William Maley

Yeah... I didn't know you could do origami with a rock.

Mercedes-Benz USA Hits Eighth Record-Breaking Month of 2013 as Sales Top 200,000 Units Mercedes-Benz brand posts 20.5% MTD gain at 24,761 MONTVALE, N.J., Sept. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported August sales of 27,144 units, an increase of 15.8% from the 23,439 vehicles sold in August 2012 including Mercedes-Benz, Sprinter and smart models. Retail volumes for the Mercedes-Benz brand alone reached 24,761 for the month, up 20.5% from the previous year, while year-to-date sales climbed 13.0% to hit a record 190,359 units. Adding in year-to-date sales of 12,788 for Sprinter Vans and 6,312 units sold at smart brought MBUSA's year-to-date grand total to 209,459 vehicles, its highest on record. "The market is continuing to pick up steam, our sales momentum is on record pace and we have two major new products hitting the market in the next few weeks," said Steve Cannon, president and CEO of MBUSA. "At $29,900 the CLA will open a whole new gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand, and our next generation S-Class will redefine the standards of luxury and innovation for the entire industry. We're looking at a record year not only in terms of sales but also for recalibrating the Mercedes-Benz model lineup to lead the industry." August sales for the Mercedes-Benz brand were led by the C-, E- and M-Class model lines. The sporty C-Class – the current gateway to the brand on the car side for younger and first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers – took the lead at 6,701 units sold, up 2.8% from the same month in 2012. The E-Class followed with sales of 6,523 vehicles, jumping 44.5%, while MBUSA's top-selling SUV, the M-Class, rounded out the top three with sales of 3,816, up 70.1%. Strong performers at the high end included the company's legendary SL-Class roadster, posting an increase of 18.5% from August 2012. The Sprinter model line, which receives a comprehensive redesign for the 2014 model year arriving this fall, delivered month-to-date volumes of 1,390 units, while smart sales vaulted 31.9% to 993, boosted by the growing popularity of the 2013 electric drive. Sales of Mercedes-Benz's BlueTEC diesel models were 1,556 in August, increasing 104.7% from the 760 vehicles sold during the same period last year. The company's high-performance AMG models finished the month with sales of 732, up 14.9% fromAugust 2012. Separately, the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program accomplished the best sales month in its history with volumes of 9,261 in August, an increase of 33.8% when compared to August 2012 (sales of 6,921 vehicles). On a year-to-date basis, MBCPO sold 66,241 vehicles, rising 25.3% over the comparable period (52,859 vehicles) in 2012.

Toyota has Best Month in More Than Five Years With Sales Increase of Nearly 23 Percent TMS leads industry in retail sales; Camry posts sales of nearly 45,000 units TORRANCE, Calif. (Sept. 4, 2013) – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported August 2013 sales results of 231,537 units, an increase of 18.4 percent over August 2012 on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis. On a raw-volume basis, unadjusted for 28 selling days in August 2013, versus 27 selling days in August 2012, TMS sales increased 22.8 percent compared to the year-ago month. Toyota Division posted August 2013 sales of 201,745 units, up 18.4 percent year-over-year on a DSR basis. Volume wise, Toyota division sales increased 22.8 percent compared to August 2012. “The auto industry continues to be a bright spot in the economic recovery,” said Bill Fay, Toyota division group vice president and general manager. “August capped a great summer for new vehicle sales, and it was Toyota's best month in more than five years." Lexus reported August 2013 sales of 29,792 units, a year-over-year increase of 18.5 percent on a DSR basis and 22.9 percent on a raw volume basis. "August has traditionally been a big sales month for us and our Lexus dealers made it happen again, reaching a new high for the year," said Steve Hearne, Lexus vice president sales and dealer development. "Sales of the new IS sport sedan more than doubled and continues to bring new buyers into Lexus showrooms." Other Highlights: Toyota division No. 1 retail brand for sixth consecutive month Camry best-selling car in America with sales of nearly 45,000 units Prius family up 30 percent with best-ever August TMS hybrid sales increase 34 percent with more than 60 percent market share All-new Avalon posts triple-digit gains for sixth consecutive month in a row All-new RAV4 sales up 50 percent Sienna up 23 percent Tacoma leads pickup sales with 25 percent increase All-new Lexus IS up 87 percent Lexus ES luxury passenger car leader with sales of more than 7,600 units Lexus GS up 22 percent Lexus RX leads luxury utility vehicle segment with sales of more than 11,400 units

JAGUAR LAND ROVER REPORTS U.S. SALES FOR AUGUST 2013 Jaguar Land Rover North America achieves highest August sales since 2005 with 40 percent increase Jaguar U.S. boasts August sales increase of 67 percent with strong performance on XJ, XF and F-TYPE Land Rover U.S. sales increase 32 percent driven by extremely strong results for the newly launched Range Rover, Range Rover Sport and Range Rover Evoque; making it the best August sales month ever for the brand (MAHWAH, NJ) - September 4, 2013 - Jaguar Land Rover North America today reported August 2013 U.S. sales: Jaguar sales were 1,723 units, 67 percent up from 1,029 units in August 2012; Land Rover sales were 4,938 units, 32 percent up from 3,727 units in August 2012. Jaguar Land Rover North America August U.S. sales for both brands hit 6,661 units, a 40 percent increase from 4,756 in August 2012. This month marks the best Land Rover August retail sales month ever and best since 2005 for Jaguar. Year to date through August, Jaguar Land Rover North America is up 18 percent, with Jaguar up 30 percent and Land Rover up 14 percent. "It is an incredibly exciting time for Jaguar and Land Rover retailers and we are thrilled that the current pattern of strong sales performances for Jaguar Land Rover has continued, said Andy Goss, President, Jaguar Land Rover North America. "A 40 percent increase over last August is extremely creditable and shows the impact of our recent model launches of Range Rover, Range Rover Sport and F-TYPE." The all-new Range Rover Sport is in showrooms now and Jaguar will continue to expand its product offering with the XJR and XFR-S. U.S. BRAND HIGHLIGHTS Land Rover The all-new Range Rover Sport, which is arriving in showrooms now, had a very strong sales month, increasing 21 percent to 1,846 sales from 1530, to be JLRNA's U.S. monthly volume leader. Range Rover sales were 972 units, up 48 percent from 658 in August, 2012. In the 2013 J.D. Power 2013 U.S. APEAL Study, the Range Rover was the industry's highest scoring model. Range Rover Evoque was the growth leader, with an increase of 53 percent to 1,070 units from 700 units in August, 2012. Land Rover's 2013 model year line-up features five models: The 240-hp 2.0 liter powered LR2 and Range Rover Evoque; the LR4 powered by the 375-hp 5.0 liter V8; the Range Rover Sport and Range Rover, both available with the Naturally-aspirated 375-hp V8 and 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. For MY14 both the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport come equipped with a choice of supercharged 340-hp 3.0 liter V6 or 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. Jaguar For the month of August, the Jaguar XF was the Jaguar volume and growth leader with 757 units sold, up 54 percent from 493 sales in August 2012. The Jaguar XJ sales were 499 units, up 17 percent from 426 in August, 2012. After four months of retail, the exciting new Jaguar F-TYPE two seat convertible sports car sold 401 units. Year to date, Jaguar sales are 11,134, up 30 percent from 8,546 sales, with both XJ and XF sales increasing on the appeal of new powertrains and All Wheel Drive. At the 2013 New York International Auto Show, Jaguar debuted two new models, the 550-hp Jaguar XJR and Jaguar XKR-S GT, expanding its R performance lineup to six models. For MY13 the transformed Jaguar U.S. lineup includes: Instinctive All Wheel Drive™ - Available on both the XF and XJ Supercharged 340hp V6 engines in the XF and XJ Turbocharged 240hp four cylinder engine available in the XF Eight Speed ZF® Automatic Transmissions on all XF and XJ models Auto Engine Stop/Start on select XF and XJ models Jaguar's 2013 model year line-up features four models: The Jaguar XJ luxury sedan, powered by either the supercharged 3.0 liter V6 in rear wheel or all wheel drive configuration, naturally-aspirated 385-hp 5.0 liter V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8; the Jaguar XF sports sedan powered by the 240-hp 2.0 liter turbocharged four cylinder, supercharged 340-hp 3.0 liter V6 in rear wheel or all wheel drive configuration, the naturally-aspirated 385-hp 5.0 liter V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or, in the XFR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains; and the XK coupe and convertible sports cars powered by either the naturally-aspirated 385-hp V8, or for the XKR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. Jaguar also offers its highest performance models ever, the 2013 Jaguar XKR-S coupe and convertible with a 550-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrain. The 2014 MY Jaguar F-TYPE convertible comes in three variants, 340-hp F-TYPE, 380-hp F-TYPE S and 495-hp F-TYPE V8 S.

