "Follow Me" (Citrus Yellow), 1.4 TFSI
A1 "Wasserwacht" (Suzuka Gray), 1.4 TFSI
A1 "FC Bayern" (Misano Red), 1.6 TDI
A1 "Pickerljäger" (Ibis White), 1.6 TDI
A1 "Fashion" (Aubergine), 1.6 TDI
A1 "Hot Rod" (Daytona Gray), 1.4 TFSI

Vehicle at the stand's entrance:
Audi R8 GT (Orange)

Production models:
Audi A1 (Misano Red) 1.4 TFSI; Audi A1 (Scuba Blue) 1.6 TDI; Audi RS 5 (White), Audi A8 (Ice Silver), Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro (Red), Audi TT RS Coupe (Misano Red), Audi TT Roadster (Ibis White), Audi TTS Coupe (Red)

Models customized with Audi Genuine Accessories:
Audi A3 Cabriolet (Brilliant Red), Audi A4 Avant (Ibis White), Audi A5 Sportback (Ibis White)

Sunday, May 2, 2010

2011 Audi R8 GT Revealed


The Audi R8 solidified its supercar status when it received a version of the 5.2-liter V-10 from the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4.

The R8 GT swaps in a thinner glass windshield and polycarbonate rear windows and replaces many aluminum body panels with carbon fiber. By going over every part of the R8, Audi's engineers have carved a total of 220 pounds off the standard R8's curb weight.

For those intending to really wring out their GT, Audi is offering to equip the cars with a race package that includes a bolt-in roll bar with red or black four-point belts, a fire extinguisher, and a battery kill switch. The bolt-in bar can also be upgraded to a full roll cage.

The 5.2-liter V10 has been bumped from 525 horsepower to 560, topping its cousin, the Lamborghini Gallardo. The GT is only available with the aforementioned R-Tronic hydraulically actuated semi-automatic, and when pushed to its limit, the R8 GT is claimed to accelerate to 62 miles per hour in just 3.6 seconds and on to 124 mph in 10.6 seconds. The terminal velocity has been increased to 198.8 mph.

The R8 GT is set to go on sale in Germany for €193,000.


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Press Release

Ingolstadt, 2010-05-01
The Audi R8 GT: Extreme lightweight construction and tremendous performance


* Limited-production, top-of-the-line version of the high-performance sports car
* 100 kilograms lighter, body parts in carbon
* V10 FSI with 412 kW (560 hp), 0 – 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds

Now even more powerful, lighter and faster: Audi presents a limited-production version of it R8 high-performance sports car, the R8 GT. The output of its 5.2-liter V10 has been increased to 412 kW (560 hp); vehicle weight has been reduced by roughly 100 kilograms (220.46 lb). The R8 GT accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 3.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 320 km/h (198.84 mph).

The R8 high-performance sports car has been a winner from the very beginning. This applies to both the production models, winners of the "World Performance Car" Award in 2008 (R8) and in 2010 (R8 V10), and to the race car, the R8 LMS, which won 23 races in its first season and claimed three championships. The genes of the race version are now coming to the street – in the R8 GT. The exclusive series is limited to 333 units. Each R8 GT has a badge with its production number on the shift lever knob.

Consistent use of lightweight construction: 100 kilograms (220.46 lb) trimmed
The production R8 5.2 FSI quattro is already a shining example of the Audi's lightweight construction philosophy. Its aluminum Audi Space Frame (ASF) body weighs only 210 kilograms (462.97 lb). The aluminum body panels are joined to the frame of extruded profiles and cast nodes by means of positive and friction connections. The engine frame is made of ultra lightweight magnesium.

The ASF body is largely hand-built at the Neckarsulm plant in a complex manufacturing process. The extremely high strength of the body is the basis for the high-performance sports car's precise handling, and it also offers good vibration comfort and first-rate crash safety.

Thanks to the ASF body, the production R8 5.2 FSI quattro weighs only 1,625 kilograms (3,582.51 lb) – with quattro permanent all-wheel drive and optional R tronic transmission. This made it all the more difficult for the engineers to once again achieve substantial weight savings. They took an elaborate approach involving every aspect of the vehicle, and in the end the scales came to rest at 1,525 kilograms (3,362.05 lb).

