Allroad details released

["Jouko Haapanen" <joukoh@vtoy.fi>]

The following is from the Audi AG ( www.audi.de ) pages.  Another model
aimed at SUV crazed uhmuricans...



Decision finalised: Audi allroad quattro study goes into series production
in Neckarsulm, Germany


The production base has been decided upon for the series version of the Audi
allroad quattro: in February 2000 the plant in Neckarsulm, Germany, will
start production of this new Audi model. Investment at the plant will amount
to approximately 105 million DM. Dr. Andreas Schleef, Member of the Board of
Management responsible for Personnel Affairs, said: "This decision helps to
safeguard jobs in the long term at the Neckarsulm plant. A major factor in
the decision besides commercial considerations was the know-how the plant
has acquired by building the Audi A6, the body of which will be used for the
new Audi model."


Its transfer to series production will see the new car concept retaining its
progressive character. The allroad quattro will come with three-stage,
height adjustable air suspension and a reduction-gear transmission for use
on difficult terrain. Two V6 power units are earmarked for the driveline:
the 2.7 litre V6 biturbo petrol engine and the 2.5 TDI V6. Superficially,
the new model bears little resemblance to the Audi A6 Avant from which it
takes its body, due to the reinforced bumpers at front and rear, underbody
protection, more dynamic wheel arches, contrasting sill trims and a new
radiator grille design.


The twin-pipe exhaust system with separate tailpipes at the left and right
emphasises the boldly styled rear end of the body. Large 16" wheels (17" as
optional extra) add to the visual assertiveness of this series version of
the allroad quattro.


Dr. Franz-Josef Paefgen, Chairman of the Audi AG Board of Management, says,
"With this new, versatile concept we can offer our customers a car that, on
the one hand, has the comfort of a luxury touring saloon and, on the other,
the specialist qualities of a classic off-roader, suitable for difficult
terrain and poor weather conditions." With this car Audi is launching a
model which fits into the new "allroader" category.


Three models are currently in production in Neckarsulm: the Audi A6, Audi A6
Avant and Audi A8. In 1999 production of the new Audi aluminium compact
class car will start, with an annual capacity of more than 50,000 units.
>From January to October 1998 a total of approximately 160,000 Audi cars were
built at the Neckarsulm plant, which at the moment has a workforce of 11,800
people.

 Audi AG Press Office, D-85045 Ingolstadt, Germany
Joachim Cordshagen, Tel. +49 841 89 6340, Fax. +49 841 89 6370
Axel Engel, Tel. +49 841 89 92593, Fax +49 841 89 2817