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3D Mark test Here
********INFO********
Series HP PAVILION DV7-3100
Operating System MS Windows 7 ultra
CPU Intel Core Processor i7-720QM (1.60 GHz, 6 MB L3 cache)
Memory 4096 MB (2 x 2048 MB) DDR3 SDRAM
Memory Slots 2 x SODIMM Slots
Memory Upgrade Upgradeable to 4096 MB Maximum
Hard Drive 1280 GB (640 GB x 2) 5400 RPM
Display 17.3" WXGA (1600x900 Resolution)
Display Type Brightview
HD+
LED
Widescreen Display
Optical Drive Blu-Ray ROM SuperMulti DVD+/-RW Double Layer w/ Lightscribe
Graphics NVIDIA GeForce GT 230M 1 GB dedicated memory
Network Interface Integrated Gigabit Ethernet Controller (10/100/1000)
Modem High Speed 56k Modem
Bluetooth Yes
Webcam Integrated Pavilion Webcam + microphone
Remote Control HP Mobile Remote Control (Express Card Version)
Expansion Slots 5 in 1 (MS/MS Pro /MMC/SD/xD)
ExpressCard/54 Slot
I/O Ports 4 USB 2.0 (4th shared with eSATA), HDMI, eSATA Combo, VGA, IEEE1394, RJ-11/ modem, RJ-45/ ethernet, 2 Headphone out, Microphone in, Consumer IR, Expansion Port 3, AC Adapter
Media Slots Integrated HP DVB-T/Analog TV Tuner
Keyboard Full-sized keyboard with integrated numeric keypad
Pointing Device/s Scroll Zone
Touchpad
The top six icons are improvements of earlier versions. The others (except FeedReader and Spotify) are replacement icons for the ones that come pre-installed on webOS devices like the Pre 3 and Touchpad (and are extras to the Pre/Pre 2 default icons).
It depends on what will happen to Open webOS if I'll make more icons for it.
At the moment, I think about doing some looser (non-icon) work, though icons for OS X may also come one day...all in Haiku style of course.
I've always been a fan of technology, however as I realized when doing my most recent project I am very much a traditionalist when it comes to writing. I outline and denote my own work, I scribble out, and I write over to capture all my thoughts. While using technology to type may save time, I still feel a personal connection and an endearment in a way to my pen and paper and it saddens me to think that most schools no longer teach cursive writing past knowing your signature. Oh well, enough rambling, back to my grind...
Atari 2600 "Heavy Sixer" and a Sears "Tele-Games" Branded 2600.
Aside from the standard controls there is also an Atari Video Touchpad and two Gemstick joysticks.
License:
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.
buick riviera concept.
PRESS RELEASE:
COMPELLING BUICK RIVIERA CONCEPT SHOWCASED AT NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW
DETROIT – The Buick Riviera, a stunning concept car designed to showcase Buick's new global design direction, makes its North American debut at the Buick stand during the North American International Auto Show.
Unveiled at China's Auto Shanghai 2007, the gull-wing, front-wheel-drive Riviera concept coupe was developed with global design input by the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC), a design and engineering joint venture between General Motors and Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC). PATAC is headquartered in Shanghai.
"We said last year the Riviera concept made us realize how small the world was – it's not East; it's not West. It's Buick," said Ed Welburn, vice president, GM Global Design. "The reaction to the car around the globe proved that to be very much the case."
Engineered to accommodate a new hybrid system that will go into production this year at Shanghai GM (SGM), GM's flagship joint venture with SAIC, the Riviera features several technological and manufacturing advances. They represent the latest achievements of GM and its partners in the promotion and development of alternative propulsion technologies in China.
"The Riviera concept underscores the diversity, strength and depth of the GM global design and engineering network," said Welburn. "It also reflects PATAC's growing role within the GM Design family and China's significance as the world's largest Buick market."
The Riviera marks the return of a renowned Buick nameplate after an eight-year hiatus. Between 1963 and 1999, GM sold more than 1.1 million Rivieras in the United States.
"The Riviera concept, with its tightly stretched carbon fiber body panels, combination of positive and negative curves, strong front and rear identities and gull-wing doors, captures the essence of Buick classics, while presenting a thoroughly 21st century design," said Welburn. "It certainly lives up to the nameplate's reputation for bold design. The Riviera communicates the global design vocabulary of the Buick brand and sets the stage for General Motors' design, engineering and manufacturing centers to work together on the next generation of Buick midsize luxury cars."
Riviera's enticing curves and "earth and water" interior tones are drawn from diverse inspirations including classic Buicks, ancient Chinese artifacts and modern electronic icons. To PATAC designers, the car, inside and out, communicates universal beauty – a look that transcends cultural or national boundaries.
A sense of existence
To establish their design direction, PATAC designers looked, in part, to Buick icons such as the original Y-Job concept of 1938, the 1960s LeSabre, Electra 225 and the Riviera coupes of the 1960s and '70s.
The Riviera design is structured around the Buick tri-shield logo, sitting proudly on a trihedral waterfall grille that is formed by three intersecting planes. This takes the traditional Buick treatment to a new level of sophisticated boldness.
The Buick logo leads into a reflective strip through the hood, a mark of respect to the distinctive mid-hood crease prevalent in classic Buicks. Elongated LED headlamps flow up the hood sides to three-section, top-mounted chrome portholes as a single piece of jewelry.
The logo, hood strip, headlamps, side mirrors and rocker covers all have "icy green" backlighting available at night, matched by backlit logo and exhausts at the rear. Designers incorporated several other design signatures from the original Riviera generation, including the "double-sweep spear" line along the body side and a flared tail design.
In this theme, the Shell Blue exterior color was chosen to elicit the right level of attention. The color is metallic silver with light blue accents that highlight the coupe's exterior curves. The gull-wing doors, selected for their exotic appeal, achieve an expansive entrance to the 2+2 seating configuration. Measuring 1,938 mm at their widest point, the doors add to the coupe's sleek sideline. At night, the fully opened doors gently cast the "Buick" name on the ground.
The use of carbon fiber in all body panels allowed designers greater flexibility through reduced mass and added strength. This made the gull-wing engineering demands easier to realize and sharp, tight radius curves possible across the body surface. The side mirrors are sweeping yet unobtrusive, taking a cue from Formula One racecars, and the Riviera sits on 21-inch, 10-spoke forged aluminum wheels that combine polished and satin finishes with low-profile tires.
PATAC designed the Buick Riviera to accommodate the new hybrid system, which will be introduced in China in 2008 prior to the Beijing Olympics. The new hybrid system fits naturally with the Riviera's "earth and water" design theme.
All about relaxation
The Riviera's interior can be summed up with one word: sanctuary. The use of rich blue and subtle creams, representing water and earth, is conveyed in the high-quality leather bucket seats, plush carpet and a luxurious, padded steering wheel. Completing the organic feel, the roof comprises two shaded glass windows offering increased headroom and a celestial connection for occupants.
Designers aimed to have the driver feel relaxed and tranquil inside the car. Earth and water tones were used, and hard, aggressive edges were studiously avoided.
The interior has no discernable start and finish point for the front and sides, creating a comfortable lounge feel. It is immediately futuristic yet somehow familiar. A three-dimensional speedometer, inspired by past classics but utterly modern in design, complements the touchpad styled central console loosely modeled on a computer mouse. An LCD display screen crowns the central console.
Riviera's interior designers were encouraged to consider people's personal belongings to enhance their feeling of familiarity and comfort in the vehicle. Continuing the theme of calm simplicity, electronic shifter pads replace the traditional transmission shifter and controls are kept to a minimum to deter driver distraction.
