Audi to make hybrid version of its A8

Audi’s biggest saloon is to become a hybrid – the upmarket German brand has confirmed that a petrol-electric A8 will be built from next year.

The car will add an electric motor to the 2-litre TFSI petrol-engined version of the stock A8.

Total power output will be 241bhp, combined with plus-44mpg fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of under 148g/km.

The car will also have the ability to run over short distances solely on electric power, and therefore emissions-free, at speeds up to 62mph.

The motor will sit where the stock car places its torque converter, in front of the eight-speed tiptronic transmission. This has been modified to suit its new environment. The motor will be connected and disconnected from the transmission by a multi-plate clutch.

The driver will have three driving modes – EV will give the electric motor priority, D will combine it with the petrol engine and S major on acceleration.

Power for the electrics will come from a 36.7 kilo lithium-ion battery mounted in a crash-proof section of the boot.

Visually only styling details will distinguish the hybrid Audi A8 from its more traditional sister models – badging, an exclusive Arctic silver paint livery and bespoke alloy wheels with spokes resembling turbo blades.

First UK models of the A8 hybrid are expected on sale at the end of 2012.

Words by: Andrew Charman