The windshield of the R8 GT is made of thinner glass; the bulkhead between the passenger cell and engine compartment, as well as the window in the rear hatch are made of strong, lightweight polycarbonate. These three modifications saved nine kilograms (19.84 lb). The fixed rear wing is good for an additional 1.2 kilograms (2.65 lb); thinner sheet metal and additional cutouts shaved 2.6 kilograms (5.73 lb) from the aluminum hatch over the 100 liter (3.53 cu ft) luggage compartment at the front of the car.

The long rear hatch is made of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) – an advantage of 6.6 kilograms (14.55 lb). The rear bumper and the sideblades of this same material save an additional 5.2 and 1.5 kilograms (11.46 and 3.31 lb), respectively. With its minimal weight and extremely high strength, CFRP is the ideal material for a high-performance sports car, and Audi has broad-based expertise in its use.

The engineers also fought to shave every possible gram of weight from the technical components of R8. They shaved one kilogram (2.20 lb) from the power brake system, four kilograms (8.82 lb) from the aluminum caps of the brake discs and 9.4 kilograms (20.72 lb) from the battery. The engineers also found 2.3 kilograms (5.07 lb) in the air intake module and 2.8 kilograms (6.17 lb) in the insulation of the engine compartment.

The interior also harbored substantial weight-savings potential. The new, lightweight carpeting accounts for 7.9 kilograms (17.42 lb); the bucket seats with a chassis of glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) account for 31.5 kilograms (69.45 lb). Numerous additional detailed measures targeted the interior, the exterior and the technology, such as higher-grade, lighter steel for the exhaust system's tailpipes.

Even sharper and more effective: the design
The design of the Audi R8 GT is the expression of concentrated power – a beautiful, technical sculpture measuring 4.43 meters (14.53 ft) long, 1.93 meters (6.33 ft) wide and only 1.24 meters (4.04 ft) high. The exterior underwent numerous modifications that further sharpened the appearance. Many of them also reduce the weight and enhance the aerodynamics. The R8 GT produces even more downforce when driven fast than the production model – without any increase in the Cd value (0.36) or frontal area (1.99 m2) (21.42 sq ft).

The frame of the single-frame grille, its struts and the slats in the air intakes are finished in matt titanium gray; the grille is painted matt black. The splitter under the bumper has a double lip and is made of carbon. Slender, curved flics at the corners of the nose increase the downforce on the front axle and are also made of a carbon fiber composite.

One highlight of the R8 GT are the standard LED headlights, which use light-emitting diodes for all functions. They produce bright, homogeneous light, have a long service life and low energy consumption. The headlights also have an attractive and distinctive appearance. The daytime running lights each comprise 24 LEDs and appear as a continuous band. The reflectors are reminiscent of open mussel shells.

The defining element of the side view are the sideblades, which direct air to the engine and in the R8 GT are also made of matte carbon. The same material is used for the reduced-size housing of the side mirrors, which are mounted on an aluminum base. The 19-inch wheels feature an exclusive five twin-spoke Y design in a titanium-look finish. The front fenders sport "GT" badges.

The modifications to the rear of the car are particularly apparent, beginning with the fixed wing of matte carbon. The ventilation louvers on both sides of the rear hatch and the CFRP bumper, which integrates the large, round tailpipes and vents for the wheel wells, have been redesigned. The larger diffuser is made of carbon fiber composite; the license plate bezel and the wide slats at the rear are in matte titanium gray. The tail lights, which also use LED technology, have dark housings with panes of clear glass.

Audi offers the R8 GT in a choice of four body colors: Samoa Orange metallic, Suzuka Gray metallic, Ice Silver metallic and Phantom Black pearl effect.

Breathtakingly powerful: the 412 kW (560 hp) 5.2 FSI
The modified V10, whose cylinder head covers are painted red, gives the Audi R8 GT breathtaking performance. The R8 GT sprints from a standing start to highway speed in 3.6 seconds, and from zero to 200 km/h (124.27 mph) in 10.8 seconds. And the thrust does not let up until the top speed of 320 km/h (198.84 mph) is reached.

