Configurator open: pre-sales of the all-new Passat have now started

The completely newly developed ninth generation of the Passat can now be ordered in the first countries in Europe. The model impresses with a new aerodynamic design, high quality and new high-efficiency drives. Deliveries of the new Passat, which is offered exclusively as a spacious Variant model, will start in the first quarter of 2024. With more than 34 million units sold so far, the Passat is one of the bestsellers of the Volkswagen brand. New top Volkswagen duo in the mid-sized class: with the Passat and the likewise new all-electric ID.7, Volkswagen will offer two ultra-modern product lines in the high-volume mid-sized class in future. The new Passat is available with the complete spectrum of petrol (TSI), diesel (TDI), mild hybrid (eTSI) and plug-in hybrid (eHybrid) drive systems. With an electric range of up to 100 km and a DC fast charging function, the optimised eHybrid models bridge the gap to electric mobility – they are designed for all drivers who want to cover short and medium distances under electric power but want to complete long journeys without stopping to a charge. At the market launch, the new Passat will initially be offered with engines from the particularly successful 110 kW class (150 PS). In addition to a Passat “Business” 1.5 eTSI (from 44,995 euros), the entry-level version – the Passat eTSI – will also be available soon from 39,995 euros. Both are equipped with a mild hybrid drive (48-volt technology), which is used for the first time in this model series. Also on offer: a 110 kW (150 PS) 2.0 TDI (from 48,495 euros) with extensive standard equipment. Largest Passat of all times: thanks to its generous space, the new Volkswagen breaks down all the usual class boundaries. The 50 mm longer wheelbase compared with the predecessor benefits above all the legroom in the rear. With its significantly enlarged luggage compartment capacity of up to 1,920 litres (previously 1,780 litres), the new Passat is the perfect all-rounder for business and leisure. Next-generation interior: Volkswagen has completely re-designed the high-quality interior. The clearly structured, large display landscape is characterised by the standard 32 cm (12.9 inch) display, optionally available up to 38 cm (15 inches). The technical basis for this is the latest-generation modular infotainment matrix (MIB4). The new Passat shares the menu structure and graphic design with the all-electric ID. models, among others. The Passat additionally sets new standards in terms of comfort. This is particularly true in the case of the optional new adaptive chassis control (DCC Pro). Thanks to the use of two-valve shock absorbers in a Volkswagen for the first time, this system permits an unusually large spread between dynamics and comfort. The new Passat is also equipped with a Vehicle Dynamics Manager for the first time. This standard system ensures especially neutral, stable, agile and precise handling. The excellent long-distance driving comfort is enhanced further by the optionally available ergoActive seats with a new, pneumatic pressure point massage function. Basic specification with high level of standard equipment: the new Passat can be configured in the four equipment lines “Passat”, “Business”, “Elegance” and “R-Line”. They have all been significantly enhanced compared with previous versions. Thebasic specification “Passat” already includes features such as the new MIB4 display, Car2X warning system, App Connect (wireless Apple and Android integration), automatic air conditioning, USB-C ports with 45 W charging capacity at the front, black roof rails, LED headlights, LED tail light clusters and numerous assist systems. These standard systems include: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Side Assist (lane change assist) Front Assist (Autonomous Emergency Braking) Lane Assist (lane keeping system) oncoming vehicle braking when turning function Park Distance Control (acoustic and visual warning signals at the front and rear) Rear View (rear view camera system) Dynamic Road Sign Display “Business” specification for frequent drivers: In view of the fact that the Passat is one of the most successful company cars in Europe, Volkswagen is also offering the optional “Business” specification in the new generation. From the outside, this model can be recognised by chrome trim on the side windows, silver-anodised roof rails and chrome elements at the front and rear, among other things. In Germany, dark privacy glass is added for the rear windows. On the inside, the Passat Business is characterised, among other things, by seat covers in ArtVelours, own interior applications, partially electric seats with massage function, additional 45-watt USB-C ports in the rear and three-zone automatic air conditioner. Systems such as Light Assist (automatic lighting control, Park Assist (assisted driving into and out of parking spaces) and Travel Assist (partially automated driving) additionally come as standard. Also standard in Germany is the new IDA voice assistant. This can be used to control functions such as navigation or to ask general knowledge questions to obtain information such as a weather forecast, for example. “Elegance” and “R-Line” as the top versions: Volkswagen has positioned the “Elegance” and “R-Line” versions above the “Business” equipment line. With these specifications, the Passat can be made either more stylish (“Elegance”) or more dynamic (“R-Line”), depending on preference. Compared to the Business version, both lines share additional equipment details such as: the new-generation IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights with high-performance main beam (range of up to 500 m) LED tail light clusters with dynamic turn signals seat heating extended seat massage (12 instead of three pneumatic massage elements) keyless locking and starting system Keyless Access electrically operated boot lid 30-colour background lighting IDA voice control (for all markets) the new Park Assist Plus with memory function Dynamic Light Assist main-beam control system The Passat R-Line is equipped with sports seats with integrated head restraints. In the top-of-the-range R-Line Signature model, the roof pillar trims and headliner are finished in dark ArtVelours in the Passat R-Line. These features are complemented by matching aluminium decorative trims with a dark anodised finish. “Puglia” leather that has been sustainably tanned with olive-leaf extract is optionally available – this made its debut in the premium-class Touareg. The front and rear ends of the Passat R-Line have a sporty R design. Its roof and the exterior mirror caps have a sporty Black paint finish. Optional 19-inch alloy wheels. Further custom features of the top models include specific 17-inch alloy wheels (optionally 18-inch) for the Passat Elegance and 18-inch alloy wheel rims for the R-Line version. Both top versions can also be optionally ordered with 19-inch alloy wheels. Articles source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

