Audi’s green future unveiled

Posted Wed Jul 18 2007 5:43 PM by Viknesh Vijayenthiran

With tighter emissions and fuel economy standards planned for both the US and Europe, most of the major carmakers are being forced to rethink and in most cased redesign their powertrain portfolios. One of the leaders in the new green initiative is Audi, which has announced that it will unveil the world’s cleanest diesel engine and undercut upcoming Euro 5 emissions standards several years in advance.

The first of the new ultra-clean diesels will be a 3.0L V6 that will debut in the next A4 and Q7 SUV. The new engine will develop 233hp and a might 500Nm of torque, and features the latest in piezoelectric injection, an efficient exhaust recirculation system for the turbo, and sensors positioned in the engine which regulate the combustion process more precisely for improved efficiency.

The next prong of attack will be the addition of more ‘e’ models, cars that increase efficiency by reducing friction, adding taller gear ratios, advanced aerodynamics, and undergoing weight saving programs. The final initiative will be the addition of full hybrid systems as well as brake energy regeneration technology.

Reader Comments

Thu Jul 19 2007 6:20 AM
HECTOR says

I'd choose one of those ultraclean diesels out of Europe any day over a hybrid. I simply don't understand how it is that proven technology like that hasn't gained a foothold in the USA. The only diesels you see are on big pick ups.
Thu Jul 19 2007 12:49 PM
Gus says

My guess is that it's twofold:

1. They still have an underserved reputation as being dirty and unreliable, based on that last wave of diesel cars back in the late 70's and early 80's (gas embargo).

2. Not every station sells diesel. People are uncomfortable having to hunt around for diesel when they are running low or running late. It's not like in Europe where absolutely every single station sells it.
Thu Jul 19 2007 8:40 PM
Gus says

Oh, and another thing, Diesel here cost EXACTLY what super-unleaded costs.
Why would anyone buy a fuel that costs the most, to have a vehicle that belches black fumes (so they think) at gas stations that don't always have it?
So there you go...

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