Audi Set To Produce Q7 Hybrid For Euro Market

Audi announced today that it will be ready to launch its Q7 hybrid SUV late in 2008. The gas-electric hybrid SUV was jointly developed with Porsche and hinted that additional joint ventures may be in the works.

The company has set an ambitious sales target of 1.5 million vehicle sales by 2015 and plans to increase the number of models it produces by 53 % in the same time frame. When all is said and done, Audi expects to be running 40 different vehicle programs. Part of the company's strategy to do this involves increasing its modular design and standardizing components across vehicle lines to achieve an economy of scale in parts production and purchasing.

The hybrid Q7 won't be found in the US anytime soon, however. Audi has already ruled out selling the vehicle here, citing the weak dollar and low demand for gas-electric hybrids. The conventional Q7 luxury SUV carries a price tag of $45,000 to $65,000 depending upon its option package and a fuel economy rating that hovers around 15 mpg. The hybrid model offers a somewhat better mileage rating, at 24 mpg in city driving. According to the company, the Q7 hybrid can hit the 60 mph mark in 7.6 seconds.

Audi is planning to create a Q5 hybrid model, which will likely see the dealerships in North America and may possibly sport a diesel-electric power train.

Source: Motor Authority
Photo: Courtesy of Audi