Hyundai Motor America Reports Record August Sales - Best August in company history - Premium models soar with Equus up 47 percent, Genesis up 30 percent - All-new Santa Fe up 79 percent, Elantra up 37 percent COSTA MESA, Calif., Sept. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor America today announced an all-time August sales record of 66,101 units, up eight percent versus the same period in 2012. U.S.-built Santa Fe, Sonata and Elantra continue to be in hot demand, with dealer stock levels just half of competitor levels. Fleet mix for the month was 12 percent. "You always hear about the strong summer selling months but it's still particularly gratifying to experience it first hand, as we did in August, leveraging high consumer demand with a great lineup of products to continue our string of record- breaking volume months," said Dave Zuchowski, executive vice president of national sales. "We have good momentum, innovative marketing and incentive support, excellent inventory balance, and a steadily improving economic climate so we feel pretty bullish about the final four-month home stretch of 2013." Sales of Hyundai's three core U.S.-built models – Santa Fe, Sonata and Elantra – were up a combined 18 percent, and represented 75 percent of total sales this month. The all-new Santa Fe continues its strong sales pace with a 79 percent gain over last August. Consumers continue to be drawn to Elantra, ALG's highest residual value compact car for three straight years, with sales up 37 percent to 24,700. Sonata continues to be in high demand, but sales have been constrained by production capacity limitations at the Hyundai Alabama plant which is now running a three-shift, 24-hour-a-day operating pattern to meet demand. Both Sonata and Elantra are operating with less than a 30-day supply. "With our U.S. plants setting another production record in August, our dealers are seeing some inventory relief, with more car transporters unloading fresh new Hyundai models at their dealerships," said John Krafcik, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America. "Last month, we also saw the impact of improved Genesis and Equus availability, with Equus hitting an all-time sales record with the launch of the 2014 model and Genesis sales up 30 percent." Certified Pre-Owned vehicle sales set an all-time, any-time record at 7,306, up 15 percent over August 2012. Hyundai's CPO program is recognized as one of the best in the industry, and is one of the drivers of Hyundai's 2013 top-two residual value ranking by ALG.

American Honda Posts Record August Sales Up 26.7 Percent As Year To Date Sales Top 1 Million Vehicles 09/04/2013 - TORRANCE, Calif. Best month ever for CR-V contributes to Honda brand 29.1 percent sales increase Accord, Civic and CR-V each top sales of 30,000 units in August All-new MDX breaks all-time record, boosting Acura brand sales up 9.0 percent Acura RDX posts 16th straight record month of sales Setting a new August record, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. today reported U.S. sales of 166,432 units, a total increase of 26.7 percent compared with a year ago (up 22.2 percent based on the Daily Selling Rate, or DSR*). Year-to-date sales of 1,053,449 units represent a year-over-year increase of 11.0 percent. The Honda Division posted August 2013 sales of 149,381 units, an increase of 29.1 percent compared with August 2012. Acura Division U.S. August sales of 17,051 units were up 9.0 percent compared with the prior year. Honda CR-V breaks all-time sales record set in March 2012, with sales of 34,654 up 45.1 percent compared to August 2012 Accord and Civic both top 38,000 units, with Civic posting its best August since 2009 Pilot and Ridgeline both see sixth consecutive month of double digit sales gains, contributing to a new all-time Honda light-truck record "With three of our core models topping 30,000 units and the Honda brand up more than 29 percent, our August sales definitely didn't take a break for the holiday weekend," said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales at American Honda. "We're keeping our foot on the gas as we transition into the 2014 model year including the introduction an all-new Accord Hybrid in October." Acura Acura posts a 9.0 percent sales gain, and a 27.3 percent gain in light-truck sales, setting an all-time light-truck sales record for the second straight month The all-new MDX set a new all-time record with its best month ever, up 17.1 percent RDX was up 49.7 percent with its 16th successive monthly sales record "More luxury SUV shoppers are choosing the Acura brand than ever before," said Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of Acura sales. "RDX is unstoppable after 16 straight monthly records, and the all-new MDX is already proving it's the one to beat, setting records in its first two full months of sales."