Volkswagen electrifies the Vatican's vehicle fleet

Volkswagen is supporting the Vatican City State in its transition towards sustainable mobility. At the beginning of 2024, the company will deliver just under 40 fully electric models from its ID. family, ranging from the ID.3 to the ID.4 and ID.5. The vehicles are part of the decarbonization strategy of the VCS, aiming to make the Vatican fleet climate-neutral by 2030. Imelda Labbé, Member of the Board of Management for Sales, Marketing and After-Sales at Volkswagen Passenger Cars, and Dr. Christian Dahlheim, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Financial Services AG, have personally handed over the first two electric vehicles to the Vatican, two ID.3 Pro Performance models. The Vatican City State is strongly committed to the implementation of innovative and sustainable solutions that make it possible to reduce, in concrete terms, the impact of human activities on the environment in order to protect the planet. Mobility is at the heart of a specific program called "Ecological Conversion 2030", which aims to reduce the CO2 footprint of the state's vehicle fleet. To achieve this, the existing vehicles are to be gradually replaced by electric ones to make the entire fleet CO2-neutral by 2030. Volkswagen is the chosen partner for this project, and through Volkswagen Financial Services it will supply the Vatican State with a fleet starting from the beginning of 2024. At later stages, further zero-emission vehicles also from the Volkswagen Group brands will be progressively handed over up until the entire fleet has been completely replaced by 2030. "The electrification of fleets is becoming increasingly important across the globe. The fact that Vatican employees will now also be among our ID. drivers in the future is a great target and honor for our brand and underscores the attractiveness of our all-electric ID. models," said Imelda Labbé during the vehicle handover in Vatican City. Dr. Christian Dahlheim added: "We are delighted to support the Vatican in this important project. This is something very special for us and shows that we are absolutely competitive with our mobility solutions." Information for editors: Volkswagen Financial Services are a business division of the Volkswagen AG group of companies and comprise Volkswagen Financial Services AG along with its associated companies, Volkswagen Bank GmbH, Porsche Financial Services, and the financial services companies in the USA and Canada that belong directly or indirectly to Volkswagen AG – with the exception of the financial service business of the Scania brand and of Porsche Holding Salzburg. The key business fields embrace dealer and customer financing, leasing, bank and insurance activities, fleet management and mobility services. Volkswagen Financial Services have a total of 17,713 employees worldwide – including 7,692 alone in Germany. Volkswagen Financial Services report total assets of around EUR 240 billion, an operating profit of EUR 5.60 billion, and a portfolio of around 22.0 million current contracts (as at: 31.12.2022). More information at www.vwfs.com The Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand is present in more than 140 markets worldwide and produces vehicles at 29 locations in twelve countries. In 2022, Volkswagen delivered around 4.6 million vehicles. These include bestsellers such as the Polo, T-Roc, T-Cross, Golf, Tiguan or Passat as well as the successful all-electric models ID.3, ID.4, ID.5 and ID.6. Last year, the company handed over more than 330,000 all-electric vehicles to customers worldwide. Around 170,000 people currently work at Volkswagen worldwide. With its ACCELERATE strategy, Volkswagen is consistently driving forward its development to become the most desirable brand for sustainable mobility. Article source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