Ambient light strips are applied across the console and inserted on the door liner, stretching to the front seats. Deliberately imitating precious Chinese jade stone, the lights are tinted a subtle icy green, which also offers tribute to a favored color of historical Buicks of days gone by.
Interior trim treatments befitting the Buick prestige abound: miniature aluminum tri-shields in the front seat headrests; a wooden floor mat in the rear; and a rear central armrest which can move sideways left and right to accommodate passengers of different sizes.
Royal blue Alcantara, a plush, suede-like covering, was chosen for the door, console and roof, while sandy white leather covers the lower door, lower console and seats.
Ancient influences in modern design
The design team set out to create a modern global design. At the same time, they sought to draw from their heritage outside the automotive industry from classic shapes, concepts and artifacts. They wanted to include a subtle Chinese essence and influence if one looked deeply enough.
A strong influence was the yuanbao, a small curvaceous gold or silver ingot used in ancient China as currency and popular today as a symbol of ancient Chinese prosperity.
PATAC designers intended the design convey East and West coexisting in harmony. The design brief was global, taking a portion of Buick's DNA and creating something for the world. The North American debut of the Buick Riviera concept highlighted the achievement of that goal.
# # #
BUICK RIVIERA CONCEPT KEY DIMENSIONS
Body style:
coupe
Number and style of doors:
two; gull-wing
Seating configuration:
2 + 2
Body shell:
carbon-fiber panels
Exterior dimensions:
Wheelbase (in / mm):
113 / 2870
Length (in / mm):
185.4 / 4710
Width (in / mm):
76.3 / 1940 (excluding mirrors)
Height (in / mm):
55.7 / 1415 (doors closed)
Front overhang (in / mm):
36.1 / 918
Rear overhang (in / mm):
36.3 / 924
Front track (in / mm):
64.7 / 1645
Rear track (in / mm):
64.3 / 1635
I'm sooooo bored of just lying here in pain!
I also wish I had a wacom thiny or atleast a mouse so I could draw properly on my laptop
i really like the look of that macbook.
normally i'm not the one who's modifying a macbook becaouse i like the non-modified look but i think the stars are very stylish and allowed :).... its like a tattoo if it looks good it is allowed ;-).
PC:
CPU: Intel 4770k amzn.to/1pvfbR3
CPU Cooler: Corsair H100i amzn.to/1pvffAi
RAM: Corsair Dominator Platinum 16GB 1866Mhz w/Light Bar amzn.to/QDa69B
RAM Light Bar: amzn.to/1pvfs6y
GPU: ASUS GTX 780ti DCU2 amzn.to/1l9UPs8
Mobo: Asus Maximus Formula VI amzn.to/1pvfBH6
SSD's: 2x Samsung 840 Pro 256GB amzn.to/1gVLRtv
Case: NZXT H440 amzn.to/1kaQ3to
PSU: Corsair RM750 amzn.to/1rraqWi
PSU Sleeved Cables amzn.to/1l9V7iF
LED Strips: amzn.to/1qhgrrt
Fans
2x Corsair SP120's for H100i amzn.to/RLCuHG
1x Corsair AF140 for Exhaust amzn.to/1rraBRe
3x NZXT Static Pressure 120mm For Front Intake amzn.to/1kaQcwP
-
Peripherals:
Mouse: Logitech Performance MX amzn.to/1gVJ83s
Mousepad: Zalman Amp 1000 amzn.to/1hXFxBl
Keyboard: Logitech K810 amzn.to/QD6wMF
Touchpad: Logitech T650 amzn.to/1nL4CEN
Speakers: Harmon Kardon Soundsticks w/Bluetooth amzn.to/1mKqhQ1
Monitors: Dell U2414h amzn.to/1htKhhW
Mounts: 3x amzn.to/1htKstK
LED Lights: amzn.to/1pvemYv
-
Furniture:
Desk: amzn.to/1nt7sRw
Desk Alternative: www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/70214192/
Chair: Herman Miller Embody amzn.to/QD9Aso
-
Backgrounds:
My recent acquisition is the Chumby One, a bed-side WIFI-connected, touchscreen-equipped device that runs Linux on a ARM9-based CPU. Woot.com offered it for $50 and I couldn't resist.
So far it has been dutifully waking me up each morning, and entertaining me with fun little Flash widgets. The built-in speaker sounds much better than its diminutive size suggests. This device double duties as an internet radio tuner, fulfilling a role previously served by a Turtle Beach Audiotron internet radio I used to own and love.
I'm pleasantly surprised that Chumby supports many USB devices out of the box: shown here is a Rii Mini wireless backlit keyboard / touchpad connected to the Chumby with the Linux terminal displayed. I've tried a Nyko Net Connect USB ethernet adapter (for Nintendo Wii, based on the ASIX AX88772 IC) and Chumby picked up that connection also. I've also successfully SSH'd into the Chumby as well.
I may try plugging my USB TV tuner to see what Chumby will find.
It seem Chumby treats the "snooze" button as an "enter" keystroke.
Finalement, Rueducommerce n'est pas totalement insensible au bad buzz généré par les déçus de la vente des HP Touchpad...
Voilà un email du DG adjoint, adressé à ceux qui ont réussi à commander une unité, dans lequel il est poliment demandé de tenter de calmer un peu les mécontents.
Mais si tout le stock est bien parti, les mécontents savent déjà que certains ont pu commandé... Est-ce que voir des gens se vanter d'avoir réussi à commander ne serait pas pris comme une ultime provocation par les dizaines de milliers de déçus ?
Samsung Galaxy TabPro S 12 inch Tablet (Black), Microsoft Windows 10 Home, 2.2 GHz Intel Core m3 Processor, 4GB RAM and 128GB solid state drive
Samsung Galaxy TabPro S: Getting the best out of work and play is what the Samsung Galaxy TabPro S is all about.
Superbly designed to be thin and light, this 2-in-1 device allows you stream, browse and game on a brilliant Super AMOLED display.
But if you need to put in some work, the Galaxy TabPro S, driven by Windows 10 Home, gets down to business.
Bundled with a full-size keyboard and featuring an Intel processor, you can create, write and edit just the way you would on a Laptop. Beautiful and powerful, the Samsung Galaxy TabPro S is ready to play and quick to work.
Slim, Sleek and Stylish: Thin and light, the Samsung Galaxy TabPro S is created with the sleek lines you expect from Samsung. From home to cafe and everywhere in between, the Galaxy TabPro S won’t weigh you down.
Powerful PC performance: Delivering PC performance to a Tablet, the Samsung Galaxy TabPro S runs Windows 10 Home, the best yet from Microsoft.
It includes an Intel Core M processor with 4 GB RAM and 128 GB solid state drive so you’ll have more power to work and more space to store.
Entertainment ready: Take your entertainment to the next level and watch the world come to life on your Tablet’s brilliant screen.
From games and social media to emails and presentations, everything looks its best thanks to the rich colors and crisp details only a Samsung Super AMOLED display can bring.
Productivity anywhere: Working from anywhere is easier than ever. Bundled with a full-size, detachable keyboard and integrated touchpad, you can do just about everything you want to do on your Tablet, from polishing a presentation to writing a long email.
More power, more doing: With fast charging, get up to 10.5 hours on a single charge so you can binge-watch your favorite show or power through a presentation.
All your favorites: Access new games, books, movies/videos, applications and more from the Windows Store. You can also stream your favorite Xbox games right on your Samsung Galaxy TabPro S Tablet from any room in the house or as far as your WiFi will go.
Technical Details
Brand Name: Samsung
Series: TabPro
Item model number: SM-W700NZKAXAR
Screen Size: 12 inches
Max Screen Resolution: 2160 x 1440 pixels
Rich colors and crisp details on the vibrant 12 inch Super AMOLED display.
