It is hard to believe that automakers once obsessed with gas-guzzling monster SUVs are now making incredible strides towards previously unthinkable fuel efficiency. An Audi executive revealed that the German automaker is working on a project known as the “1.0-litre car” that will seat four people and deliver up to 282 mpg.
In an interview with AutoCar, Wolfgang Durheimer revealed that Audi was working on an ultra-efficient car, based on the A1 platform, that would deliver outstanding fuel efficiency. The “1.0-litre car” will be both affordable and practical, using some kind of hybrid system most likely in conjunction with a small diesel engine.
While Durheimer didn’t go into any details, he did say that it won’t use parent company Volkswagen’s two-cylinder diesel that will debut in the 313 mpg XL1 two-seater. I expect we’ll see some sort of plug-in hybrid with a small diesel engine, and Durheimer goes on to add that it will have all the creature comforts you expect from an Audi…though the interior and suspension may be a bit radical in order to shed weight.
If you’ll recall, Durheimer is the same fellow who revealed that Audi was hoping to bring a diesel-hybrid supercar based on their Le Mans-winning design to market in the next few years. For my money, I’d like to see a production version of the Audi Crosslane Coupe Concept. I won’t hold my breath, but it looks like Audi will have some very interesting green cars hitting dealerships in the near future.
Source: AutoCar