MAZDA SETS 10-YEAR SALES RECORD IN AUGUST Mazda Shows No Signs of Slowing as CX-5, Mazda6 and Mazda3 Post Strong Sales Results IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported its best August U.S. sales of 28,106 vehicles in 10 years, representing an increase of 26.4 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales through August are up 6.8 percent versus last year, with 198,026 vehicles sold. Key August sales notes: Mazda reported its best August since 2003 with 28,106 vehicles sold, accounting for a 26.4 percent increase year-over-year (YOY). SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY-equipped vehicles continue to perform very well as they accounted for 74.8 percent of all Mazda's sold in August. To help support demand, Mazda recently announced increased production on SKYACTIV Engines and Transmissions and has stated production will reach 1.1 million units by July 2014. CX-5 had its best month ever with 8,506 vehicles sold, accounting for a 82.3 percent increase YOY. Mazda6 continues to outpace expectations with 4,249 vehicles sold, representing an increase of 166.9 percent YOY. Mazda3 had its best month of sales since September 2012 with 11,031 vehicles sold in August 2013. The first units of the all-new 2014 Mazda3 started arriving in dealers on August 21, 2013, and although inventory is tight, response from customers and dealers has been very positive. Even as Summer is winding down, MX-5 Miata showed a YOY increase of 3.2 percent with 578 vehicles sold in August 2013.

BMW Group U.S. Reports August 2013 Sales BMW brand sales up 45.7 percent MINI brand sales up 5.3 percent, best August ever Woodcliff Lake, NJ - September 4, 2013… The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported August sales of 30,546 vehicles, an increase of 35.4 percent from the 22,553 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, the BMW Group (BMW and MINI combined) is up 12 percent on sales of 233,326 in the first eight months of 2013 compared to 208,268 in the same period in 2012. “This has been a summer of momentum, giving us a good tail-wind as we enter the all-important autumn selling season,” said Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO, BMW of North America, LLC. “The sales records set before the financial crisis continue to fall and with the arrival of the new X5 and the new 4 Series Coupe in the next couple of months, we are heading towards a strong finish for the year.” BMW Brand Sales Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 45.7 percent in August for a total of 24,523 compared to 16,835 vehicles sold in August, 2012. Year-to-date, the BMW brand is up 14.8 percent on sales of 188,997 compared to 164,636 sold in the first eight months of 2012. In August, best performing vehicles included the 3 Series, up 66.9 percent to 10,357 units; the 5 Series, up 158.2 percent to 4,359 units; the 6 Series, up 67.8 percent to 760 units and the 7 Series, up 172.6 percent to 924 units. BMW Pre-Owned Vehicles In August, sales of BMW used vehicles (including certified pre-owned and pre-owned) increased 19.2 percent to 16,706 vehicles compared to the 14,012 vehicles sold in August, 2012. January through August, BMW used vehicle sales are up 8.5 percent on volume of 118,259 compared to 108,952 in the same period of 2012. MINI Brand Sales – best August ever MINI USA reported the best August ever with sales of 6,023 automobiles, an increase of 5.3 percent from the 5,718 sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, MINI sales in the U.S. are up 1.6 percent on volume of 44,329 compared to 43,632 in the first eight months of 2012. MINI Pre-Owned Vehicles – best month ever In August, MINI used automobiles (including MINI NEXT certified pre-owned and pre-owned) reported the best month ever with sales of 2,182 automobiles, an increase of 23 percent from the 1,774 sold in August, 2012. January through August, MINI used vehicle sales are up 20.5 percent on volume of 14,480 compared to 12,015 in the same period of 2012.

Kia Motors America Posts Record August Sales Cadenza Premium Sedan Tops 1,500 Units for Second Consecutive Month; Optima, Sorento and Soul Lead Sales IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today reported best-ever August sales of 52,025 units, a 4-percent increase over the same period in 2012. Sales of the all-new 2014 Cadenza continue to climb, exceeding the 1,500 unit mark for the second month in a row, while the U.S.-built* Optima logged its 21st straight month as Kia's top seller with 15,199 units sold. August also marked the debut of the "Totally Transformed" marketing campaign for the all-new 2014 Soul, which will soon be arriving in showrooms. "Our award-winning products deliver on Kia's promise to combine world-class design with cutting-edge technologies and premium amenities, and with the all-new Soul scheduled to arrive in showrooms soon, our sales momentum is poised to continue through the end of the year," said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia. "Exemplified by the redesigned Sorento and all-new Cadenza and Forte sedans, Kia's product offerings are more refined than ever, bringing a new level of sophistication to buyers seeking more features and options at affordable prices."

CYPRESS, Calif., Sept. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) today reported August sales of 5,281, an increase of 24.3 percent compared to August 2012. The U.S.-built Outlander Sport crossover led the way with sales of 2,171, an increase of more than 59 percent. August marks twelve consecutive months of sales increases for the fuel-efficient CUV. Outlander Sport sales are up more than 53 percent year to date. Sales of the all-new 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander, showed a year-over-year increase of more than 100 percent for the second consecutive month. Overall Outlander sales are up 43 percent year-to-date. In October, Mitsubishi Motors will celebrate the full sales launch of the all-new 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage 5-door sub-compact – the most fuel-efficient gasoline-powered, non-hybrid vehicle in America. Mitsubishi August sales highlights: Outlander Sport sales were up 59.5 percent in August and are up 53.5 percent for the year. Outlander sales were up 103.0 percent in August and are up 43.0 percent year-to-date. Lancer sedan sales were up 9.8 percent in August and are up 29.5 percent year-to-date. Lancer Evolution sales were up 13.2 percent in August and are up 5.0 percent for the year.

Nissan August U.S. Sales Rise 22.3% Nissan division sets sixth consecutive monthly record; best-ever retail sales month Infiniti sets new QX60 record; begins deliveries of all-new 2014 Q50 sports sedan NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nissan U.S. sales totaled 120,498 to set an August record, an increase of 22.3 percent over last year's total of 98,515. Nissan Division sales, spurred by gains of its top-selling, core models rose 24.3 percent in August to 108,614 units, also an August record. Sales of Infiniti vehicles finished August at 11,884 units, up 6.5 percent. Nissan Highlights Nissan division posted record August sales of 108,614 units, up 24.3 percent from 87,360 the prior year. For the first time, Nissan exceeded 100,000 retail sales in a month. Nissan LEAF had its best-ever month, with 2,420 August deliveries. Sales in new wave markets continue to grow, with Atlanta taking the crown as the No. 1 LEAF market in August. Since introducing the 2013 LEAF in March, deliveries are up 317 percent over the same period in the prior year. Altima sales jumped 19.6 percent in August to 30,976, an August record. Altima sales are up 8.9 percent year-to-date and gained over a point of segment share in the first seven months of the year. Sentra sales rose 18.7 percent to 12,605, in spite of low inventory levels. Sentra sales for 2013 are up 18.3 percent. Versa deliveries increased 8.8 percent over the prior year to 9,991, in part due to the ongoing launch of the all-new 2014 Versa Note. In 2013, Versa continues to be the leader among subcompacts, topping the segment 21 of the last 24 months (through July). Sales of Rogue crossovers set an August record at 17,273, an increase of 36.8 percent over the prior year. On Sept. 10, Nissan will unveil the all-new 2014 Rogue, which will be produced in Smyrna, Tenn., beginning later in 2013. Sales of the current-generation Rogue are up 16 percent in 2013. Pathfinder sales continue to roll, up 258.4 percent to an August record of 8,859. Fred Diaz, divisional vice president, Sales and Marketing and Service and Parts, Nissan U.S.A. said: "Top models like Altima, Sentra, Rogue and Pathfinder continue to gain share in their segments, driving Nissan to a sixth consecutive record month for the division and our best retail month ever in the history of Nissan in the U.S. The recent introduction of the all-new Versa Note and the all-new Rogue launching this fall will only help Nissan sales to continue the winning streak." "If you haven't been in a Nissan showroom in the last 12 months, you may not recognize much of it—as we continue to bring out new vehicles, the average model age is down 40 percent from a year ago," Diaz said. Infiniti Highlights Infiniti today reported sales of 11,884 units for August, an increase of 6.5 percent from 11,155 units a year earlier. August saw the first sales of the all-new Infiniti Q50 luxury sports sedan, with 2,434 units sold. The Infiniti QX60 7-passenger luxury crossover had 3,026 deliveries, up 27.2 percent, making August its best month ever; year-to-date, sales of the QX60 have totaled 20,556 units, up 69.9 percent. In August, the Infiniti QX80 full-size luxury sport utility vehicle was up 19.4 percent to 1,225 units. Infiniti's crossover and sport utility vehicles were up 15.5 percent in August, and are up 19.4 percent for the year.