Processor: 2.2 GHz Intel Core m3
OS: Microsoft Windows 10 Home
RAM: 4 GB
Memory Speed: 1600 MHz
Hard Drive: 128 GB
Wireless Type: 802.11a/b/g
Color: Black
Processor Brand: Intel
Processor Count: 2
Flash Memory Size: 128 GB
Hard Drive Rotational Speed: 1 RPM
Be productive with the included full-size, detachable keyboard with integrated touchpad.
128 GB Solid State Drive
Item Weight: 1.5 pounds
Item Dimensions L x W x H: 11.43 x 0.25 x 7.83 inches
Thin and light, the 2-in-1 Galaxy TabPro S won't weigh you down.
Voltage: 7.6 volts
Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
With fast charging, get up to 10.5 hours on a single charge.
Shipping Weight: 4.5 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
Domestic Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S. and to APO/FPO addresses. For APO/FPO shipments, please check with the manufacturer regarding warranty and support issues.
International Shipping: This item can be shipped to select countries outside of the U.S.
Date First Available at Amazon.com: January 23, 2016
Compare Prices Samsung Galaxy TabPro S 12 inch Tablet (Black), Microsoft Windows 10 Home, 2.2 GHz Intel Core m3 Processor, 4GB RAM and 128GB solid state drive
Read More Customer Reviews Samsung Galaxy TabPro S 12 inch Tablet (Black), Microsoft Windows 10 Home, 2.2 GHz Intel Core m3 Processor, 4GB RAM and 128GB solid state drive
Maybe you interest more product together.
-> Galaxy TabPro S 12 screen protector, KuGi Ultra-thin 9H Hardness High Quality HD clear Premium Tempered Glass Screen Protector for Samsung Galaxy TabPro S 12 Tablet (1 pcs)
-> Samsung S Mouse for Tablets (ET-MP900DBEGUJ) for Galaxy Note Pro & Tab Pro reviews-tablet.com/p6aukd-dr-2/
A few leafs on a chestnut tree.
I'm not sure what I think about the new Flickr design. It might take a while to get used to it. It's pretty obvious they are adapting to users with mobile devices, touchpads etc.
I have lots of photos to go through, but I will do that.. later.
The multimedia installation used by the DJs at the Christmas party with the office. Pretty colorful, eh?
The disc-shaped mound on the left can actually be used to do "scratching". What they used to do with vinyl LPs in the past, can now be done by swiping on the touchpad ;-)
Looks best on Black...
ODC 2: Colors of the Season
the entrance to the new manufacturing facility which recently came online.
I encouraged them to include a jar of finely moldable clay with each of their new 3D scanners, with no explanation needed. People might think more about creation and less about copying with their "Replicator".
More generally, I think we need a new framework for 3D content creation, as it has held back so many 3D dreams, from VRML in the 90s to 3D printing today. If you want to create a 3D model of a teacup, it’s just way too difficult for most people using geometric primitives of addition and subtraction, manipulated and rotated with 2D tools separated in space (a screen and touchpad or mouse).
My first thought was that perhaps we could reconceptualize the digital process: instead of manipulating polygons, what if we had digital clay — malleable and asymmetric and organic — that snapped to polygons and various axes of symmetry after the fact? The UI would naturally support multitouch screens where we see the clay under our fingers and need not project and rotate 3D objects in our minds.
And with a 3D scanner, MakerBot could take a step in that direction by providing rudimentary post-processing of scanned clay. With 3D printing, the objects don’t have to be symmetric. Complexity comes for free in a 3D print. Objects may be a bit more artistic and organic with asymmetries. So the post-processing could include a slider for smoothing… and perhaps a way to recognize Platonic forms like a circular or elliptical curve, offering various snap-to-grid options if wanted.
This is a cheap android tablet hung from the passenger seat in our car, ready to entertain our 3yr old on long trips. Headphones too.
Total cost to install in car was about 50c. The plastic sleeve also protects the tablet from sticky fingers and drinks. We use cable ties looped around the headrest supports to hold it in place.
Battery life is about 3 hours, though we often plug it in to a charger too.
We use VLC player software which shows thumbnails of each movie so she can choose what she wants to watch. She has learned how to play/pause and also drag the playhead to the part of the movie that she wants (or back to the start).
The tablet is a HP Touchpad that cost $150 a few years ago, now running Android.
The headphones are some $30 sennheiser ones that I already had.
Some things are tricky. The volume control is on the top edge of the tablet and Lily finds that hard to use. The headphones sometimes get pulled out of the tablet. The cord for the headphones is really long (about 3m) so after a particularly bad tangle, its now cable tied in a loop and allows about 70cm of length. One side of the headphones no longer works due to chewing! I will repair and then cover with heavy heatshrink.
When she is older, I think she'll be interested in some of the android apps for kids - but not quite yet.
The Audi A8 is a four-door, full-size, luxury sedan manufactured and marketed by the German automaker Audi since 1994. Succeeding the Audi V8, and now in its third generation, the A8 has been offered with both front- or permanent all-wheel drive - and in short- and long-wheelbase variants. The first two generations employed the Volkswagen Group D platform, with the current generation deriving from the MLB platform. After the original model's 1994 release, Audi released the second generation in late 2002, and the third and current iteration in late 2009.
Notable for being the first mass-market car with an aluminium chassis, all A8 models have used this construction method co-developed with Alcoa and marketed as the Audi Space Frame.
A mechanically-upgraded, high-performance version of the A8 debuted in 1996 as the Audi S8. Produced exclusively at Audi's Neckarsulm plant, unlike the donor A8 model, the S8 has been available only in short-wheelbase form and is fitted standard with Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system.
FIRST GENERATION (D2, Typ 4D; 1994–2002)
DEVELOPMENT
In 1982, Ferdinand Piëch signed an agreement with Aluminum Company of America. The objective was to design and develop a car that would be substantially lighter than any other vehicles in its class (to compensate for the fact that standard all-wheel drive was around 100 kg heavier than competitors' rear-wheel drive). In the late 1980s, it was decided that the target vehicle would be a successor to the V8 (Typ 4C) flagship introduced in 1988. By 1991, a final design by Chris Bird and Dirk van Braeckel was chosen and frozen for series production in 1992. In September 1993, the Audi Space Frame (ASF) Concept was unveiled at the 1993 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) as a D2 Typ 4D prototype in polished aluminum. Pilot production began in December 1993 and development ended in early 1994, at a total cost of $700 million (£418.1 million).
INTRODUCTION
The Audi A8 (Typ 4D) was presented in February 1994 and debuted at the 1994 Geneva Auto Show in March, with full-scale factory production commencing in June 1994, although it was not until October 1996, for the 1997 model year that it became available in North America. Unlike its predecessor, the Audi V8 model, which was built on an existing steel platform, the A8 debuted on the then-new Volkswagen Group D2 platform, an all aluminium monocoque, marketed as the "Audi Space Frame" (ASF), which helped to reduce weight and preserve structural rigidity. The saloon/sedan was offered in both the A8 (standard wheelbase), and the A8 L extended or long-wheelbase (LWB) version. The A8 L adds 127 mm of rear legroom. Updates to the car in 1997 included the addition of six interior airbags.
In 1997, Audi introduced the first series production ESP Electronic stability control for all-wheel drive vehicles (Audi A8 and Audi A6)– the world's first production cars with both front and rear side airbags.
For 1997, the new A8 was available with either front-wheel drive (FWD), or the Torsen-based quattro permanent four-wheel drive. The FWD models are powered by a 2.8-litre V6 engine, producing 142 kilowatts (193 PS; 190 bhp), and a 3.7-litre V8 engine producing 171.5 kilowatts (233 PS; 230 bhp), while the quattro received a 4.2-litre V8 producing 220 kilowatts (299 PS; 295 bhp).