Škoda 1203: Marking 55 years since the iconic series’ debut

The Škoda 1203, a legendary vehicle of its era, was a modern and robust light commercial vehicle featuring a cab-over body design. Following 12 years of extensive development, the production-ready model was unveiled on 14 September 1968. Series production started on 20 November of the same year at the Vrchlabí plant. Over the next three decades, the vehicle was manufactured in numerous versions and designs, catering to a wide range of customer needs. Fifty-five years ago, on 20 November 1968, Škoda launched the series production of the 1203 – the culmination of a 12-year development process that set new standards in the light commercial vehicle segment. With this, the Czech carmaker expanded its offering to include a much-needed light utility vehicle with cab-over construction, addressing a gap in the Czechoslovakian market. “The Škoda 1203 is a classic utility vehicle that saw many modifications and variants. Its versatility and durability made it an integral part of life for nearly every citizen of Czechoslovakia,” explains Andrea Frydlová, head of the Škoda Museum. Navigating challenges: Škoda 1203’s birth and evolution at Vrchlabí plant The development and production of the Škoda 1203 are intrinsically linked to Škoda’s Vrchlabí plant. The state planning commission tasked the local development team with creating a completely new ‘modern large commercial vehicle’. As the era of converting passenger cars into utility vehicles and the use of the backbone chassis concept was nearing its end, the team began developing a dedicated cab-over utility vehicle with a single-box, self-supporting body in 1956. The first three prototypes, with the model designation 979 and different body styles, were unveiled in early 1957. The development of the Škoda 1203 spanned twelve years, prolonged by the inefficiencies of the centrally controlled economy. Complications also arose due to the overlap with the production of the outgoing Škoda 1202 series, further hindered by the lack of materials and different production technologies. Consequently, the start of series production was delayed until the fourth quarter of 1968. Innovative design: blending space, comfort and performance Eliminating the backbone chassis allowed the Škoda 1203 to offer exceptional interior space and extensive glazing. It boasted a modest kerb weight of just 1,170 kg and benefited from independent wheel suspension, enhancing driving comfort on uneven roads. Under the bonnet, the 1203 was equipped with a 1,221 cm3 OHV four-cylinder engine producing 35 kW (47 hp), which was derived from the Škoda 1202. Despite its modest output, this engine had to power a vehicle capable of carrying a payload of 750 kg and providing up to 5.3 m³ of cargo space. The first ‘twelve-o-three’ models, released at the end of 1968, were panel vans measuring 4,520 x 1,800 x 1,900 mm. These featured convenient side and rear hinged door access to the luggage compartment. This version could reach top speeds of 90 km/h and, when maintaining a steady speed of 60 km/h, had a fuel consumption of 11 l/100 km. Numerous variants and continuous upgrades The initial van version of the Škoda 1203 was soon complemented by an eight-seater minibus, available in both Standard and De Luxe versions, a Com half-panel van, a flatbed, an ambulance, and a hearse. Specialised modifications were also made, including several dozen vehicles tailored for veterinarians, versions designed for firefighters, and even a few prototypes of refrigerated or camping variants. In 1981, following a government decree, the production was transferred entirely to the Trnava Automobile Works (TAZ). From April 1973 until that point, it had been concurrently produced at Vrchlabí. The Škoda 1203 not only saw various conversions but also underwent continuous modernisation. A significant update came in 1988, marking its twentieth anniversary, which included the introduction of a larger 1433 cm3 engine with a 42 kW (57 hp) output, a new five-speed manual gearbox, dual-circuit brakes, and minor bodywork revisions. In 1996, the series even adopted a four-cylinder 1.9-litre diesel engine from Volkswagen. Between 1968 and 1981, Vrchlabí produced a total of 69,727 Škoda 1203s. In Trnava, around 89,000 units of various versions were manufactured until production ceased in August 1999. State-controlled supply and private demand In Czechoslovakia’s centrally planned economy, the new Škoda 1203 was exclusively available for purchase and operation by state-owned enterprises, organisations, or cooperatives. Prospective buyers had to submit applications to the State Planning Commission, where officials first evaluated and, if approved, issued a ‘balance voucher’. Only with this voucher could the respective organisation order the vehicle, pay the purchase price, and receive the manufactured car. Private citizens, however, had no access to the new Škoda 1203. Their only option was to buy these vehicles second-hand after they were retired from state service. In contrast, the Škoda 1203 was freely available in selected international markets, and it was not uncommon to see this model on the roads of France, Belgium, Egypt, and Turkey. Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