Subaru Reports 45 Percent Increase In Sales And Best Ever Month In Company History August sales of 41,061 marks best-ever sales month for Subaru Subaru also reported best-ever month for Forester and best-ever August for Impreza, and BRZ models CHERRY HILL, N.J., Sept. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. today reported the best sales month in company history: 41,061 vehicle sales for the month of August, a 45 percent increase over August 2012. Year-to-date sales for Subaru total 281,652 – 29.3 percent higher than the same period in 2012. The company is on track to achieve its fifth-consecutive year of sales increases. With 13,163 vehicles sold, August was the best-ever sales month for the Forester model. Sales for Impreza and BRZ reached 6,784 and 868 respectively, representing record-high August sales for both vehicle lines. "These sales milestones are the result of hard work, dedication and unwavering commitment to serving our customers and working cooperatively with our retail organization," said Thomas J. Doll, president and chief operating officer, Subaru of America, Inc. "August was our best-ever with demand strong across all models. Significant to our success this year is more than half our sales are to people new to Subaru," said Bill Cyphers, senior vice president of sales, Subaru of America, Inc. "More and more people are recognizing our core brand attributes of longevity, safety, versatility and adventure."

Sep 4, 2013 , HERNDON, Va. Audi finishes August with second highest monthly U.S. sales in its history Audi tops 100,000 vehicles sold year to date; demand for Audi premium cars and SUVs tops 14,005 for month, a 21.5% gain Audi R8, Q5, Q7, A6 sales jump; premium segment vehicles rose 22.0%; Q5 sales increased to 91.6% to set a record in August Audi Certified pre-owned sales set all-time monthly record Audi reported August 2013 sales of 14,005 vehicles, a 21.5% increase over the previous August record set last year. August also stands as the brand’s 32nd consecutive month of record sales. Audi sales YTD increased 14.7% to 101,346 vehicles sold. “Audi needed just eight months to top 100,000 U.S. sales, a level that required a full year as recently as 2010,” said Mark Del Rosso, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Audi of America. “Previously, Audi had never approached that sales milestone in its 40-year history, proof positive of the sales momentum our brand has rapidly built in this competitive luxury market.” Sales for August 2013 were only exceeded by the record 14,841 vehicles sold in December 2012. Audi TDI® clean diesel vehicle sales approached the highest levels ever, proving that America’s appetite for the alternative fuel is growing. Sales of the all-new A6 TDI, A7 TDI and Q5 TDI, along with the previously introduced A8 TDI and Q7 TDI models achieved a volume of 1,180 vehicles in August. Demand for the Q7 TDI represented 25.6% of overall Q7 sales in August. August results were bolstered by sales of Audi luxury SUVs, with the Audi Q5 luxury crossover posting a 91.6% gain in August with an all-time record 3,845 units delivered for the month. Sales of the Audi Q7 increased 55.4% to 1,478 vehicles sold for the month. Year-to-date sales for the Audi Q5 increased 43.6% while sales for the Audi Q7 increased 49.2%. Sales of the Audi R8 soared to 65.2% for the month, as customers responded to the updated 2014 models. Audi sedan sales remained strong with the Audi A6 leading by an increase of 34.5% over the same period last year to 2,110 vehicles sold for the month. Sales of Audi premium category vehicles (Audi A8, Audi A7, Audi A6, and Audi Q7) increased 22.0% YTD, representing 32.6% of total Audi sales year-to-date and 46.0% of the Audi year-to-date sales gain. Audi Certified pre-owned vehicles surpassed the all-time monthly sales record with 3,651 vehicles sold. The previous record was established in June 2011 with 3,636 vehicles sold. August 2013 now stands as the top monthly CPO sales result in AoA history. Highlights: • Sales mix for Audi S performance variants finished the month at 16.4% for the S4 sedan; 31.9% for the S5/ RS 5; 7.8% for the S6; 15.7 % for the S7; 15.8% for the S8; 27.3% for the TTS / TT RS and TTS Roadster and 7.6% for the SQ5 crossover. • Sales of Audi A6 increased 34.5% compared to August 2012; YTD sales grew 19.1% compared to previous period. • Sales of Audi A8 increased 14.7% compared to August 2012; YTD sales grew 19.6% compared to previous period. • Sales of the Audi Q5 increased 91.6% compared to August 2012; YTD sales grew 43.6% compared to previous period. • Sales of the Audi Q7 increased 55.4% compared to August 2012; YTD sales grew 49.2% compared to previous period. • Audi sold 456 allroad models in August 2013, bringing YTD sales to 3,665 of the sport wagon, a 161.0% increase compared to previous period. • Audi R8 sales up 65.2% compared to August 2012. • Sales mix for Audi A8 TDI finished the month at 17.4%; sales mix for the Audi Q7 TDI finish the month at 25.6%. • The Audi A3 is being phased out in advance of the all-new A3 sedan arriving in the U.S. market next spring. • Audi Certified pre-owned sales increased 8.5% to 3,651 vehicles in August; YTD increased 5.0% to 26,088 vehicles sold.

