2012 Audi A8 Hybrid Revealed

Audi has revealed the production version of its A8 Hybrid, first seen in 'concept' form at last year's Geneva Motor Show.

Destined for an international market debut sometime in 2012, the ultra-green A8 is powered by the Volkswagen group's 155kW and 350Nm turbocharged 2.0 litre four-cylinder petrol engine, paired with an electric motor producing 40kW and 210Nm of torque.

In all, Audi describes a "short-term system output" of 180kW and 480Nm of torque.

The parallel hybrid system sees a disc-shaped electric motor housed in front of the revised eight-speed automatic transmission, sending power to the front wheels only.

Power for the electric motor is drawn from a lithium-ion battery pack, and the A8 Hybrid's overall fuel consumption is listed at 6.4 l/100km - compared to 6.6 l/100km for the existing 3.0 TDI diesel engine. The 0-100km/h run is over in 7.7 seconds, Audi claims.

The A8 Hybrid also offers an electric-only driving range of up to three kilometres at 60km/h, although top speed in electric mode is listed at 100km/h.

In all, three driving modes are available: the above EV mode, along with Drive, which leaves control of the hybrid system to the car's computer, and a Sports mode for more spirited driving.

Australia

An Australian debut for the A8 Hybrid has not been confirmed. TMR has contacted Audi Australia for more details, watch this space.

• Click here to learn more  about the current Australian-delivered 2011 A8 line-up.