Škoda’s exhibition pavilion in the Autostadt revamped

The Škoda pavilion at the Autostadt in Wolfsburg, Germany, has been completely redesigned. A host of interactive elements introduce visitors to the rich heritage of Škoda, one of the world’s oldest car manufacturers still active today. The exhibition also offers insights into the Czech carmaker’s evolution, its strides in electromobility, and future aspirations. Initial preparations for the new exhibition concept began in January 2023. The comprehensive makeover of the Škoda pavilion in the Autostadt is now complete. It features an array of new exhibits and a refreshed look that reflects the Czech manufacturer’s updated Corporate Identity. Yet, throughout the remodelling, the exhibition has remained true to its core concept: “Ever since it opened, the Škoda pavilion has focused on both the needs of families and the expectations of the brand’s fans. This is why we have incorporated interactive exhibits as well as competitions and puzzles specifically aimed at our youngest visitors,” says Andrea Frydlová, Head of the Škoda Museum. A sports area allows visitors to engage in friendly competition on an exercise bike – either against a computer or against each other, using their pedal power to virtually recharge the battery of an all-electric Škoda Enyaq. The special children’s section includes a climbing wall, a painting area and a crossword competition. Škoda aficionados can test their knowledge about the brand and the exhibition’s content through a quiz. Exploring Škoda’s rich heritage and latest models The exhibition showcases the history of one of the world’s oldest car manufacturers still in operation and also highlights Škoda’s long and successful motorsport tradition. Visitors will encounter both new Škoda vehicles and a range of mobile and digital services. The centrepiece of the revamped exhibition is a design sculpture of a future large electric SUV model, based on the Vision 7S concept. Additionally, current models on display include the Fabia, the Scala and the Kamiq city SUV. Spotlight on product launches and sponsored sporting events The main exhibition is complemented by short-term special displays and events. For example, new Škoda models will be presented at the time of their launch, while Škoda-sponsored sporting events such as the Ice Hockey World Championship and the Tour de France will take centre stage at other times during the calendar. The Škoda pavilion at the Autostadt, which welcomed around 70,000 visitors in the first eight months of this year, is thus poised to attract many more fans of the brand in the future. For a closer look, the feature article on the Škoda Storyboard provides further information on the new Škoda pavilion in Autostadt. Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

Most compact Volkswagen SUV is better than ever: the new T-Cross is now available to order