Changes to the engine electronics coaxed an additional 26 kW from the ten-cylinder, which now produces 412 kW (560 hp) from a displacement of 5,204 cc. The torque curve peaks at 540 Nm (398.28 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm, 10 Nm (7.38 lb-ft) more than in the production version. The V10 has a specific power output of 79.2 kW (107.6 hp) per liter displacement. Its power-to-weight ratio is 3.70 kilograms (8.16 lb) per kW or 2.72 kilograms (6.00 lb) per hp. The engine redlines at 8,700 rpm.

The long-stroke engine (bore x stroke 84.5 x 92.8 millimeters [3.33 x 3.65 in]), which is hand-built at the factory in Györ, Hungary, features a crankcase made of a aluminum-silicon alloy that is both lightweight and very strong. A bedplate – a frame for the crankshaft bearing bridges – further enhances its rigidity. The complete engine weighs only 258 kilograms (568.79 lb). It is characterized by a cylinder angle of 90 degrees and dry-sump lubrication, which uses a highly efficient oil pump module. Both solutions lower the center of gravity and thus improve driving dynamics.

The crankshaft is designed as a common pin shaft. The connecting rods of the opposing pistons engage a common crankpin, resulting in alternating firing intervals of 54 and 90 degrees. This unique rhythm gives the V10 its fascinating sound – a grand, technical music very much like that in racing. Two flaps in the exhaust system modulate its volume and tone as a function of load and engine speed.

The normally aspirated engine consumes an average of 13.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (17.17 US mpg) – very good fuel economy given the tremendous power. The FSI gasoline direct injection system injects the fuel into the combustion chambers at up to 120 bar of pressure. The turbulent mixture cools the cylinder walls, enabling a compression ratio of 12.5:1. A variable intake manifold and the continuous adjustment of the chain-driven camshafts ensure that the combustion chambers are fully filled. Flaps in the intake ports facilitate the formation of the mixture by inducing a tumbling motion in the inflowing air.

The drivetrain: uncompromising traction
Gear changes in the R8 GT are handled by the R tronic sequential manual transmission. The electrohydraulic clutch and switching unit receive their commands electronically. It changes its six gears much faster than a skilled driver could – within a tenth of a second at high load and engine speed.

The electronic management system offers an automatic mode with the Sport and Normal characteristics, and two manual levels. It is controlled using the short gear selector lever on the center tunnel and two paddles on the steering wheel. Maximum thrust when starting is ensured by Launch Control – a program that manages full acceleration with high engine speed and minimum wheel slip when starting.

quattro permanent all-wheel drive is the ideal technology for a high-performance sports car. The central viscous coupling located at the front differential sends 15 percent of the power to the front axle and 85 percent to the rear axle during normal driving. This split harmonizes perfectly with the Audi R8 GT's 43:57 percent weight distribution. The coupling sends as much as 30 percent of the power to the front wheels within milliseconds, if necessary. A mechanical locking differential at the rear axle further improves traction. It provides up to 25 percent lockup when accelerating and up to 40 percent on the overrun.

Chassis even tauter and more precise
The Audi R8 GT high-performance sports car is a driving machine with breathtaking lateral acceleration and lightning-fast, nearly instantaneous reactions. Its engine is mid-mounted close to the vertical axis; its mass is almost negligible during fast direction changes. The R8 GT is dynamic, precise and stable in almost every situation.

The chassis follows the classic racing design – double wishbones made of aluminum locate the wheels. The hydraulic, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering has a direct 16.3:1 ratio and connects the driver closely and precisely with the road. A manually adjustable coilover suspension, which lowers the body by as much as 10 millimeters (0.39 in), is standard. Higher front and rear wheel camber rates make the handling a tick more agile than with the standard model.

The 19-inch forged wheels are 8.5 J x 19 up front and 11 J x 19 at the rear, and are shod with size 235/35 and 295/30 tires, respectively. Audi will mount 305/30 tires together with optional wheels on the rear axle upon request. Cup tires, which offer the ultimate in performance on dry roads, are available for racing enthusiasts.

