- Armoured security sedan fulfils the most stringent safety criteria
- Audi offers competitive advantages of quattro drive, low weight and high payload
- A8L security can be ordered now for market launch in Q2, 2016
Frankfurt, 14 September 2015 - Audi will unveil its most secure, armoured high-security sedan at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt am Main, on Tuesday 15 September 2015. The premium brand is presenting the A8 L Security edition which will satisfy the criteria of the class VR 9 ballistic protection standard, currently the most stringent requirements for civilian high-security sedans.
Audi's A8L Security armoured sedan is now even more robust thanks to the adaptation of the safety cell which will integrate extremely resistant materials – like aramide fabric, special aluminium alloys and a hot-formed steel armour that offers even more protection despite its lower weight. Audi engineers have also further developed the vehicle's glazing. These improvements mean that the total vehicle is now certified to the requirements of resistance class VR 9. It has been tested for resistance to explosive charges in accordance with the ERV 2010 guideline. Previously, the A8 L Security fulfilled resistance class VR 7.
The company manufacturers each order entirely under its own supervision in a partnership between the Neckarsulm plant and a secure, top-secret factory. Standard security features of the luxury sedan include an armoured communication box in the luggage compartment, an intercom for communication with the outside world and selective door unlocking. Upon request, Audi can deliver solutions such as its patented emergency exit system, a fire extinguishing system and an emergency fresh air system. Along with standard comfort features such as the relaxation seat at the rear, Audi can also satisfy individual requests.
The Audi A8 L Security assumes an unique position in its segment. Its quattro drive makes it the only luxury sedan with an all-wheel drive system that is offered directly from the manufacturer as an armoured high-security vehicle. Thanks to the high share of aluminium in the body, the vehicle's weight is relatively low. Nonetheless, it can handle a maximum payload of 600 kg which is the best figure in the competitive field.
Two engines are available for the high-security sedan. The 4.0 TFSI, a biturbo V8, has a power output of 320 kW and produces 600 Nm of torque. The naturally aspirated W 12 FSI offers 368 kW (500 hp) and 625 Nm of torque. Its top speed is electronically governed to 210 km/h – a limit set in consideration of the tyres that possess exceptional emergency flat-running properties. The entire chassis and the quattro permanent all-wheel drive are specifically designed to meet the high security requirements.
Orders are now being accepted for the updated Audi A8 L Security. Delivery is scheduled to begin in Q2, 2016.
The Audi Group
The Audi Group delivered approximately 1,741,100 cars of the Audi brand to customers in 2014.The company achieved revenue of €53.8 billion and an operating profit of €5.15 billion in 2014. Audi operates globally in more than 100 markets and has production facilities in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm (Germany), Gyor (Hungary), Brussels (Belgium), Bratislava (Slovakia), Martorell (Spain), Kaluga (Russia), Aurangabad (India), Changchun and Foshan (China) as well as Jakarta (Indonesia). The brand with the Four Rings will start producing cars in Curitiba (Brazil) this year and in San José Chiapa (Mexico) in 2016. Wholly owned subsidiaries of AUDI AG include quattro GmbH (Neckarsulm), Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. (Sant'Agata Bolognese, Italy) and sports motorcycle manufacturer Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A. (Bologna, Italy). The company currently employs approximately 80,000 people worldwide, thereof around 58,000 in Germany. Total investment of about €24 billion is planned from 2015 to 2019 – primarily in new products and sustainable technologies. Audi is committed to its corporate responsibility and has anchored the principle of sustainability for its products and processes in its strategy. The long-term goal is CO2-neutral mobility.