Audi launches R8 in 3 variants in India, targets record sales of over 10,000 units in 2013

New Delhi, January 21, 2013: Luxury carmaker Audi has set its sights high in the Indian market. After posting 63 percent growth in 2012 (2011 sales: 5,511 units) with sales of 9,003 cars, 372 units behind No 1 player BMW India (2012 sales: 9,375 units), it now aims to cross 10,000-unit sales in 2013. If it does cross that figure, it will become the first luxury carmaker to achieve that landmark in the Indian market. The figure the carmaker is aiming at is 10,800 units, a 20 percent increase over its 2012 sales.

In line with its aggressive new model introduction strategy, Audi India rolled out its latest edition of its premium sportscar, the R8 equipped with a new seven-speed S-Tronic transmission. Available in three trim levels, it is priced at Rs 1.34 crore for the V8 Coupe, Rs 1.57 crore for the V10 Coupe and Rs 1.73 crore for the V10 Spyder (all prices ex-showroom Delhi).

“2013 is a critical year for Audi in India and we will see the announcement of several initiatives on the product and network front. The first month of 2013 has already seen the launch of the new Q5. I am confident that with the launch of this new R8, we will further consolidate our leadership position in the super sportscar segment in India,” said Michael Perschke, head, Audi India, at the launch (pictured above).

The R8 is the top-of-the-line product of Quattro GmbH and many of its features can also be found in the RS5, S4, TT and the soon-to-be-launched S6, said Perschke. The R8 V10 Coupe accelerates from 0-100kph in 4.3 seconds through to a top speed of 300kph. Audi engineers have reduced the weight of the top-end model by around 50kg. An aluminium Audi Space Frame weighs roughly about 210kg, about 40 percent less than a comparable steel structure. The body of the R8 Spyder with its electro-hydraulically actuated cloth top weighs 216kg.

Last year, Audi rolled out five models and variants, starting with the launch of the TT, new A4, Q3, S4 and the A8L 4.2 TDI.

“Our strong performance is a result of our diverse product portfolio, network expansion, unique marketing activities and aftersales service at par with global standards,” said Perschke.

At present, Audi has 24 showrooms in 21 cities and plans to increase its footprint in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities with new dealerships soon to be set up in Lucknow, Noida, Mumbai South and Vadodara.

SHOBHA MATHUR

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