Volkswagen is now opening pre-sales of the visually and technically enhanced T-Cross. The distinctive exterior design of the SUV has been sharpened, and the standard LED headlights and LED tail light clusters are also new. In addition, the vehicle interior features a new dash panel with higher-quality surfaces and a new infotainment system generation. At the same time, Volkswagen has extended the standard equipment of the T-Cross, of which around 1.2 million units have been sold in just three years. The most compact Volkswagen SUV is again characterised by a particularly attractive price/performance ratio. Prices in Germany for the T-Cross start at 23,250 euros. Delivery is planned to start in the first quarter of 2024. The new T-Cross will be offered with three efficient turbocharged petrol engines (TSI). They deliver 70 kW (95 PS), 85 kW (115 PS) and 110 kW (150 PS) respectively. There is a choice of four equipment lines: T-Cross, Life and the two top-of-the-range versions Style (elegant) and R-Line (sporty). The three colours Grape Yellow, Clear Blue Metallic and Kings Red Metallic are new. Versatile and spacious for family and leisure. The interior of the T-Cross impresses with its proven operating concept, well-arranged space for up to five people, a rear bench seat that can be moved by 140 mm and an extremely flexible luggage compartment. When all the seats are occupied, the T-Cross offers a luggage compartment capacity of between 385 and up to 455 litres when loaded up to the height of the rear bench seat. When the rear bench seat is folded down (60:40 split), this creates a flat load area with a stowage volume of up to 1,281 litres (loaded up to the height of the front seat backrests). In addition, the front passenger seat backrest can be folded down as standard (from the Life specification and above / only for left-hand drive vehicles). The continuous load area from the rear to the front is then 2,398 mm long and can stow everything from a surfboard to a medium-size ladder. Increased drawbar load for greater freedom when transporting e-bikes. Volkswagen has significantly increased the drawbar load of the T-Cross from 55 to 75 kg. This additional 20 kg increases the maximum load that can act vertically on the removable ball coupling (optional). The new T-Cross therefore offers greater scope towing a heavy trailer. At the same time, the maximum permitted weight of bicycles that can be transported on a carrier mounted on the ball coupling is also increased – something that is particularly important for transporting e-bikes. Travel Assist offers significantly improved comfort The new T-Cross is optionally equipped with Travel Assist for greater longitudinal and lateral vehicle control. Depending on the traffic ahead and the permitted speed, the T-Cross can control the vehicle’s speed with automatic acceleration and braking. Within the system limits, Travel Assist can also include speed limits, bends and roundabouts in its control interventions. At the same time, Lane Assist can help to keep the vehicle in its lane. The new T-Cross can automatically perform stop-and-go operations when fitted with the DSG. The T-Cross equipment variants: The significantly enhanced T-Cross base version already includes new features such as LED headlights (instead of halogen), LED tail light clusters, Dynamic Road Sign Display, a Digital Cockpit measuring 20,3 cm (8.0 inches) across the diagonal, a now floating infotainment system display (also with 20.3 cm diagonal), USB-C interfaces and Park Assist at front and rear. The base model of the product line is powered by the 70 kW TSI engine. The Life version is positioned above this. Here, the new additional equipment details include the 16-inch Nottingham alloy wheels, logo projectors in the exterior mirror housings and smartphone app integration via Mirror Link. The drive power for the T-Cross Life is also provided by the 70 kW TSI engine as standard. The base price for this version in Germany is 25,150 euros. The top versions Style and R-Line now come as standard with new technologies in the form of the IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights (R-Line: standard only in Germany) with cornering and all-weather light functions, offered for the first time in the T-Cross. The new light functions also include welcome and goodbye light animations. Additionally, both top models include as standard new 17-inch alloy wheels in specific designs (“Manila” for Style, “Valencia” for R-Line), exterior background lighting, as well as LED tail light clusters with dynamic turn signal and brake light functions. The new T-Cross Style exudes stylish elegance, while the T-Cross R-Line underlines its sporty character with its R-design bumpers. The extended infotainment equipment of the two top models include a touch display with a diagonal of 23.4 cm (9.2 inches), the 25.4 cm Digital Cockpit Pro (10 inches), App-Connect for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (Wireless & Wired) and a mobile phone interface. Both versions are powered as standard by the 85 kW TSI engine (with seven-speed DSG). The T-Cross Style is available in Germany from 29,465 euros, the T-Cross R-Line from 30,740 euros. The Life, Style and R-Line versions can be optionally ordered with the powerful 110 kW TSI Evo2 engine, which is delivered as standard in combination with a seven-speed DSG. Articles source: www.volkswagen-newsroom.com

Škoda Auto releases exterior sketches of the fourth-generation Superb

With just over a week to go before the premiere of the fourth-generation Superb, Škoda Auto has released the exterior sketches of its all-new ICE flagship. Its design incorporates elements from the new Modern Solid design language and the key features include upgraded LED Matrix beam headlights and LED rear lights with crystalline elements. The world premiere will be broadcast live on 2 November at 19:00 CET. “The Superb has traditionally shaped Škoda’s design language and the fourth model generation will continue to do just that: its looks are characterised by sharply drawn lines, clearly defined and dynamic proportions and a modern sculptural and crystalline styling.“ Oliver Stefani, Head of Škoda Design The exterior sketches show first features of the new Modern Solid design language. They thus underscore Škoda Auto’s dedication to evolving its design philosophy while at the same time staying true to the renowned brand values such as practicality and spaciousness. The even longer and taller fourth-generation Superb comes with an enhanced aerodynamic performance and numerous highlights. Among other things, the headlights have become sharper and more crystalline, headroom and luggage compartment have grown considerably. Article source: www.skoda-storyboard.com

