We May See an Audi A8 E-Tron Plug-In Hybrid Soon
The A8 is Audi's top sedan, and an efficient plug-in hybrid could significantly expand its market. It seems like in 2019, some people will get their wish and the mighty A8 will offer an electric plug, in at least some configurations.
1. Fuel Engine Options
The 2019 Audi A8 will come infested with technology, but nothing is more notable than the addition of mild hybrid technology assisting the fuel and diesel engines. Globally, the Audi A8 will come with six different powertrain options: a 3.0-liter TFSI V6 that puts out 340-horsepower, a 4.0-liter TFSI V8 that develops 460-horsepower, and a 6.0-liter W-12 that produces 585-horsepower. As for diesel engine options, the A8 will offer a 3.0-liter TDI that puts out 286-horsepower, and a 4.0-liter TDI that develops 435-horsepower. The E-Tron version uses the TFSI V6 motor, plus electric propulsion, for a total of 449 hp when both peak.
2. Mild Hybrid Technology
All of the engine options feature Audi's mild hybrid technology to better the fuel consumption. The technology consists of a 48-volt electrical system that can power the accessory systems, and electro-mechanical suspension, and a lithium-ion battery located in the trunk. This system allows the vehicle to go into coasting mode, between approximately 34 and 99 mph, for up to 40 seconds with the fuel engine completely off. With a quick step on the gas pedal, the A8 will turn the engine on again and respond instantaneously. This is in addition to the now typical stop/start function most car utilize in stop and go traffic.
3. A8 E-Tron Quattro
The true plug-in hybrids will arrive at a later date (still unknown), and they will feature a powerful plug-in drive system that will work collaboratively with the 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine. This engine develops 340-horsepower without the electric motor, however, when they collaborate, the power can hit 449-horsepower. The battery pack allows for a range of 31-miles using just electricity, with the 126-horsepower electric motor. The system will come with a wireless charging pad for those who don't want to plug-in their Audi at home, which goes under the car on the garage floor. Just park on top of it, and the computers do the rest.
4. Luxury at its Finest
There are some other changes to the 2019 Audi A8 aside from the variety of engine options, the mild hybrid technology, and the plug-in hybrid. The exterior received quite the facelift, thanks to the new hexagonal-shaped grille, as well as the HD Matrix LED headlights with laser technology. On the inside, the A8 will be an absolute pleasure to sit in, thanks to heat and massage seats, which also can be used by back seat passengers for their feet. The infotainment system has been upgraded and now features a large 10.1-inch touch screen. The A8 is now more luxurious than ever.
5. Price and Release Date
With features like a smart suspension system with camera that monitor the road and adjusts the suspension based on the conditions, the automatic parking pilot that automatically parallel and perpendicular parks, and tons of safety features; the Audi A8 has earned its starting price tag of $103,225. The 2019 Audi A8 should hit the American market around spring or summer of 2018, however, it's not yet been announced when the E-Tron plug-in hybrid will be offered for purchase.
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