PORSCHE REPORTS BEST AUGUST SALES EVER Porsche dealers sell 3,327 vehicles in August Atlanta. Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), importer and distributor of Porsche sports cars, Cayenne SUVs and the Panamera four-door sports sedan line-up in the United States, today announced August 2013 sales of 3,327 vehicles, an increase of 10 percent over the same month last year and a record August in the history of PCNA. For the year, Porsche has sold 28,456 cars in the U.S., a 28 percent increase over last year’s sales (22,279). Setting the pace was the Cayenne model line, which sold 1,435 units, up six percent over last August and a 40 percent increase year-to-date. Combined Boxster and Cayman sales were 669, compared to 394 in August 2012 (plus 70 percent). For the year, the mid-engine sports cars are up more than 200 percent. The 911 line, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, remained strong with sales of 769 units, an increase of 22 percent over the same period last year (plus 12 percent YTD). “Announcing a historic sales month is always a great way to start a new position,” commented Joe Lawrence, Executive Vice President and COO, Porsche Cars North America, Inc. The former President and CEO of Porsche Cars Canada, Ltd., Lawrence joined the U.S. sales organization of Porsche on September 1. “With the new Panamera line in our dealerships this month, we are confident that we will maintain this strong pace going into the fall season,” he added. “We are particularly excited about the arrival of the Panamera S E-Hybrid in November, the very first plug-in hybrid in the luxury segment, which will provide further momentum to our second-generation Gran Turismo.”

GM’s Retail Sales Increased 22 percent in August Record month for Cadillac XTS, Buick Encore and Verano, Chevrolet Volt, Spark, Sonic and Equinox 2013-09-04 DETROIT – General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) dealers delivered 275,847 vehicles in the United States in August, up 15 percent compared with a year ago. Retail sales increased 22 percent while fleet sales were down 8 percent. Total and retail deliveries increased by double-digits at all GM brands. In total, Cadillac was up 38 percent, Buick was up 37 percent, GMC was up 14 percent and Chevrolet was up 10 percent. Deliveries to retail customers were up 38 percent at Cadillac, 22 percent at Chevrolet, 16 percent at GMC and 24 percent at Buick. Buick’s retail sales were up for the 16 th month in row, and it was the brand’s best August since 2003. Cadillac’s retail sales were the brand’s best August since 1989. “The second half of 2013 is off to a very solid start for GM and our model-year change over and new product launches are going smoothly,” said Kurt McNeil, vice president, U.S. sales operations. “We have a lot of momentum and we feel good about the direction of the U.S. economy as we prepare to launch even more new products, including all-new heavy duty pickups and large SUVs for Chevrolet and GMC, a completely redesigned Cadillac CTS and the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray.” GM’s sales last month were the highest of 2013 and the best since September 2008, when the global financial crisis began to accelerate. Two years later, on Sept. 8, 2010, Chevrolet launched the Cruze in North America, marking the beginning of an aggressive rollout of new products that will see nearly 30 Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC nameplates either all new or redesigned by early 2014. Since then, the 2011 Chevrolet Volt and the 2013 Cadillac ATS won the North American Car of the Year award, the 2014 Chevrolet Impala was named the top sedan in the country by a leading consumer publication, GM topped the 2013 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study and the company has returned to competitive levels of leasing. GM and its dealers have also embarked on a multibillion-dollar program to renovate sales and service facilities in all 50 states. “If our first Cruze customer were to walk into a Chevrolet dealership today, he wouldn’t recognize the place,” McNeil said. “The same holds true for Buick-GMC and Cadillac. The cars and trucks, the sales and service experience – everything is being elevated so we can offer customers the best ownership experience in the business.” August Sales Highlights (vs. 2012) Crossover sales were up 34 percent. The GMC Terrain and Cadillac SRX had their best-ever August sales and the Chevrolet Equinox and Buick Encore had their best months ever. Full-size pickup sales were up 15 percent. Large SUV sales were up 29 percent. Passenger car deliveries were up 8 percent. Retail deliveries were up 27 percent, driven by a 93 percent increase for the Chevrolet Malibu and a 76 percent increase for the Chevrolet Impala. The Impala has increased its retail share of the large car segment by about 3 percentage points, according to J.D. Power PIN data. The Chevrolet Volt had its best month ever, as did the Chevrolet Spark, Chevrolet Sonic, Cadillac XTS and Buick Verano.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 4, 2013 Subaru of America, Inc. - Up 45.1% Jaguar Land Rover North America - Up 40% BMW Group U.S. - Up 35.4% American Honda Motor Co. - Up 26.7% Mazda North American Operations - Up 26.4% Mitsubishi Motors North America - Up 24.3% Toyota Motor Sales - Up 22.8% Nissan North America - Up 22.3% Audi of America - Up 21.5% Mercedes-Benz USA - Up 15.8% General Motors Co. - Up 14.7% Ford Motor Company - Up 12.8% Chrysler Group LLC - Up 12% Porsche Cars North America, Inc. - Up 10% Hyundai Motor America - Up 8% Kia Motors America - Up 4% Volkswagen of America - Down 1.3% Volvo Cars of North America, LLC - Brands: Jaguar - Up 67% BMW - Up 45.7% Subaru - Up 45.1% Cadillac - Up 37.8% Buick - Up 36.9% Land Rover - Up 32% Smart - Up 31.9% Honda - Up 29.1% Ram - Up 29% Mazda - Up 26.4% Nissan - Up 24.3% Mitsubishi - Up 24.3% Lexus - Up 22.9% Toyota - Up 22.8% Audi - Up 21.5% Mercedes-Benz - Up 20.5% GMC - Up 14.2% Ford - Up 13.5% Dodge - Up 12% Chevrolet - Up 10.4% Porsche - Up 10% Acura - Up 9% Jeep - Up 8% Hyundai - Up 8% Infiniti - Up 6.5% MINI - Up 5.3% Kia - Up 4% Chrysler - Up 2% Fiat - Up 1% Volkswagen - Down 1.3% Lincoln - Down 6.4% Sprinter - Down 34.7% Volvo - William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA REPORTS AUGUST 2013 SALES Best-ever August and year-to-date results for Passat and TDI® Clean Diesels Best August and year-to-date for Passat with 10,194 and 76,364 units, respectively Jetta Sedan delivered 13,508 units for the month Tiguan delivered 2,948 units, marking the best August and year-to-date ever High-mileage, TDI® Clean Diesel models accounted for 30.4 percent of sales in August and 24.3 percent of sales year-to-date, the best August and year-to-date results on record Passat TDI sales reach 43.8 percent of mix with 4,470 units representing the best August and year-to-date results ever Volkswagen’s August sales total 40,342 units, representing a 1.6 percent decrease versus the prior year Herndon, VA - Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 40,342 units delivered in August, representing the third month the brand has surpassed 40,000 units over the past 40 years. “We had a stellar month with our TDI clean diesels, demonstrating that more consumers are appreciating real world benefits of these advanced engines,” said Jonathan Browning, president and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. “Overall, we are pleased to see that demand for the brand remains strong and selling over 40,000 vehicles for the month is an accomplishment our employees and dealers can be proud of. As we transition to 2014 Model Year vehicles, we are encouraged that the lineup brings a host of new features and added customer value with the launch of the new 1.8 and 2.0 TSI engines, Car-Net connectivity system and the expansion of our sporty R-line models.” The Chattanooga-built Passat continued to show strong results with 10,194 units delivered, an increase of 3 percent. In August the Passat TDI, the only clean diesel in the midsize sedan segment delivered 4,470 clean diesels, representing 43.8 percent of its sales mix. Total Jetta deliveries (including SportWagen) for August accounted for 16,280 units, up 5.4 percent for the year. The Jetta Turbo Hybrid continues to attract consumer interest with 712 deliveries in August. Total Beetle deliveries for August were 4,921 units, a 42.6 percent increase versus the prior year. In August, the Beetle was named a 2013 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, joining eight other Volkswagens that previously received the coveted award. In addition, last month Volkswagen celebrated the production of10 million cars at its Volkswagen de México manufacturing facility in Puebla, Mexico. The 10- millionth car was a Volkswagen Beetle GSR®, a limited edition, 1970s-inspired Beetle that goes on sale this month. The 2014 Beetle GSR is a retro-themed yellow and black model inspired by the “Yellow Black Racer” of the 1970s. The GSR features the new EA888 turbocharged and direct-injection 2.0-liter TSI® engine, giving it more power, torque and better fuel economy. Only 3,500 of the special edition Beetle GSRs were built globally. The Tiguan had the best August ever with 2,948 units sold; this also marks the best year-to-date with 20,744 units. Total sales of the Golf (including Golf R and GTI) were 3,010 units. The Touareg sold 705 units. Volkswagen’s high-mileage, TDI® Clean Diesel models accounted for 30.4 percent of sales in August marking the best month ever for TDI sales and 24.3 percent year-to-date.