The A8 is available with standard luxury amenities, including dual-zone climate control, wood and leather interior trim, 14-way power and heated seats, and an enhanced Bose audio system.
In 1999, Audi's flagship received side curtain airbags, new colours, and restructuring of option packages. The North American "warm weather package" added a solar sunroof which allows the interior ventilation fans to run, keeping the interior cool while the car is parked with the engine turned off. Changes to all models included a larger passenger-side mirror, and a first aid kit located in the rear centre armrest.
In 1999 for the 2000 model year came a minor front-end restyle, with new, larger, clear headlights, a revised grille, and lower front valance with standard projection fog lamps. On the interior, the seats received a new, horizontal stitch pattern. Also, the 3.7-litre V8 FWD model was dropped, leaving the 2.8 V6 model and the long-wheelbase and short-wheelbase 4.2-litre quattro. These restyled cars also featured revised external door handles and an integrated radio antenna. For 2000, the North American A8 line-up was expanded to include the A8 L.
In 2001, Audi introduced its new W12 engine, a compact 6.0-litre unit developed by effectively mating two VR6 engines together at the crankshaft. The engine quickly became available in the A8, though only to European and Asian customers. From its introduction through its discontinuation in 2003, only 750 of the D2 "W12" models were produced. 2001 also marked the debut of the high-performance S8 variant in North American markets.
In 2002, the A8 L received standard xenon high-intensity discharge lamp (HID) headlights, and a heated steering wheel. A tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), an updated Symphony II stereo, and new exterior colours were also added. For 2002, all A8 variants received a trunk/boot interior release lever to facilitate escape in the event an individual became trapped within.
Factory production of this generation ceased at Number 105,092 on August 4, 2002.
COUPE (PROTOTYPE)
In 1997, IVM Automotive of Munich, Germany built a two-door Audi A8 Coupé. The car was unveiled at the 1997 Geneva Motor Show. Audi contracted IVM to build the prototype, and was considering production of the vehicle. The coupé had a re-engineered aluminium body, shorter than the production A8 saloon. Like the Mercedes-Benz CL-Class, there was no central "B" pillar, giving the car a seamless design with a gradually sloping roofline. The car included custom leather seats which could seat four. Ultimately, Audi decided not to put the A8 Coupé into production, citing lower-than-expected sales figures for the similar BMW 8 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupé. Only one A8 Coupé was ever built. The single prototype, painted in a colour called "Ming Blue pearl", remains the property of IVM Automotive, and resides in Munich. Its last public appearance was in 2002 on a series of test drives.
S8
Audi introduced the S8 4.2 quattro into the European market in 1996. The S8 followed the naming convention of other high-performance Audi "S" models such as the Audi A6-derived S6 and was similar in vein of Mercedes-Benz AMG models. In markets such as the UK, the S8 was only available with the automatic transmission. Cosmetically, Audi differentiated the S8 from the A8 with solid aluminium alloy door mirror housings, chrome-effect beltline and lower front grille trim, and polished twin exhaust pipes, along with subtle "S8" badging. 14-way power adjustable and heated sports front seats with memory function were fitted as were heated rear seats. Standard alloy wheels were 18-inch cast aluminium alloy "Avus" six-spoke style. After the 1999 facelift, 20-inch polished nine-spoke RS wheels became an option. In 2002, 18-inch nine-spoke RS wheels became a no-cost option.
At the same time of the A8's facelift in late 1999, the S8 received the same cosmetic upgrades. This update marked the release of the S8 to the North American market. Production of the D2 series S8 ended in September 2002.
The D2 series S8 featured an uprated, 250 kW (335 hp) version of the 4.2-litre V8 with four valves per cylinder. From late 1999, Audi increased this to five valves per cylinder with power increased to 265 kilowatts (355 hp) and 430 newton metres. From launch in 1996, European-market models came standard with a six-speed manual transmission. A sports-recalibrated version of the ZF 5HP24 five-speed tiptronic automatic, featuring "Dynamic Shift Programme" (DSP) was released a year later and was the only transmission available in most other markets.
A retuned, 20-millimetre (0.8 in) lowered sports suspension included a 30 percent stiffer spring rate and 40 percent more compression damping in the shock absorbers. Speed-sensitive "servotronic" power assisted steering was also standard.
The brakes featured Bosch 5.3 anti-lock braking system (ABS), with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and worked radially ventilated front discs. From 2002, an upgraded Bosch 5.7 electronic stability programme became standard fitment.
SECOND GENERATION (D3, Typ 4E; 2002–2009)
The second-generation Audi A8 (Typ 4E) built on the Volkswagen Group D3 platform was unveiled via press release in July 2002 and introduced in November 2002 in Europe and in June 2003 (as a 2004 model) in the United States. The model was longer than the previous generation, with room for four or five large adult occupants in the cabin, depending on rear seat configuration. The D3 development program began in 1996, with the design process commencing in Ingolstadt in 1997. The whole Audi design studio based in Ingolstadt first contributed sketch proposals, from which numerous different themes emerged. Six of them were developed into full size clay models and worked up in a traditional manner adjacent to full size tape drawings. At least three one quarter scale models were produced to explore other design variations.
The six full size exterior clay models were reduced to two in late 1998 and these continued to be refined in parallel for a year. At the end of 1999 the final theme selection was made, by Miklós Kovács and Imre Hasanic the main contributing designers. This lengthy development time was in part due to the body being made from aluminium, a material less able to take the small radii of sharp feature lines such as those on the (steel bodied) A4 (B6) designed in 1998.
In parallel to the exterior design development the interior design was progressed with a total of four full size models produced and the production car's horizontally themed instrument panel design dominant from early on, with Norbert Schneider, Mark Bergold and Enzo Rothfuss the main contributing designers.
Grouping major controls nearer the driver for a more driver focused identity whilst creating a more airy and spacious feel were early priorities for the interior design team was headed by Jurgen Albamonte. This was in part facilitated by the Multi Media Interface (MMI) designed by Jurgen Schröder, that pioneered on the D3 A8 after the Audi Avantissimo concept car preview, and also by class leading colour and trim from Barbara Krömeke and Melinda Jenkins.
Under the supervision of Dany Garand, during the first half of 2000 exterior and interior clay models were digitized and developed using digital design tools in a supporting, not leading, capacity. The D3 final production design was later frozen in the summer of 2000 for an August 2002 start of production.
The A8 was previewed 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show by the Audi Avantissimo concept car. This concept introduced much of the technology later available on the series production A8 D3, including: Multi Media Interface, 6-speed automatic transmission with shift paddles, V8 biturbo engine (S8), self-levelling adaptive air suspension with continuously controlled damping, electric park brake, bi-xenon headlights with static Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) curve headlights, dashboard, driver identification systems with fingerprint scanner.
As with the previous version, two body variants of the second generation A8 are offered, the A8 (standard, or short wheelbase), and the long-wheelbase (LWB) A8 L. The A8 L adds 120 mm to the rear legroom and 11 mm to the overall height of the car.
INNOVATIONS
- World premiere of Multi Media Interface (MMI) in-car user interface (similar to BMW iDrive)
- Multiplexed high speed MOST Bus optical fiber data networks (interconnecting tens of microprocessors on common databusses), integrated with MMI.
- First Audi with Bi-Xenon HID headlamps for both low and high beam
- World premiere of static Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) curve headlights (from Hella)
- First Audi with 4-wheel Adaptive Air Suspension and Continuous Damping Control (CDC)-(Skyhook suspension).
- First Audi GPS navigation system with DVD maps
- First Audi with six-speed automatic transmission (Tiptronic)
- First Audi featuring driver identification system.
