The electric power converter used in Audi’s plug-in concept, e-tron, is being worked into all upcoming models by 2020, including the Audi A3 and A4.

CEO Rupert Stadler said the auto maker is planning to offer the A3 e-tron plug-in by 2014:

“While we are planning small-scale series production for this car, which is a vital element in our innovation and technology plans, the electric driving experience will become a reality for a growing clientele with our plug-in hybrids,” Stadler said.

Source: EGM Car Tech

The “Big Game” (because apparently you have to pay for the term “Super Bowl” …whoops) is right around the corner, and Audi’s begun their commercial teasers once again. Last year’s ad started just as play-offs ended, but not all made it to television. With social media, companies are now able to tease their products, and Big Game ads, well before the actual event.

This year’s barrage of car commercials will be unmatched, and only topped by next year’s. But for now, check out Audi’s preview of Super Bowl Sunday!

Super Bowl XLVI will be live on Sunday, February 5, 2012.

This full 60-second ad can be seen currently on TV, with a 30-second version coming to the NFL play-offs (and possibly the Super Bowl).

Audi’s sporty Q3 Vail Concept, built off the base model, was sent to Detroit also, to wet the whistles of car fans world wide.

Audi Q3 Vail features a powerful 2.5-liter TFSI engine, capable of producing an amazing 314 horsepower.

“The concept is painted in a color developed specially for it–Energy Red, adds Motor Authority, “which contains golden pearlescent particles. Its add-on body parts are finished in matte grey quartz-based paint, and underline the vehicle’s rugged themes, while the aluminum and high-gloss black window surrounds add a touch of luxury.”

We’re excited to see production models of this Audi hatchback on North American dealership lots in late 2012.

Source: Motor Authority

Audi has said they will only produce 50 units of this A8 L W12 concept, each emblazoned individually with an identifying serial number, and “Audi Exclusive Concept” lettering. Audi A8 L W12 Exclusive will reportedly be powered by a 6.3 liter W12 gas engine, producing an astounding 493 horsepower and 461 lb-ft of torque. That’s about as powerful as the regular A8 W12 – so what makes it extra special?

A “highly-refined interior finish” complete with the best leather money can buy dons the interior. The finish comes from Italian design house Poltrona Frau.

The seats are a Cognac-colored leather, highlighted with granite gray piping. Olive ash wood inlays come in a light gray-brown veneer, in addition to a leather finish on dashboard, center console, door trims and seat consoles.

Image: WCF

Audi’s flagship and movie star thanks to The Transporter series, comes with a 2.0 TFSI gasoline engine. When combined with electric motor, A8 develops an output of 245 horsepower and 345 lb-ft of torque.

Average combined fuel consumption is under 37 US mpg. The sedan can travel at speeds of up to 62 mph on electric alone. The exterior of A8 is almost identical to the regular diesel or gas version, with the exception of a charging port and “hybrid” insignia on the trunk.

An instrument cluster, which looks like it belongs in Star Wars, informs you of all internal and external atmospheric changes. Computerized gauges tell you when (and how much) the battery is charged, and just how long you can drive on it alone.

Source: fourtitude

Audi will participate in a variety events with the awards show, along with supplying vehicles, like the A6, A7 and A8 flagship cars, to chauffeur celebrity guests. Audi will also hold a pre-awards party on September 11 in West Hollywood.

“Audi is honored to support the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences in recognizing exceptional talent in television,” said Audi of America’s head of marketing, Scott Keogh, in an Audi press release. “The brand has become a key player within the entertainment industry and has a longstanding history as a friend of the arts, making this partnership a perfect fit.”

The 63rd annual Emmy Awards will be at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, and broadcast live on the FOX.

Source: WCF

In a statement, Audi UK described the amount as “staggering.”

The specialized vehicle was auctioned off during Elton John’s annual White Tie & Tiara Ball, which drew in 700 VIP guests to the star’s home.

This A1 was customized by the artist with a “primarily pink color scheme highlighted by other pastel shades.” It was described as “fully drivable and road legal” before it came to the auction block. In addition to the car, a canvas “spin painting” by Hirst was also offered, which may prove to be more valuable than the Audi one day.

Source: Inside Line

Watch the two clips below – it’s almost as if Audi created their promotion on purpose, mimicking (or mocking) the US auto maker’s commercial:

What do you think: Is the song similar enough to give Rapper Eminem the right to sue and should Chrysler follow his lead? Did Audi create a similar ad “on accident” or maybe to take a jab at the competition?

Source: WCF

According to World Car Fans: a new report is indicating the A9 coupe could be launched as soon as 2014.

Although unconfirmed, Car Magazine says the range-topping model would be based on the A8 and built alongside the R8 at the company’s factory in Neckarsulm, Germany. Furthermore, with the redesigned Mercedes S-Class set to spawn a convertible variant, an A9 cabriolet could be in the cards for 2015.

The car will supposedly be powered by a 208 horsepower 3.0-liter V6, or an even more powerful 513 hp 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. We don’t expect to see the V8 option stateside, maybe a V6 with turbocharged engine.