Chrysler Group LLC Reports August 2013 U.S. Sales Increased 12 Percent; Best August Sales in Six Years Best August sales since 2007 41st-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck, and FIAT brands each post sales increases in August compared with same month a year ago FIAT brand records its best sales month since launching the Fiat 500 in the U.S. in 2011 Six Chrysler Group vehicles set sales records in August Ram Truck brand sales up 29 percent; largest percentage sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand in August All Jeep brand vehicles in production record double-digit percentage increases Ram Truck brand named “Most Ideal Popular Brand” in AutoPacific’s 2013 Ideal Vehicle Awards; Jeep Grand Cherokee and Chrysler Town & Country named “Most Ideal Mid-Size SUV” and “Most Ideal Minivan” in their respective classes September 4, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group LLC today reported U.S. sales of 165,552 units, a 12 percent increase compared with sales in August 2012 (148,472 units), and the group’s best August sales since 2007. The Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck and FIAT brands each posted year-over-year sales gains in August compared with the same month a year ago. The Ram Truck brand’s 29 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand during the month. Chrysler Group extended its streak of year-over-year sales gains to 41-consecutive months in August. “Last month we achieved our strongest retail sales in the past 60 months,” said Reid Bigland, Head of U.S. Sales. “All aspects of our business continue to improve as evidenced by our streak of 41-consecutive months of year-over-year sales gains.” Chrysler Group had six models that set sales records in August. The Dodge Journey mid-size crossover, with its 12 percent increase, had its best sales month ever. In addition, the Dodge Challenger, Dodge Dart, Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Compass, and Jeep Patriot each recorded their best sales for the month of August. Chrysler Group finished the month with a 62-days supply of inventory (364,641 units). U.S. industry sales figures for August are projected at an estimated 16.1 million units Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR). August 2013 U.S. Sales Highlights by Brand Ram Truck Brand Ram Truck brand sales were up 29 percent, the brand’s best August sales since 2007. August was the sixth-consecutive month in which the Ram Truck brand registered the largest percentage year-over-year sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand. Sales of the Ram pickup truck were up 31 percent, its 40th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains and its best August sales since 2006. Sales of the Light Duty Ram pickup were up 34 percent in August, driven by a sharp increase in Crew Cab pickups, while Heavy Duty Ram sales increased 26 percent. The Ram Truck brand was named the “Most Ideal Popular Brand” in AutoPacific’s 2013 Ideal Vehicle Awards in August. The Ideal Vehicle Awards are based on responses to AutoPacific’s New Vehicle Satisfaction Survey. AutoPacific asked owners to indicate a desire to change their vehicle in 15 different categories, ranging from power and acceleration to safety features and storage, after having owned and driven their vehicle for 90 days. Dodge Brand Dodge brand sales were up 12 percent in August, the brand’s best August sales since 2003 and its 27th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. The Dodge Challenger and Dodge Dart compact sedan each recorded their best August sales, while the Dodge Journey midsize crossover, with its 12 percent increase, had its best sales month ever. The Dart recorded its third straight month of year-over-year sales gains. The Dart added to its list of awards in August with a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Dodge Charger sales were up 37 percent in August, while sales of the Dodge Durango full-size SUV increased 117 percent. Durango registered its best August sales in eight years. Jeep® Brand Jeep brand sales were up 8 percent in August, the brand’s best August sales in 11 years. All Jeep brand models in production recorded sales gains in August compared with the same month a year ago. The Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Compass, and Jeep Patriot each recorded their best sales ever for the month of August. Sales of the Patriot were up 42 percent, the largest percentage increase of any Jeep brand model for the month. Sales of the Jeep Grand Cherokee were up 40 percent, its best August sales since 2003. It also was the Grand Cherokee’s best sales month so far this year. The Grand Cherokee was named “Most Ideal Mid-Size SUV” in August for the third-consecutive year in AutoPacific’s 2013 Ideal Vehicle Awards. Chrysler Brand Chrysler brand sales were up 2 percent in August led by the Chrysler 300 full-size sedan’s 27 percent year-over-year sales gain. It was the 300’s best August sales since 2007 and best sales month so far this year. Sales of the Chrysler Town & Country minivan were up 11 percent, its best August sales since 2002, as well as the vehicle’s best sales month so far this year. The award-winning Town & Country in August captured an additional honor being named the “Most Ideal Minivan” in AutoPacific’s 2013 Ideal Vehicle Awards based on owners’ ratings of their 2013 vehicles. FIAT Brand The FIAT brand recorded its best sales month since launching the Fiat 500 in 2011 and its 18th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. FIAT brand sales were up 1 percent in August compared with the same month a year ago. Sales of the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L, the newest addition to the FIAT brand product lineup, increased 26 percent in August compared with sales in the previous month of July. FIAT studios across the U.S. began selling the 500L in June. The 2014 Fiat 500L was named in August by Kelley Blue Book to its list of the “10 Best Back-to-School Cars.” Kelley Blue Book’s editors praised the 500L’s iconic styling and Euro charm, as well as its fuel economy, safety, versatility, and value. The FIAT brand also unveiled in August the Fiat 500 Cattiva, which provides the 500 Sport and 500 Turbo models with a factory-tuned look, and the Fiat 500c GQ Edition, continuing the brand’s tradition of premium, limited-production lifestyle cars for discerning customers.