Audi mounts internally ventilated, carbon fiber ceramic brake disks standard. They are extremely durable and abrasion-resistant as well as particularly lightweight. Together they weigh nine kilograms (19.84 lb) less than their steel counterparts of the same size. They measure 380 millimeters (14.96 in) in diameter up front and 356 millimeters (14.02 in) at the rear. The friction rings are bolted to the stainless steel caps via elastic elements. Red anodized aluminum brake calipers – with six pistons up front – are exclusive to the R8 GT.

The ESP stabilization program has been specially tuned to the R8 GT and can be switched into a Sport mode at the push of a button to allow spectacular, but safe, oversteer when accelerating out of a corner. The driver can deactivate the system entirely for a trip to the race track.

Exclusive and dynamic: interior and equipment
At Audi, reducing weight means increasing performance and efficiency, but not sacrifice. The Audi R8 GT, which Audi sells in Germany for €193,000, comes with an automatic climate control system and power windows, a navigation system with MMI operating logic and a powerful sound system. A 465 watt, ten-channel Bang & Olufsen sound system, a CD changer and the Audi Music Interface are available as options. As always with Audi, the interior shows loving attention to detail. Rich materials spoil the occupants with a fine look and feel.

The ergonomic interior is adorned in sporty black and dark gray. The steering wheel, the headliner, the roof posts, the knee pad, the parking brake lever and the bucket seats are covered with Alcantara accented with contrasting stitching. A synthetic sharkskin-look material that feels slightly rough to the touch is applied to the bulkhead, the door liners, the instrument cowl and the dashboard. The "monoposto" – the arch in the cockpit – is made of matt carbon.

The instrument cluster features white dials with "R8 GT" badges. The newly designed selector lever is made of CFRP and aluminum; the center tunnel and the door liners sport decorative inlays in the body color. The door sills feature trims of matt aluminum decorated with the "R8 GT" logo.

A number of exclusive features are available as options for the R8 GT. Exterior options include two alternative wheels, a body-color front splitter and a CFRP engine compartment lining. Carbon elements on the doors, the tunnel, in the cockpit and on the instrument panel are available as interior options. Others include a multifunction leather steering wheel, seat belts in red, orange or gray, floor mats with the "R8 GT" logo and CFRP door sill trims illuminated in red. If desired, Audi will fit seats with carbon frames, which are somewhat lighter than the CFRP shells. The Alcantara seat covers are optionally available with an embroidered "R8 GT" logo.

A race package is available for racing enthusiasts. It includes a bolt-in roll bar in red or black, which has both road and type approval, as well as road-approved four-point belts in red or black, a fire extinguisher and a kill switch for the battery. An optional front bar module for motorsports evens includes a rotary lock for the four-point seatbelt and turns the roll bar into a full cage. Buyers looking for more comfort and convenience can choose cell phone preparation with an innovative belt microphone. Audi also offers a full leather package, control elements in leather with contrasting stitching and a cruise control system as options. The parking aid is included with the standard equipment.

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Audi Releases “The Tony Stark Innovation Challenge”


In celebration of the April 26 world premiere of Iron Man 2 in Los Angeles, Audi of America, Inc. announced that it is launching a social media competition called “The Tony Stark Innovation Challenge” in support of its prominent presence in the film.

This is actually a social media competition which asks for the competitors to submit an up to two-minute video that displays their ideas for better living through the use of technology. The winner of the Audi Tony Stark Innovation Challenge will receive a 15,000 USD prize to fund the idea.

Tony Stark is forgoing weapons manufacturing and adopting a new business philosophy. As part of his latest venture, Tony has joined forces with the Stark Expo and Audi to challenge you to submit ideas for "Better Living through Technology."

Tony Stark will be seen throughout Iron Man 2 in his Audi R8 Spyder, the new soft top convertible version of the R8 super car which was featured in the first Iron Man. In addition to the R8 Spyder, the A8 sedan will also be showcased in the film.


