Audi may drive in sports car ‘R8’ by year end

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Mumbai, Apr 23: German luxury car manufacturer Audi AG is studying the possibility of launching its popular luxury sports car ‘R8’ in India by this year end, said a company spokesperson.

The 450 horse power ‘R8’ is in direct competition to Porsche 911 4S range. If launched, the car will be the second offering from the Audi stable this year after the planned new Audi A4.

Priced at Euro 1,400 in Germany, ‘R8’ has been ruling the web blogs and Indian car freaks from a long time. “Around three R8 are present in India that have been shipped directly from UK,” said the spokesperson. “We have been receiving a number of enquires for the car, which is exciting,” she added.

Currently, R8 is present in markets including Europe, US and parts of Asia like Korea. Asked if Indian roads were fit for such cars, the spokesperson said, “With Audi genes R8 is a pure sports car and perfect for drive on Indian roads.”

The new Audi A4 is scheduled to be launched mid this year. The company plans to start completely knocked down (CKD) production by end of this year.

With an overall length of 4.70 metres, the new Audi A4 is a large saloon. In comparison with the previous model, the new A4 has its proportions altered to give a new and sporty impression.

Currently, Audi assembles its A6 in India at its group company’s (Skoda) plant in Aurangabad. The new Audi A4 will also be assembled at the same plant with a separate assembly line.

Asked if the company will be looking at separate plant, the spokesperson said, “We wanted to enter the Indian market very fast and this was the easiest and most economical way out. Skoda has given us part of its plant on lease and we will invest Euro 30 million over five years there.”

The spokesperson, however, did not deny the possibilities of setting up a plant in the near future.

On localisation of the models in India, she said, “We are definitely looking at such options.”