FORD MOTOR COMPANY AUGUST RETAIL SALES SURGE TO HIGHEST LEVELS SINCE 2006 Ford Motor Company August U.S. retail sales increase 20 percent – best retail sales month since August 2006; total sales up 12 percent Fusion sales achieve August sales record; strongest gains coming from the western region of the country Led by Fiesta and C-MAX hybrids, Ford small car sales jump 30 percent, driving coastal and millennial retail share gains F-Series sales top 70,000 vehicles for the second time this year All-new Lincoln MKZ posts best-ever August sales Ford announces 2013 fourth-quarter production of 785,000 vehicles, up 7 percent from 2012 DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 4, 2013 – Ford Motor Company’s August U.S. retail sales grew 20 percent – with total sales up 12 percent – for the best monthly retail performance since 2006. With inventories remaining tight in several key segments, retail sales gains were broad-based. Car sales were up 15 percent, utilities up 16 percent and trucks up 30 percent. Ford continued to see strong growth in the coastal regions. “Producing more Fusions at Flat Rock Assembly with its 1,400 new workers is a welcome opportunity, as Fusion showed great strength in August,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. marketing, sales and service. “Small cars and hybrids continue to outpace the market in the coastal regions of the U.S., with Ford brand retail small car sales growing at more than three times the rate of the U.S. small car industry.” Fusion had its best-ever August sales with 24,653 vehicles sold. Strongest growth for Fusion continues to be in the western region of the country, with retail sales up 63 percent. Ford’s overall small car sales – including Fiesta, Focus and C-MAX hybrids – were up 30 percent, with combined sales of 30,148 vehicles. C-MAX hybrids contributed 44 percent of Ford’s small car growth in August. Fiesta sales increased 61 percent, for the best August Fiesta sales ever. F-Series sales of 71,115 vehicles were up 22 percent, for the 25th consecutive monthly increase – and the second time this year sales have topped 70,000 vehicles. The last time F-Series had sales of more than 70,000 vehicles in two separate months in a calendar year was 2006. Lincoln MKZ sales were up 10 percent to 3,652 vehicles, for a best-ever August sales month. MKZ has now reported record sales for four of the last five months. Ford also announced it will build 785,000 vehicles in the fourth quarter of 2013, a 7 percent increase (50,000 vehicles) from the fourth-quarter of 2012. Third-quarter production of 740,000 vehicles is unchanged from previous guidance.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 4, 2013 Another day, another automaker revealing their showing at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The automaker in question happens to be Audi with the Sport quattro concept. The Sport quattro concept draws a lot of inspiration from the original Audi Sport quattro with large flat surfaces, blisters over the wheel fenders, bright yellow paint, and of course the iconic shape of the quattro coupe. Other items to take note are Audi's Matrix LED headlight technology in the front headlights and twenty-one inch center-lock alloy wheels. Power comes from a plu-in hybrid powertrain that features a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine, electric motor housed the gearbox casing, and a 14.1 kWh lithium-ion battery. Total output stands at 700 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission routes power to all four wheels. The Sport quattro concept tips the scales at 4,079, which isn't that bad for a plug-in hybrid. Performance figures stand at 3.7 seconds for the run to 62 MPH and a top speed of 190 MPH. Source: Audi William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 Audi Sport quattro concept quattro is Audi and Audi is quattro – the brand and the technology are indelibly linked. In celebration of the 30th birthday of the Sport quattro, Audi will present its legitimate successor at the 2013 IAA in Frankfurt am Main. The Audi Sport quattro concept show car continues the grand quattro tradition, with a stunning coupe design and plug-in hybrid drive with a system output of 515 kW (700 hp). quattro is more than just a technology – quattro is a philosophy. The term stands for driving safety and sportiness, technical competence and a dynamic approach to life. Since the debut of the "Ur-quattro" in 1980, Audi has sold more than five million cars with permanent all-wheel drive, far more than any other premium manufacturer worldwide. The strengths of the quattro concept and its successes in racing have been impressively displayed for over three decades now. One legendary Audi classic is the Sport quattro, which made its debut at the 1983 IAA and was designed as a homologation model for the World Rally Championship. With 225 kW (306 hp) and many technical innovations, it was the supercar of its day. The short wheelbase, which honed the handling, gave the Sport quattro an unmistakable look. The competition car wrote racing history. Walter Röhrl drove it to a convincing victory in the 1987 Pike's Peak International Hill Climb in Colorado, U.S.A. Exterior design: powerful and eye-catching With the Audi Sport quattro concept show car, Audi is bringing this grand tradition into the present and taking up ideas again that were first seen in the Audi quattro concept study three years ago. The coupe combines the DNA of the Ur-quattro with dramatic elegance. It has a powerful, intense road stance, its body tautly perched over the 21-inch wheels. The overhangs are short, the proportions sportily balanced. With a wheelbase of 2,784 millimeters (109.61 in), it is 4,602 millimeters (181.18 in) long. With 1,964 millimeters (77.32 in), the two-seater is very wide and at just 1,386 millimeters (54.57 in) unusually low-slung. Like the Audi Sport quattro, the Audi Sport quattro concept was designed in the spirit of racing. None of its design solutions are an end unto themselves. Each is driven by a technical function, and several are an homage to the quattro models of the early 1980s. These include the angular, flat C-pillars and the rectangular double headlights featuring Audi's groundbreaking Matrix LED technology, which will be available by the end of this year in the refreshed Audi A8. Two very flat structures are visible inside the headlight. The wrap-around daytime running lights together with the central low-beam units and the Audi Matrix LED make for a sporty, determined look. The headlights and tail lights are a reinterpretation of lightweight construction. The headlights forsake fascia, exposing the LED heat sinks, while the tail lights reduce glass and housing to a minimum. The LED high-beam unit of the Audi Matrix LED headlights is comprised of numerous individual diodes. The individual LEDs, which work in tandem with upstream lenses and reflectors, always deliver excellent illumination. They are activated, deactivated or dimmed individually according to the situation. With the number of LEDs, their arrangement and the size and design of the headlights, the new technology offers many fascinating possibilities. Another design homage are the "blisters" above the fenders. The Audi designers have reinterpreted and strongly accentuated these lines. They give the body even greater emotional appeal and broad shoulders. Throughout the car, sharp contours frame tautly muscular surfaces. With their interplay between convex and concave curvatures, the engine hood, fenders and flanks define the athletic character of the Audi Sport quattro concept. New details: the single-frame grille The front of the show car is characterized by the hexagonal single-frame grille with a new, sculpted grille insert, a typical element borrowed from racing. Its lower section is virtually vertical; the upper section follows