Audi to launch Q7 Hybrid in 2008
The Audi Q7 was the last SUV model to launch from the platform shared with the Volkswagen Touareg and Porsche Cayenne but it looks like it will be the first to launch a hybrid version. Automotive News is reporting that Audi will start production of the hybrid Q7 in late 2008, several months after introducing the new diesel models in the US market.
The hybrid system is being developed in conjunction with VW and Porsche. They have made the system modular so that it can be adapted to other vehicles in the product lineup. Porsche has already indicated that they will use the system on the upcoming Panamera sedan in addition to the Cayenne.
In the Q7 it will be paired up with a 3.6L V-6 and should yield about 23mpg. The electric part of the drivetrain will be able to drive the vehicle at up to 31 mph and the engine can be shut off at speeds up to 75 mph when coasting.
[Source: Automotive News - Sub. req'd]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Dan Barahona 5:50PM (9/11/2007)
I'm getting sick of these 'hybrids' on vehicles weighing 5000 pounds or more. Yes, they are technically hybrids, but they sure don't follow through with the intent of hybrids - to reduce overall consumption. Going from 15 mpg in a stock model to 23 mpg in the hybrid model is good, but no where near what it ought to be. I fear these models are very effective in assuaging the 'carbon guilt' felt by those who buy/want these monsters, but actually do little to reduce overall carbon emissions.
-dan
http://www.solar4sf.org
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Joseph 7:31PM (9/11/2007)
"I fear these models are very effective in assuaging the 'carbon guilt' felt by those who buy/want these monsters, but actually do little to reduce overall carbon emissions."
These kinds of hybrids only make sense if the giant hybrid SUV is actually needed by the person. In that case, it's best thing they can buy since they need them.
However...ALOT of people who have giant SUVs don't need giant SUVs.
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Nils 6:14AM (9/12/2007)
No one person on earth needs a giant SUV. Some need pick-ups and large people-movers, but absolutely no one needs an SUV. There are only people who want SUVs. And please don't start on off-road capability. FYI: in Swiss and Scandinavian countries and other rough-terrain countries you would expect to see a lot of SUV's (cause they're rich and need them), people actually buy fairly normal cars that are 4x4. They can buy almost any car model outfitted with a 4x4. It's very funny and ironic to see a Toyota corolla 4x4 tow a Jeep Grand Cherokee on a snowy track...
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chalacuna 9:24PM (9/12/2007)
Hybrid car sales has recently at its peak in the past months. More and more people are aware and conscious about the environmental effects of pollution.
Hybrid cars are fuel effficient thus helps reduce carbon footprints.
All about hybrid cars
All about Honda cars
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