http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1093388_audi-a8-e-tron-set-for-2015-debut-report
Audi has already confirmed electrified ‘e-tron’ versions of its A3, A6 and R8 models for production, and soon we’ll be able to add the A8 flagship sedan to that list. The new A8 e-tron will be a plug-in hybrid, just like the smaller A3 e-tron, and it should be revealed early next year. It will likely replace the current A8 Hybrid sold overseas.
Auto Express reports that the A8 e-tron’s plug-in hybrid system will combine Audi’s next-gen 3.0-liter TDI V-6 with an electric drive system, potentially making it more efficient than the rival S-Class Plug-In Hybrid from Mercedes-Benz, which uses a less efficient gasoline V-6 for its internal combustion component. A plug-in hybrid version of the next-generation BWM 7-Series is also planned, and this, like the Mercedes, is expected to utilize a gasoline engine.
The plug-in hybrid system destined for the A8 e-tron will eventually appear in other large Audis, including the A6 and next-generation Q7 and possibly a rumored Q8 as well. Peak output of the system is said to be about 368 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. The electric-only driving range should be about 30 miles. There’s no word on mileage but CO2 emissions are said to be lower than 100 grams per kilometer, based on European tests.
The latest news doesn’t come as much of a surprise, as the brand with the four rings has previously confirmed it plans to eventually offer an e-tron version of every model it sells by 2020, and will be launching one new e-tron model every year until then. At present, Audi has only confirmed its A3 e-tron for sale in the U.S. The vehicle arrives next year, as a 2016 model.