the line of the engine hood. The low grille emphasizes the width of the car. Two large, vertical blades divide each of the large air inlets, and their form is taken up by the creases in the engine hood. The CFRP splitter is shifted far to the front, as on a race car. The grille is part of Audi's new design philosophy and provides a first glimpse at the future design of the sporty production models. The proportions of the rear of the car are defined by the combination of a flat greenhouse and broad shoulders. The spoiler at the lower edge of the rear window underscores the car's width. Another distinctive element at the rear of the show car is the CFRP diffuser, which extends far upward. Similar to the single-frame grille, its upper section is honeycombed, whereas the lower section houses two large, oval tailpipes. Mounted on a black CFRP facing, the tail lights are rectangular – a typical quattro styling cue – and emphasize the width of the car. A spoiler extends from the rear hatch at higher speeds. The luggage compartment, which is reinforced by a solid crossbeam beneath the rear shelf, has a capacity of 300 liters (10.59 cubic ft). Precisely penned details round out the dynamic look of the Audi Sport quattro concept. The flared sills are made of CFRP; the power door handles extend automatically to meet an approaching hand. The four rings adorn the front, the rear, the air outlets behind the front wheels and the C-pillars. The center-locking wheels feature a five twin-spoke design. Interior: racing meets elegance The concept of elegant sportiness carries over to the interior of the Audi Sport quattro concept. The spacious cabin is awash in dark gray tones and precise lines. The interior is focused on the driver. The steering wheel, digital instrument cluster and head-up display are all in the direct field of view. A line running below the windshield encircles both the driver and passenger and integrates all ergonomic functions such as the door openers. The lightweight construction typical for Audi is reflected both in the design and in the choice of materials. Viewed from above, the slim dashboard is reminiscent of the wing of a sailplane. The support structure of the interior is a carbon shell that also serves as a storage compartment in the side doors. Elements like this make lightweight construction visible. The quattro drivetrain runs beneath the continuous center console. Sporty racing bucket seats with folding backs, sculpted side bolsters and integrated head restraints up front and full rear seats offer space for four. The folding mechanism provides access to the rear. A crossbeam behind the rear seats provides for additional rigidity. Great attention to detail is reflected in both the choice of materials and the workmanship. The multifunction sport steering wheel provides a glimpse into future sporty production models. The control concept is also focused on the driver. All important information is displayed in the fully digital instrument cluster, another show car feature. The multifunction sport steering wheel is used to switch between a number of virtual 3D displays. Choices include a Race mode with central speedometer, track information and a stopwatch, for example, or the Setup mode with detailed information about numerous race tracks. In addition, the touchwheel of the characteristic Audi MMI control unit makes it easy to enter information. Another highlight is the innovative air conditioning control unit, which is integrated directly into the air vents. Temperature, intensity and air flow can be controlled using one and the same element. The display in the vents shows either important media information or the air conditioning settings. Powerful performance: the plug-in hybrid drive The plug-in hybrid drive makes the Audi Sport quattro concept a breathtakingly dynamic coupe. System output is 515 kW (700 hp); system torque is 800 Nm (590.05 lb-ft). Power flows through a modified eight-speed tiptronic to the quattro powertrain, which features a sport differential on the rear axle. According to the applicable standard, the show car consumes on average 2.5 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (94.09 US mpg), a CO2 equivalent of 59 grams per kilometer (94.95 g/mile). The combustion engine is a four-liter, twin-turbo V8. It produces 412 kW (560 hp) and 700 Nm (516.29 lb-ft) of torque. The cylinder on demand (COD) system, which deactivates four cylinders under part load, and a start-stop system make the sonorous eight-cylinder unit very efficient. Located between the 4.0 TFSI and the transmission is a disc-shaped electric motor producing 110 kW and 400 Nm (295.02 lb-ft). It draws its traction energy from a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery in the rear with a capacity of 14.1 kWh. The show car is charged via an Audi wall box, which uses intelligent charge management to ensure the optimal feed of energy to the lithium-ion battery. The Audi Sport quattro concept can cover up to 50 kilometers (31.07 miles) on electric power alone. An intelligent management system controls the interplay between the two drives as needed, and the driver can choose between various operating modes. The customer can choose between various characteristics for the Audi Sport quattro concept depending on the operating and driving strategy. A choice of three modes is available. EV mode is for purely electric driving; Hybrid mode for maximum efficiency and Sport mode for maximum performance. In EV mode, only the electric motor is active. With a peak electric output of 110 kW and 400 Nm (295.02 lb-ft) of torque, electric driving both inside and outside the city is possible. An active accelerator indicates the transition to hybrid operation to the driver so that he/she can consciously control the switch between electric and hybrid vehicle. In Hybrid mode, environmental and route data are used to compute the optimal use of the electric motor and combustion engine for fuel efficiency and implement this via the operating strategy. If navigation is active, the route is optimized for efficiency. This mode also includes the ability to customize the operating strategy. If the driver wants to retain a certain amount of electric range or to drive certain route segments on electric power, they can use the Hold or Charge function to precisely adjust the charge of the battery even without charging from the power grid. In Sport mode, the operating strategy sets the drive system for maximum power and performance. The electric boost function supports the combustion engine in all driving situations. The energy management system ensures that the battery always has sufficient charge. When the V8 and the electric motor work together, the Audi Sport quattro concept accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 3.7 seconds – much like the powerful Audi rally cars once did. Its top speed is 305 km/h (189.52 mph). The lightweight construction concept also plays a large part in this dynamic performance. The occupant cell combines ultra-high-strength steel panels and cast aluminum structural elements. The doors and fenders are made of aluminum, and the roof, the engine hood and the rear hatch are made of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer. The result is a curb weight including the battery pack of just 1,850 kilograms (4,078.55 lb). The show car's chassis is easily able to handle the drive system's power. Handling is as dynamic as it is stable. The front suspension features five control arms per wheel; the rear suspension follows the Audi track-controlled trapezoidal link principle. Tautly tuned springs and dampers connect the Audi Sport quattro concept firmly to the road. The dynamic steering varies its ratio as a function of driving speed. The brake calipers grip large, carbon fiber-ceramic brake discs, and the tire format is 285/30 R 21. View full article