Geneva Motorshow: Audi to launch several new TFSI e hybrid models
Audi is launching new hybrid cars at next week’s Geneva Motorshow. Badged TFSI e, the models will be hybrid variants of the A6, A7 Sportback, A8 and Q5 models forming part of the car manufacturer’s plans to offer 20 ‘electrified’ models in the line-up by 2025.
The plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) offer the obvious advantages of zero-emissions urban driving when in electric-only mode. However, they offer only limited electric-only range of more (around 40Km).
The plug-in hybrid models have the following drive modes: “EV,” “Auto,” and “Hold.” With the operating mode button, the driver can select from these three basic settings which either give priority to fully electric drive, initiate a fully automatic hybrid mode or save power for a later phase of the journey. In addition, the driver can use the familiar Audi drive select controls to toggle between the “comfort,” “efficiency,” “auto” and “dynamic” drive modes.
The optional Audi virtual cockpit and the MMI display present all important notifications concerning electric driving, including a power meter, range display and graphic illustrations depicting the system’s energy management activity in real time.
A compact charging system is also part of the standard equipment comprising cables for domestic and industrial sockets and a control panel. As an option, an attachment (“charge clip”) and a mode 3 cable for public charging stations will be available. At a charging point with an output of 7.2 kW, a full charge of the HV battery will take around two hours.
By registering for the MyAudi portal customers will be able to access services from the Audi connect portfolio via their smartphone. Using the app, they can remotely check the battery and range status, start the charging process, program the charge timer and view the charge and consumption statistics.
Another function of the myAudi app is the ability to set and activate the car’s climate control even before setting off. This is because the compressor of the air conditioning and the auxiliary heater in the vehicle work on a high-voltage basis. The customer can determine exactly how the interior should be heated or cooled while the vehicle is parked or the battery is being charged.
Depending on the respective vehicle equipment, heating of the steering wheel, seats, mirrors, windscreen and rear window as well as the seat ventilation can be also activated remotely via the pre-entry climate control. Rapid start of the climate components is also possible when unlocking the vehicle with the key.