In 2005, new internal combustion engines became available. For European and Asian market customers, the entry-level 3.0-litre V6 engine was replaced with a new 3.2-litre unit featuring Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI), which it shared with the Audi B7 A4 and Audi C6 A6. The top-of-the-line W12 version debuted that year. The advantage of the W12 engine layout is its compact packaging, allowing Audi to build a 12-cylinder sedan with all-wheel drive, whereas a conventional V12 could only have a rear-wheel drive configuration as it would have no space in the engine bay for a differential and other components required to power the front wheels. In fact, Audi's 6.0-litre W12 is actually slightly smaller by overall dimensions than the 4.2-litre V8.
In addition to the added power trains, Audi restyled the D3 platform A8 range slightly in 2005, giving all variants a taller, wider trapezoidal single-frame grille. The top-of-the-line W12 engined W12 version was the first model to be equipped with this grille; V8 engined models were fitted with the new grille the following year.
The D3 generation A8 introduced the 235 kW (315 hp) 4.2-litre Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) V8 engine (subsequently uprated to 240 kW (322 hp)). The engine uses two turbochargers and two intercoolers, with each turbocharger functioning exclusively for one bank of four cylinders.
The adaptive air suspension gives the vehicle clearance a range from its normal 120 mm up to 145 mm in lift mode and down to 95 mm in the Autobahn mode, which is automatically activated when a speed of more than 120 km/h is maintained for more than 30 seconds.
In September 2005 Audi became the first car maker to offer the 1,000-watt 14-channel ICEpower sound system option from Bang & Olufsen.
A8 L W12 QUATTRO SECURITY
It is an armoured vehicle with B6+ and B7 (European standard) ballistic ratings. It includes a W12 engine rated 331 kW (450 PS) and 580 N·m (428 lbf·ft), emergency exit system featuring pyrotechnic blown-out doors, fire extinguisher system with spray jets located in the engine compartment, underbody and in the wheel arches; smoke extractor in passenger compartment, run flat tires, bullet proof windows, the full protection plus package and LED flashers in the exterior mirrors. Buyers are also offered facility to dispatch two drivers on a special training course.
S8 5.2 FSI QUATTRO
The S8 high-performance sports variant, now called the "Audi S8 5.2 FSI quattro" was announced in the last quarter of 2005 and full production started in June 2006 and ended in September 2009.
The S8 includes subtle detailing to distinguish it from its related A8. The trapezoidal "single-frame" grille bears the characteristic Audi "S model" vertical strut detail which are highlighted in a chrome finish. "S8" badging is displayed front and rear, whilst "V10" badges are displayed on each front wing above the side-repeater indicators. The rear boot-lid incorporates a subtle rear spoiler, and the rear is finished with four chromed oval exhaust tailpipes. Adaptive Xenon-plus high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps include static turning lights, along with "swiveling" dynamic cornering lights. Daytime running lamps are five light-emitting diodes (LEDs) incorporated into a cloverleaf designed reflector, incorporated into the main headlamp housing.
The D3 series S8 features a 5.2-litre all-aluminium alloy four-valves per cylinder V10 petrol engine. This engine is a derivative of the Lamborghini Gallardo's original 5.0-litre Lamborghini V10, which was also developed under the Volkswagen Group ownership. On this Audi-only variant, compared to the Lamborghini engine, it features a longer stroke and wider bore - which increases the displacement of the engine, and produces more torque at lower revs, making it more suitable for the larger and heavier full-sized luxury Audi application. It produces 331 kW (444 hp) of power and 540 N·m of torque. By having its bore whittled out an additional 2 millimetres, displacement in the S8 application increases from 5.0- to 5.2-litres. The engine also features Audi's direct-injection system, called Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI).
A sports-optimised ZF 6HP26-A61 six-speed tiptronic automatic transmission with "Dynamic Shift Programme" (DSP) and "sport" mode, with steering wheel mounted paddle-shifters, is the only offering. Output is transmitted via Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system, initially using the Torsen T-2 50:50 dynamic centre differential, and from 2007 for the 2008 model year, utilising the Torsen T-3 asymmetric dynamic centre differential, with a "default" torque distribution of 40 percent to the front axle and 60 percent to the rear.
The S8's top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. Audi's factory performance claims indicate a 0 to 100 km/h time of 5.1 seconds whilst consuming 98 RON unleaded petrol. The S8 has similar performance to Audi's own top-of-the-line A8 L W12, though the W12 is more expensive, has more torque, and built on a longer wheelbase. Compared to the A8 L W12, the S8 has sportier mechanical features such as a firmer suspension, larger wheels, and ceramic brakes. The shorter wheelbase and 10-cylinder engine save weight for better handling, but at 5.4 seconds from 0–60 mph the S8 trails the W12.
The S8, like its related A8, utilises a multi-link suspension layout front and rear, with pressurised air springs. However, for the S8, the effective spring and damper rates are noticeably firmer, along with re-engineered suspension mounts.
The brake system consists of radially ventilated discs all round. The discs are clamped with gloss-black painted dual-piston calipers up front, and a single-piston sliding caliper at the rear, coupled to an electro-mechanical parking brake. A Bosch ESP 5.7 (later upgraded to ESP 8.0) electronic stability control, with ABS, brake assist, EBD complete the brake system. Optional "Audi ceramic" carbon fibre-reinforced silicon carbide (C/SiC) composite front and rear brakes are available, which use radially vented, and floating SGL Carbon discs, with anthracite grey painted twelve-piston fixed Brembo monobloc alloy calipers. Standard alloy wheels consist of 20-inch "S design" alloy wheels.
A8L CENTENNIAL LIMITED EDITION (2009–)
The A8L Centennial Limited Edition (奧迪A8L百年限量版) is a limited (800 units total) version of the A8L 3.0 FSI with multitronic and the A8L 6.0 W12 quattro for the Chinese market, commemorating Audi's 100th anniversary. It included horizontal chrome-plated front grille (from the A8L 6.0 W12 quattro), "V6" metal logo at the upper left of the air-inlet grille (A8L 3.0 FSI), LED daytime running lights, heated leather steering wheel, 19-inch 12-spoke polished aluminium alloy wheels, heated steering wheel in grey leather with beige stitching, Bang & Olufsen advanced audio system, Alcantara equipment bag, Assam ash red veneer, floor mat with aluminium trim, a metal 'Audi exclusive' commemorative logo at inn door trims.
The vehicles went on sale on the 18 October 2009 as 2010 model year vehicles.
In North America, only the 4.2 V8, 5.2 V10, and 6.0 W12 petrol engines are available. The 4.0 TDI was discontinued when the 4.2 TDI was introduced.
Third generation (D4, Typ 4H; 2010–present)
The third generation of the Audi A8 was introduced in Miami on 30 November 2009. The chassis was built on the Volkswagen D2 platform.
INITIAL RELEASE
NEW FEATURES
Changes include:
Full LED headlamps with Automatic high beam switching or Audi adaptive light (Xenon) with variable headlight range control
enhanced MMI Multi Media Interface with touchpad & handwriting recognition for the phone and navigation system, using Nvidia Tegra System on a chip for very high processing speed.
optional 1,400 watt Bang & Olufsen sound system.
driver assistance systems networked using FlexRay technology.
Hard disk drive GPS navigation with 3D computer graphics with Google Earth.,
navigation system coordinates input to the adaptive headlights, transmission, adaptive cruise control and electronic stability control.
