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Maximum Efficiency All the Way to the Finish

INGOLSTADT – June 24, 2008: Powerful dynamism, stamina and endurance are just as important in sport as out on the road. To be successful, you need to use your energy as efficiently as possible: On June 23, eleven white Audi A4 2.0 TDI models took to the start in the efficiency competition organized by Audi and Auto Bild. To stand a chance of winning, however, the teams have to complete the total distance of over 1,650 kilometers (1,025.26 miles) with an average fuel consumption of under four liters (over 58.80 US mpg).

The Audi A4 with the new two-liter TDI engine and an output of 88 kW (120 hp) provides ideal conditions for fuel-efficient driving: With a combined consumption figure of just 5.1 liters per 100 kilometers (46.12 US mpg) and CO2 emissions of only 134 grams per kilometer (215.65 g/mile), the efficiency of the sportiest midsize sedan is simply outstanding. At the same time, the A4 is always capable of bringing the impressive dynamism that distinguishes every Audi onto the road.

However, participants in the Audi efficiency competition must significantly better even these impressive combined consumption figures. After all, as in any contest all that matters is the result – in this case the lowest fuel consumption.

Utmost concentration, anticipatory driving and careful use of the gas pedal are called for; furthermore, a very economical driving style will allow the Audi A4 TDI to take full advantage of its talent for saving fuel.

Both rounds of the efficiency marathon run between Basel and Vienna and back. The route is 1,650 kilometers (1,025.26 miles) long and leads through Switzerland, Germany and Austria, for the most part on freeways but also on highways and through towns and cities – and must be covered on a single tank of fuel. The Audi A4 has a fuel tank capacity of 65 liters, meaning that an average fuel consumption of under four liters (over 58.80 US mpg) is required. Incidentally, CO2 emissions in this case are approximately just 100 grams per kilometer (160.93 g/mile) – further proof of the excellent fuel-saving and performance potential of TDI technology.

This is an ambitious goal in regular traffic, but is possible with the Audi A4 TDI. Additional fuel consumption gauges are installed in the vehicles so that drivers can see the current fuel status at any time. However, what ultimately counts is how much diesel fuel is left in the tank at the finish.

The first lap is driven from June 23 to 25 from Basel to Vienna and back, upon which the victory ceremony takes place. The second round of the efficiency marathon begins on June 27 in Vienna and runs to Basel and back to Vienna, where the winners of the second round are honored.

With its outstanding consumption figures – 4.1 liters (57.37 US mpg) for the extra-urban cycle, 6.7 liters (35.11 US mpg) for the urban cycle and 5.1 liters (46.12 US mpg) combined – the new basic TDI unit in the Audi A4 demonstrates the advances made by Audi’s efficiency strategy. Its output of 88 kW (120 hp) and maximum torque of 290 Nm (213.89 lb-ft) upwards of 1,750 rpm provide impressive dynamism; top speed is 205 km/h (127.38 mph). At the same time, the two-liter TDI combined with six-speed manual transmission and common rail injection system is notable for its refined running and ride comfort.