Beijing Provides the Backdrop for Audi's New A6 L e-tron Concept

NASHUA, N.H. (05/01/2012)(readMedia)-- If ever there was a place that needed a luxury-class plug-in hybrid, Beijing would be it. Infamous for its hazy pollution and filled with chauffeur-driven business cars, the city recently welcomed the debut of the Audi A6 L e-tron concept at the Beijing Auto Show, where the German automaker unveiled a luxury sedan that can travel nearly 50 miles with zero emissions.

Based on the Audi A6 L, a longer version of the A6, the A6 L e-tron concept car makes use of an advanced parallel hybrid system, which includes a 2.0-liter TFSI four-cylinder engine producing 211 horsepower and a 95-horsepower electric motor. Electricity is stored in a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery pack in the rear of the vehicle, allowing up to 49.7 miles of electric-only driving at roughly 37 mph before the engine has to rev up.

"Beijing is a good reminder of why alternative drivetrains are important, and it's a fitting place for Audi to reveal a vehicle that can help reduce our dependency on fossil fuels without sacrificing performance or comfort," said Larry Bedell, general manager of Audi of Nashua, an Audi dealer in New Hampshire. "Hybrid and electric cars are going to be a major part of our future, and Audi is positioning itself as a leader in the advanced technology those vehicles will require."

Beyond the major drivetrain differences, Audi's new plug-in hybrid concept differs from the production A6 L in a few other significant ways. The front end features a bright chrome single-frame grille, as well as chromed air vents on each side of the front bumper. Bespoke 21-inch wheels and a rear diffuser also set the Audi A6 L e-tron concept apart from its peers.

Though there are no current plans to put the Audi A6 L e-tron into production, those looking for similar styling and impressive fuel economy can pick up the concept car's conventionally powered sibling at Audi dealerships. Resigned for the 2012 model year, Audi's latest A6 is capable of returning 33 mpg on the highway when equipped with the same four-cylinder gas engine found in the new hybrid concept, while a 3.0-liter V6 provides the performance-minded with 310 horsepower.

Inside the 2012 A6, premium leather upholstery and optional aluminum and wood inlays create a sophisticated look and feel, while advanced technology like the available Audi connect system keeps drivers wired in while they're on the road. Audi's infotainment system provides in-dash GPS navigation, gas prices and weather updates, news and travel info, and can even serve as a Wi-Fi hotspot for laptops, smartphones and other media devices.

"An unwillingness to settle for the status quo has made Audi one of the finest automakers in the world, and the redesigned A6 is the latest example," Bedell noted. "The A6 is a good preview of the direction that Audi plans to take in the future, and the new plug-in hybrid concept serves as proof of that."

About Audi of Nashua:

A five-time winner of Audi's prestigious Magna Society award, Audi of Nashua invites those in search of the world's finest vehicles to explore its inventory of new and used Audi cars for sale. New Hampshire Audi owners will also find a complete selection of Audi parts and accessories, as well as expert Audi service from factory-trained technicians. Discover the quality, performance and engineering that make every Audi special by checking their inventory at www.audinashua.com, liking them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/audiofnashua, or calling their dealership, located at 170 Main Dunstable Road in Nashua, N.H., at 603-578-3744.