Infrared Night Vision Assistant with pedestrian recognition
broadband internet with UMTS 3G and WLAN-Hotspot
First production Audi with a Collision avoidance system: Pre sense (similar to Mercedes-Benz Pre-Safe). The full version of the system (Pre Sense Plus) works in four phases. In the first phase, the system provides warning of an impending accident, while the hazard warning lights are activated, the side windows and sunroof are closed and the front seat belts are tensioned. In the second phase, the warning is followed by light braking, strong enough to win the driver's attention. The third phase initiates autonomous partial braking at a rate of 3 m/s². The fourth phase decelerates the car at 5 m/s² followed by automatic deceleration at full braking power, roughly half a second before projected impact. A second system, called (Pre Sense Rear), is designed to reduce the consequences of rear-end collisions. The sunroof and windows are closed and seat belts are prepared for impact. The optional memory seats are moved forward to protect the car's occupants. The system uses sensor fusion with twin radar and a mono camera and was introduced in 2010.
A8 (L) (2010–)
The third-generation Audi A8 (L) (Typ 4H) is based on the Volkswagen Group MLB platform, but retains the Audi Space Frame aluminium construction of the previous A8, making it the lightest all-wheel drive car in the full-size luxury segment, while also giving it best-in-class fuel economy. The quattro all-wheel drive system splits torque with a default bias of 40 percent front and 60 percent rear.
The vehicle was unveiled in Design Miami 2009 on 30 November 2009., followed by the 2010 North American International Auto Show.
Early models include A8 4.2 FSI quattro (372PS), A8 3.0 TDI quattro (250PS), A8 4.2 TDI quattro (350PS). A8 3.0 TDI (204PS) was added later.
Initial internal combustion engine options comprise 4.2-litre Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) petrol and Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) diesel V8s, with 273 kW (366 hp) and 258 kW (346 hp) respectively. A 3.0-litre V6 TDI with either 184 kilowatts (247 hp) or 150 kilowatts (201 hp) will be available later. A 6.3-litre W12 engine only for the long wheelbase model was made available in 2010, and compared to its predecessor it has a larger displacement and direct fuel injection. All engines are mated to the new eight-speed ZF 8HP automatic transmission. Although other Audi vehicles such as the 2010 Audi S4 and 2011 Audi A7 had switched from the 4.2l V8 to the 3.0L supercharged V6, the Audi A8 retained a higher-output 4.2L V8 as the base engine for the 2011 and 2012 model years in North America.
Taiwan models went on sale on the 11th November 2010 . Early models include 3.0 TFSI quattro (290PS).
A8 L (2010–PRESENT)
The vehicle was unveiled in Auto China 2010., followed by the 2011 Taipei Motor Show (A8 L W12 quattro).
German models went on sale in the fall of 2010. Early models include a 3.0 TFSI quattro (290PS), a 4.2 FSI quattro (372PS), a W12 6.3 FSI quattro (500PS), a 3.0 TDI quattro (250PS) and a 4.2 TDI quattro (350PS).
Taiwan models went on sale on the 11th November 2010. Early models include a 3.0 TFSI quattro (290PS) and a 4.2 FSI quattro (372PS).[42] The A8L W12 quattro was added in 2011. the A8L 4.0 TFSI quattro was added in 2012.
Chinese models went on sale in 2011. Early models include an A8L 3.0 TFSI low quattro (289PS), and an A8L 3.0 TFSI high quattro (333PS).
A8 HYBRID CONCEPT (2010)
The concept vehicle includes a 2.0 TFSI engine rated at 211 PS (155 kW; 208 bhp) and 350 N·m @1500–4200 rpm, a disc-shaped electric motor rated 45 PS (33 kW; 44 bhp) and 211 N·m, lithium-ion battery, luggage space of 400 liters (14.13 cubic feet), 21-inch wheels with 265/35 tires, Prism Silver body colour with Spectra Flair accent colour, 'hybrid' lettering on both front fenders, illuminated doorsteps with 'hybrid' insignia.
The vehicle was unveiled in 2010 at The Geneva Motor Show.
A8 L long-term evolution broadband prototype (2011)
It is a version of the A8 L demonstrating 4G long-term evolution (LTE) broadband technology. Developed in collaboration with Alcatel-Lucent, the car's mobile broadband connection is a fourth generation (‘4G’) technology with data transfer speeds of up to 100Mbit/s.
During the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, announced that LTE technology would be used in cars by early 2011. The A8 L prototype was unveiled weeks later.
A8 L SECURITY (2011–PRESENT)
The A8 L Security is an armoured version of the A8 L with class VR 7 ballistic protection standard (tested as per BRV 2009 guidelines), resistance to explosions against a military hand grenade (tested as per ERV 2010 guidelines), with certain areas of the armouring complies with the criteria for class VR 9 and VR 10, a core safety cell made from hot-formed armoured steel, aramide fabric, ceramics, special alloyed aluminium and multilayer glass; overlapping protective materials at the joints, aluminum side sills with solid steel sections, aluminum alloy armored floor, side windows, windshield and rear window made of special glass with a polycarbonate coating; optional electromechanical window openers, closing assist feature comes standard for the doors, communication box in the luggage compartment (light ceramic doors, aluminum frame), optional battery and the fuel tank protection, two-way communication system with a speaker in the single-frame grille and microphones for the cabin and exterior, an emergency exit system with pyrotechnical separating screws in the hinges, fire extinguisher system, emergency fresh-air system with two oxygen cartridges, a smoke extractor for the passenger compartment, an LED signaling system for convoy travel, flashing lights, a siren, a preparation for professional mobile radio systems, a flag holder, a permanently installed telephone, an accident data recorder, an additional rearview camera and a heated windshield plus partially heated side windows, four-zone climate control system with an ionizer to freshen the air, electric rear blinds, the sonorous Bose surround sound system and a TV tuner, rear are two individual seats with power adjustment, front comfort seats with heating and optional massage and ventilation functions, standard full-leather package, optional relaxation seat (adjustable right-hand rear seat with a power-adjustable footrest, heating and massage), optional center console with large storage compartments and rear seat entertainment system with two 10.2-inch displays, optional folding table, optional refrigerator optional parking heater, Bluetooth car phone online, integrated UMTS module, optional separate telephone handsets, 19-inch forged wheels featuring in semipolished two-tone finish, 255/720 tires with a high load index of 117, synthetic rings on the rims, optional full-size spare tire.
The first model included a W12 engine rated 368 kW (500 PS) and 625 N·m, with delivery began in late summer 2011. An additional engine model with improved fuel efficiency went on sale in 2012.
The vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.
Deliveries began in late summer 2011.
A8 HYBRID (2012–PRESENT)
The production version includes an electric motor rated at 40 kW (54 PS) and 210 N·m, 1.25 kWh lithium-ion battery, 18-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels in turbine blades design (optional 19-inch), hybrid badges, metallic paint finish (optional Arctic Silver body colour), three-zone automatic air conditioning, LED headlights, and a BOSE sound system. Pure electric mode is available for either a top speed of 100 km/h or for up to 3 kilometres at a constant speed of 60 km/h. It went on sale in 2012.
The vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.
A8 L W12 Audi EXCLUSIVE CONCEPT
It is a limited (50 units) version of the A8 L W12 with seats upholstered in Cognac-colored leather by Poltrona Frau, inlays made from the wood olive ash natural, light gray-brown veneer, sill trims with "Audi exclusive concept" lettering, deep-pile carpeting.
The vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.
A8 L HYCRID
The long wheelbase version of the A8 hybrid was unveiled in 2010 at the Beijing Auto Show.
S8 4.0 TFSI QUATTRO (2012–PRESENT)
The D4 series Audi S8 4.0 TFSI quattro went on sale in 2012. Like the previous iteration, the S8 costs less than the A8 L W12.
