Audi Hybrid and More Coming by 2015

In an effort to increase its market share, Audi will boost spending and invest a total of $10.5 billion in new products and future technologies between now and 2012. According to a recent statement issued by the German luxury automaker, that investment includes a hybrid version of the Q5 SUV for 2011. When it’s officially unveiled sometime in 2010, the Q5 will be Audi’s first full hybrid vehicle.

Autoblog says the Q5 “should make a good first hybrid – especially as its size will enable Audi engineers to more easily fit an electric motor and a battery pack into its CUV proportions. Further, the Q5's somewhat hefty price tag might help hide some of the added cost associated with a hybrid powertrain.”

In addition to the Q5 Hybrid, Audi plans to launch several new models beginning next year. These will include the A1 compact, A7 hatchback, A8 and R8 Spyder. Motor Authority comments, “This means a slew of new Audi products are heading for dealerships, even though certain commentators might be convinced that the brand has already covered almost every niche.”

BusinessWeek says, “Audi, which ranks third behind BMW and Daimler's (DAI) Mercedes-Benz brand, will increase its lineup of cars and sport-utility vehicles to 42 models by 2015 from 34 now.”