Audi gets greener

Audi has announced plans to cut the average CO2 emissions of its cars by 20%.

The decision, to be realised by 2012 when the European Union wants makers to average emissions 120g/km across their range, has been made in response to the current climate, where low fuel consumption and emissions are seen as the future of car production.

Although no details have been given as to how the cut will be achieved, Audi has hinted that it will use existing technology, which has been showcased on the Audi A4 TDI concept e that was unveiled at the Paris motor show.

Essentially a conventional A4, the concept e is powered by a 120bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine and emits 105g/km of CO2: 1g/km more than the hybrid Toyota Prius.

Engine stop/start, brake energy recovery, weight-saving, low-friction tyres and modifications to engine components all contribute to its efficiency.

Audi describes the car as a near-production study, which means its not that far from going on sale.

The Audi A1 Sportback, a five-door supermini concept, was also shown at the Paris show. The petrol-electric hybrid combines a 150bhp 1.4-litre turbocharged engine and an electric motor.

Audi CEO Rupert Stadler recently said: 'Electric power is a given in the future.'