Audi Sport GmbH: 40th anniversary insights

Today marks the 40th anniversary of Audi Sport GmbH, which evolved from quattro GmbH. In early summer, Audi started the events to celebrate this anniversary in parallel with the Nürburgring 24 Hours and an exhibition at the Neckarsulm facility. Next Saturday (October 14), an exclusive event will be hosted at Audi Forum Neckarsulm with exciting insights into the high-performance subsidiary that has been successful for 40 years. quattro GmbH has existed since 1983, and in 2016, it was renamed as Audi Sport GmbH: Today, the wholly owned subsidiary of AUDI AG is shaping the sporty and exclusive image of the premium brand with the four rings even stronger than ever. “We look back proudly on the past 40 years and want to be even stronger in the future. To this end, we will selectively expand our model portfolio and our other service offerings together with AUDI AG. The sales records of recent years clearly underline our ambitions,” says Rolf Michl, Managing Director of Audi Sport GmbH. Strengthening ties with customers and fans through direct contact On October 14, 2023, the public can enjoy an exclusive event with an informative and entertaining program in and around Audi Forum Neckarsulm. Starting at 11 a.m., Audi Sport GmbH and AUDI AG will be represented openly and personally on the factory grounds of the Neckarsulm facility. The employees of the four rings are using the highlight of this anniversary year to provide customers and fans with comprehensive information, further strengthening the bond with them through direct contact. Experienced members of the Audi Sport family such as Steffen Bamberger, Head of Technical Development at Audi Sport GmbH, and Wolfgang Schanz, Head of Production at Böllinger Höfe, will provide interesting and exciting insights into the work surrounding model development and vehicle production. The exhibition featuring “40 years of Audi Sport GmbH – Fascination meets performance”, which has been running since mid-June, also provides unique impressions and background information. Those interested will have the opportunity to take exclusive tours through the neighboring Böllinger Höfe production plant, which is part of the Neckarsulm facility. There, Audi Sport GmbH uses a combination of innovative high-tech and proven craftsmanship to manufacture its first all-electric RS model, the Audi RS e-tron GT1, as well as the high-performance sports car, the Audi R8. A number of historic and current models from the rich portfolio of Audi Sport GmbH will also be on display. A special highlight is the all-wheel-drive Audi S1 e-tron quattro Hoonitron prototype that was presented in 2022. The purely electric one-off is a reinterpretation of the original quattro of the early 1980s. In addition, the successful Audi Sport race drivers, Rinaldo “Dindo” Capello and Luca Engstler, will be on hand for talks on stage, as well as for autographs and selfies with fans. Different celebrations in front of large audiences The anniversary events, marking the 40th anniversary of Audi Sport GmbH, started in May in front of a large audience. Four Audi R8 LMS cars with legendary designs attracted the attention of around 235,000 fans at the Nürburgring 24 Hours. The expressive designs of the GT3 race cars reinterpreted unforgettable historic Audi liveries from circuit racing and rallying. A display of past and present RS models, including the Audi S1 e-tron quattro Hoonitron, thrilled the audience. Six weeks after its Nürburgring appearance, Audi continued the design theme “Past – Present – Future” with new livery designs at the 2023 Spa 24 Hours. The R8 LMS cars also took center stage in Belgium in terms of the results on track: The brand won the prestigious “Coupe du Roi” trophy as the best manufacturer in the race, which is the world’s biggest GT3 race and takes place on the famous Grand Prix circuit at Spa. At the Family Day hosted at Böllinger Höfe on July 8, tens of thousands of people experienced Audi Sport GmbH as a particularly dynamic part of the four rings, which included, for example, taking rides in the Audi R8 LMS race car and the RS Q e-tron prototype for the Dakar Rally. Sales records with future-focused model strategy The Audi RS e-tron GT ice race edition, which was presented in September 2023, is currently the creative highlight of the model program. Limited to 99 units, the special edition of the first all-electric RS model embodies a new innovative expression of individualized design. Together with the 15 other high-performance models, the RS e-tron GT represents a broad range of offerings. It is the result of Audi Sport GmbH’s largest model initiative to date, which was launched in 2019. The sales successes of recent years confirm Audi Sport GmbH’s strategy. After 2021, the company again achieved a sales record in 2022 with 45,515 vehicles sold. This represents an increase of 15.6 percent over the previous year. In addition to the development and production of high-performance models, Audi Sport GmbH is active in three other business areas: Vehicle customization (Audi exclusive, Audi Sport equipment), Audi collection (high-quality lifestyle collections, Audi stores) and motorsport (factory and customer racing). From the naming of the company and its beginnings as quattro GmbH, to pioneering model ranges like the Audi RS 6 Avant and interesting highlights like an Audi convertible for kids, to the highly flexible Böllinger Höfe production facility and the largest model portfolio in the history of the Audi subsidiary to date – these and other facets and milestones are highlighted in the collection of 40 facts about the 40 years of Audi Sport GmbH. Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com