Audi president Johan de Nysschen has been rather outspoken about the electrification of the automobile –first calling the Chevrolet Volt a car “for idiots” before criticizing the U.S. government for “falling in love” with electric vehicles – but despite the North American head’s sentiments, the German automaker is rapidly moving forward with its hybrid and EV plans.
The Volkswagen Group is planning a widespread hybrid and electric vehicle initiative, with Audi playing an important role in that expansion. Audi recently unveiled a hybrid version of its new A8 flagship, and is planning to follow that debut with a hybrid version of the Q5 crossover later this year and an A6 hybrid in 2012.
Also in 2012, Audi is planning to launch its first electric vehicle under the e-tron banner. Three more EVs are planned for 2013 – the E-UP, E-Golf and E-Jetta – with the electric version of the Jetta currently scheduled for U.S. availability.
“We shall offer electric power in the best possible forms for a wide range of mobility needs,” said Audi CEO Rupert Stadler. “The hybrid driveline will be followed by all-electric vehicles.”
The VW Group has set the goal of becoming the No. 1 manufacturer of hybrid and electric vehicles by 2020, so expect plenty of new hybrids over the next few years, likely based on the nameplates already slated for electrification. Additionally, Audi plans to improve the efficiencies of its internal combustion engines by 30 percent by 2020, with 5 percent of the luxury automaker’s sales coming from EVs by the same year.
References
1. ‘Audi plans expansion…’ view