The S8 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 4.2 seconds. It is powered by a 4.0-litre TFSI biturbo V8 engine with 382 kW (512 hp). The engine utilises cylinder deactivation so it can run as a V4 for better fuel economy.[69] The S8's engine is shared with the Bentley Continental GT, while a detuned variant of the engine makes 420 hp which is found in the 2013 Audi S6, Audi S7, and Audi A8. Direct competitors include the BMW Alpina B7 and Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, which also have biturbo V8 engines.
The vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show, and went on sale in spring 2012.
Taiwan models went on sale in 2013.
MARKETING
As part of the Audi A8 launch in Taiwan, Audi built up Audi pavilion in Xin-Yi district, with Tom Dixon invited for the launch event. Yu-Cheng Chou and Chun-Ten Lin's art works were displayed with A8.
The Audi A8 3.0 TFSI quattro (290PS) was used in Transporter: The Series.
2013 MODEL YEAR UPDATE
Early German A8 models include 3.0 TFSI quattro (290PS), 4.0 TFSI quattro (420PS), 3.0 TDI (204PS), 3.0 TDI quattro (250PS), 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro (250PS), 4.2 TDI quattro (350PS), A8 L W12 quattro (500PS), A8 hybrid 2.0 TFSI. Early German A8 L Security models include 4.0 TFSI quattro, W12 6.3 FSI quattro.
The updated A8 uses LED headlight technology, with automatic high beam lighting, Osram supplies the LEDs while Hella supplies the headlamp itself.
Early US models include the A8(L) 3.0 TFSI quattro (333PS), the A8(L) 4.0 TFSI quattro, the S8 4.0 TFSI quattro and the A8 L W12 6.3 FSI quattro. The A8 3.0 TFSI quattro and A8 4.0 TFSI quattro replaced the A8 4.2 FSI quattro.[80] The A8 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro (240PS) was unveiled at the 2012 L.A. Auto Show, and was set to go on sale in Spring 2013 as a 2014 model year vehicle. The A8 L 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro (240PS) was set to go on sale in Spring 2013 on sale as a 2014 model year vehicle.
Chinese models include the A8L 30 FSI (204PS), the A8L 40 hybrid, the A8L 45 TFSI quattro (290PS), the A8L 55 TFSI quattro (333PS), the A8L W12 FSI quattro and the S8 4.0 TFSI quattro.
The A8 L 2.0 TFSI hybrid is sold as an A8L 40 hybrid in China.
The A8 L 3.0 TFSI quattro (290PS) is sold as an A8L 45 TFSI quattro in China.
TRANSMISSION
All models include an eight-speed tiptronic transmission.
PRUDUCTION
2013–2014 Audi A8 and S8 vehicles equipped with a standard sunroof, manufactured between March 12, 2013 and July 15, 2013 were recalled due to possible shattering of sunroof glass panel.
WIKIPEDIA
The touchpad can also be pressed for other options, depending on how the game developer assigned it to be. The start and select buttons are no longer here, as they were replaced by the share and options button. A small speaker can be found below the touchpad.
How to disable touchpad on Debian or Ubuntu Desktop
If you would like to use this photo, be sure to place a proper attribution linking to xmodulo.com
We take touch screen hand held devices for granted these days with the huge amount of modern smart phones available today.
The evolution of Hewlett Packard's hand held devices is a little different and reasonably interesting however.
In 1995, HP produced the OmniGo 100 - a small hand held clamshell device with a touchscreen that was used with a small stylus. It was one of the early PDA/ electronic diary devices (top left - folded in half hiding the keyboard).
In 2000, HP produced the Xpander (top right), which was to be a revolution in maths learning - it featured a touch screen (again with a stylus) and powerful graphing and maths software. For whatever reason, HP pulled the pin on the development and most Xpanders were destroyed. Only some survive in collections (like mine!).
Following the huge success of the iPad and similar devices from other manufacturers, HP released the Touchpad in 2011 (top-middle) - it made it to the shop shelves, only to be sold off 'cheap' when HP announced it's discontinuation.
In 2013, HP released the Slate7 (bottom left) - HP's first Android touch screen device. It was was a 7 inch device sold for around $200 in a competitive market - it's still for sale and is doing reasonably well.
Also in 2013, HP released the Prime graphing calculator (bottom right) - HP's first colour screen and touch screen calculator.
Note that this is not an exhaustive list, but a bit of a snapshot of the evolution of touch screen hand helds from HP. It is also worth noting that HP acquired the electronics company, Palm, in 2010. Palm manufactured smart phones and were responsible for the development of the WebOS operating system used in the Touchpad.
The DualShock 4 was designed for use with the PlayStation 4. A lot of changes can be seen here, like the touchpad ad the middle, a speaker, headphone jack, and the removal of the select and start buttons, but the inclusion of the option and share buttons.
Set: Gaming - Consoles. Yeno Prof. Weiss-Alles Video-Lerncomputer (1988). (German version of Vtech Socrates). It also had a wireless mouse, touchpad and even a CAD software cartridge. How cool is that!?
Explore #186
Tämän harvinaisen laitteen tarkoitus ei ollut päästä joka kodin pelikoneeksi, vaan sitä myytiin lähinnä sairaaloiden lastenosastoille. Sen vuoksi koneessa olikin langaton näppis jo tuohon aikaan: Tenavat pääsivät käyttämään konetta sängystä käsin. Näppäimistö toimii paristoilla, mutta olisikohan se suunniteltu tulevaisuudessa toimimaan akulla? Siihen viittaa ainakin tuo outo design: Näppäimistö nimittäin uppoaa poikittain konsolin selkään. Akku olisi voinut latautua silloin kun konetta ei käytetä. Professori Kaikkitietäväinen toimii verkkovirran lisäksi myös paristoilla.
businesswoman hand holding a phone with isolated screen against the background of the table in the office
The Audi A8 is a four-door, full-size, luxury sedan manufactured and marketed by the German automaker Audi since 1994. Succeeding the Audi V8, and now in its third generation, the A8 has been offered with both front- or permanent all-wheel drive - and in short- and long-wheelbase variants. The first two generations employed the Volkswagen Group D platform, with the current generation deriving from the MLB platform. After the original model's 1994 release, Audi released the second generation in late 2002, and the third and current iteration in late 2009.
Notable for being the first mass-market car with an aluminium chassis, all A8 models have used this construction method co-developed with Alcoa and marketed as the Audi Space Frame.
A mechanically-upgraded, high-performance version of the A8 debuted in 1996 as the Audi S8. Produced exclusively at Audi's Neckarsulm plant, unlike the donor A8 model, the S8 has been available only in short-wheelbase form and is fitted standard with Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system.
FIRST GENERATION (D2, Typ 4D; 1994–2002)
DEVELOPMENT
In 1982, Ferdinand Piëch signed an agreement with Aluminum Company of America. The objective was to design and develop a car that would be substantially lighter than any other vehicles in its class (to compensate for the fact that standard all-wheel drive was around 100 kg heavier than competitors' rear-wheel drive). In the late 1980s, it was decided that the target vehicle would be a successor to the V8 (Typ 4C) flagship introduced in 1988. By 1991, a final design by Chris Bird and Dirk van Braeckel was chosen and frozen for series production in 1992. In September 1993, the Audi Space Frame (ASF) Concept was unveiled at the 1993 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) as a D2 Typ 4D prototype in polished aluminum. Pilot production began in December 1993 and development ended in early 1994, at a total cost of $700 million (£418.1 million).