Audi Tony Stark Innovation Challenge Audi Tony Stark Innovation Challenge Audi Tony Stark Innovation Challenge Audi Tony Stark Innovation Challenge Audi Tony Stark Innovation Challenge Audi Tony Stark Innovation Challenge



Press Release

Audi announces “The Tony Stark Innovation Challenge”

- Contest calls for ideas for “living better through technology”

- Winner receives $15,000 to help fund their idea and a tech-lovers’
adventure

- Social media program to support the Audi Iron Man 2 integration

HERNDON, Va., Apr 27, 2010 - In celebration of the April 26 world
premiere of Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment’s Iron Man 2 in Los
Angeles, Audi of America, Inc., announced that it is launching a social
media competition called “Stark Expo & Audi Present: The Tony Stark
Innovation Challenge” in support of its prominent presence in the film,
which releases on May 7. Beginning April 28, consumers can submit up to
two-minute videos that showcase their ideas for better living through the
use of technology, just as Tony Stark did with the Stark Expo. Participants
then must rally members of their Facebook, Twitter, MySpace and other social
media networks to rate, comment, and discuss their ideas. Full contest
information and rules are available at www.TonyStarkInnovationChallenge.com.

“Achieving progress through technology is the message behind Iron Man 2,
and this idea is fundamental to Audi,” said Scott Keogh, Chief Marketing
Officer, Audi of America. “The partnership in Iron Man 2 celebrates our
shared focus on innovation, and this contest allows anyone with a great idea
to not just express it, but potentially make a true difference within their
industry.”

“The Tony Stark Innovation Challenge” mirrors Tony Stark’s desire to take
Stark Industries in a new direction, using his vast intellect and resources
to eradicate problems through technology. Submissions will be judged by Audi
on their ability to:

• Make the world a better place by solving a problem or improving an
existing solution

• Articulate and demonstrate expertise of the “better living through
technology” philosophy

• Have a scalability and adaptability to potentially change the way we live

• Showcase innovation, adventures, and intelligence worthy of Audi and Tony
Stark

• Appeal to the general audience as viewer ratings will help determine top
entries

The winner will receive:

• $15,000 in funding to develop their concept

• Their experience documented and featured on www.audiusa.com

• A four-day trip for two to California including air transportation, hotel
and meals

• Transportation in the latest innovation from Audi, the 2011 A8

• Spa treatments, tailored cocktail attire, and grooming to perfect their
Stark style

• A tour of Audi Design Center in Santa Monica

• A VIP day with the ICON Aircraft team, joining them in flight and water
testing of the innovative ICON A5 aircraft (one of Tony Stark’s toys)

• A day at the Audi Sports Car Experience to drive Tony Stark’s favorite
car, the Audi R8 on a racetrack

Audi will also be lending its support to the film through activities
including a month-long late night TV and national cable campaign and an
online presence on Fandango.com and Movies.com. The brand is also unveilng
an all-new Audi Iron Man ad that will run in cinemas in the month leading up
to the film release. Additionally, Audi is sponsoring the re-launch of
Marvel.com that will include a digital comic book featuring the R8 Spyder.

Tony Stark will be seen throughout Iron Man 2 in his Audi R8 Spyder, the
new soft top convertible version of the R8 super car which was featured in
the first Iron Man. In addition to the R8 Spyder, the A8 sedan will also be
showcased in the film.

The video submission period starts April 28, 2010 and ends June 9, 2010.
The voting period starts April 28, 2010 and ends June 13, 2010. Approved
submissions will be posted to the site within 48 hours. Users can rate video
submissions once per day, for the length of the contest participation period
on a scale from one to five. Final ratings will be calculated toward the
final score of each entry and will help determine the grand prize winner.
Finalists will be selected shortly after the submissions end. Clearance,
notifications and interviews will take place between June 17, 2010 and June
25, 1010, and the winner will be announced the week of June 28, 2010. Prizes
will be redeemed in August 2010. Submissions are only accepted in English
and from residents of the 50 U.S. and D.C. who are 18 and over and who
possess a valid driver’s license.