INTRODUCTION
The Audi A8 (Typ 4D) was presented in February 1994 and debuted at the 1994 Geneva Auto Show in March, with full-scale factory production commencing in June 1994, although it was not until October 1996, for the 1997 model year that it became available in North America. Unlike its predecessor, the Audi V8 model, which was built on an existing steel platform, the A8 debuted on the then-new Volkswagen Group D2 platform, an all aluminium monocoque, marketed as the "Audi Space Frame" (ASF), which helped to reduce weight and preserve structural rigidity. The saloon/sedan was offered in both the A8 (standard wheelbase), and the A8 L extended or long-wheelbase (LWB) version. The A8 L adds 127 mm of rear legroom. Updates to the car in 1997 included the addition of six interior airbags.
In 1997, Audi introduced the first series production ESP Electronic stability control for all-wheel drive vehicles (Audi A8 and Audi A6)– the world's first production cars with both front and rear side airbags.
For 1997, the new A8 was available with either front-wheel drive (FWD), or the Torsen-based quattro permanent four-wheel drive. The FWD models are powered by a 2.8-litre V6 engine, producing 142 kilowatts (193 PS; 190 bhp), and a 3.7-litre V8 engine producing 171.5 kilowatts (233 PS; 230 bhp), while the quattro received a 4.2-litre V8 producing 220 kilowatts (299 PS; 295 bhp).
The A8 is available with standard luxury amenities, including dual-zone climate control, wood and leather interior trim, 14-way power and heated seats, and an enhanced Bose audio system.
In 1999, Audi's flagship received side curtain airbags, new colours, and restructuring of option packages. The North American "warm weather package" added a solar sunroof which allows the interior ventilation fans to run, keeping the interior cool while the car is parked with the engine turned off. Changes to all models included a larger passenger-side mirror, and a first aid kit located in the rear centre armrest.
In 1999 for the 2000 model year came a minor front-end restyle, with new, larger, clear headlights, a revised grille, and lower front valance with standard projection fog lamps. On the interior, the seats received a new, horizontal stitch pattern. Also, the 3.7-litre V8 FWD model was dropped, leaving the 2.8 V6 model and the long-wheelbase and short-wheelbase 4.2-litre quattro. These restyled cars also featured revised external door handles and an integrated radio antenna. For 2000, the North American A8 line-up was expanded to include the A8 L.
In 2001, Audi introduced its new W12 engine, a compact 6.0-litre unit developed by effectively mating two VR6 engines together at the crankshaft. The engine quickly became available in the A8, though only to European and Asian customers. From its introduction through its discontinuation in 2003, only 750 of the D2 "W12" models were produced. 2001 also marked the debut of the high-performance S8 variant in North American markets.
In 2002, the A8 L received standard xenon high-intensity discharge lamp (HID) headlights, and a heated steering wheel. A tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), an updated Symphony II stereo, and new exterior colours were also added. For 2002, all A8 variants received a trunk/boot interior release lever to facilitate escape in the event an individual became trapped within.
Factory production of this generation ceased at Number 105,092 on August 4, 2002.
COUPE (PROTOTYPE)
In 1997, IVM Automotive of Munich, Germany built a two-door Audi A8 Coupé. The car was unveiled at the 1997 Geneva Motor Show. Audi contracted IVM to build the prototype, and was considering production of the vehicle. The coupé had a re-engineered aluminium body, shorter than the production A8 saloon. Like the Mercedes-Benz CL-Class, there was no central "B" pillar, giving the car a seamless design with a gradually sloping roofline. The car included custom leather seats which could seat four. Ultimately, Audi decided not to put the A8 Coupé into production, citing lower-than-expected sales figures for the similar BMW 8 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupé. Only one A8 Coupé was ever built. The single prototype, painted in a colour called "Ming Blue pearl", remains the property of IVM Automotive, and resides in Munich. Its last public appearance was in 2002 on a series of test drives.
S8
Audi introduced the S8 4.2 quattro into the European market in 1996. The S8 followed the naming convention of other high-performance Audi "S" models such as the Audi A6-derived S6 and was similar in vein of Mercedes-Benz AMG models. In markets such as the UK, the S8 was only available with the automatic transmission. Cosmetically, Audi differentiated the S8 from the A8 with solid aluminium alloy door mirror housings, chrome-effect beltline and lower front grille trim, and polished twin exhaust pipes, along with subtle "S8" badging. 14-way power adjustable and heated sports front seats with memory function were fitted as were heated rear seats. Standard alloy wheels were 18-inch cast aluminium alloy "Avus" six-spoke style. After the 1999 facelift, 20-inch polished nine-spoke RS wheels became an option. In 2002, 18-inch nine-spoke RS wheels became a no-cost option.
At the same time of the A8's facelift in late 1999, the S8 received the same cosmetic upgrades. This update marked the release of the S8 to the North American market. Production of the D2 series S8 ended in September 2002.
The D2 series S8 featured an uprated, 250 kW (335 hp) version of the 4.2-litre V8 with four valves per cylinder. From late 1999, Audi increased this to five valves per cylinder with power increased to 265 kilowatts (355 hp) and 430 newton metres. From launch in 1996, European-market models came standard with a six-speed manual transmission. A sports-recalibrated version of the ZF 5HP24 five-speed tiptronic automatic, featuring "Dynamic Shift Programme" (DSP) was released a year later and was the only transmission available in most other markets.
A retuned, 20-millimetre (0.8 in) lowered sports suspension included a 30 percent stiffer spring rate and 40 percent more compression damping in the shock absorbers. Speed-sensitive "servotronic" power assisted steering was also standard.
The brakes featured Bosch 5.3 anti-lock braking system (ABS), with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and worked radially ventilated front discs. From 2002, an upgraded Bosch 5.7 electronic stability programme became standard fitment.
SECOND GENERATION (D3, Typ 4E; 2002–2009)
The second-generation Audi A8 (Typ 4E) built on the Volkswagen Group D3 platform was unveiled via press release in July 2002 and introduced in November 2002 in Europe and in June 2003 (as a 2004 model) in the United States. The model was longer than the previous generation, with room for four or five large adult occupants in the cabin, depending on rear seat configuration. The D3 development program began in 1996, with the design process commencing in Ingolstadt in 1997. The whole Audi design studio based in Ingolstadt first contributed sketch proposals, from which numerous different themes emerged. Six of them were developed into full size clay models and worked up in a traditional manner adjacent to full size tape drawings. At least three one quarter scale models were produced to explore other design variations.
The six full size exterior clay models were reduced to two in late 1998 and these continued to be refined in parallel for a year. At the end of 1999 the final theme selection was made, by Miklós Kovács and Imre Hasanic the main contributing designers. This lengthy development time was in part due to the body being made from aluminium, a material less able to take the small radii of sharp feature lines such as those on the (steel bodied) A4 (B6) designed in 1998.
In parallel to the exterior design development the interior design was progressed with a total of four full size models produced and the production car's horizontally themed instrument panel design dominant from early on, with Norbert Schneider, Mark Bergold and Enzo Rothfuss the main contributing designers.
Grouping major controls nearer the driver for a more driver focused identity whilst creating a more airy and spacious feel were early priorities for the interior design team was headed by Jurgen Albamonte. This was in part facilitated by the Multi Media Interface (MMI) designed by Jurgen Schröder, that pioneered on the D3 A8 after the Audi Avantissimo concept car preview, and also by class leading colour and trim from Barbara Krömeke and Melinda Jenkins.
Under the supervision of Dany Garand, during the first half of 2000 exterior and interior clay models were digitized and developed using digital design tools in a supporting, not leading, capacity. The D3 final production design was later frozen in the summer of 2000 for an August 2002 start of production.
The A8 was previewed 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show by the Audi Avantissimo concept car. This concept introduced much of the technology later available on the series production A8 D3, including: Multi Media Interface, 6-speed automatic transmission with shift paddles, V8 biturbo engine (S8), self-levelling adaptive air suspension with continuously controlled damping, electric park brake, bi-xenon headlights with static Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) curve headlights, dashboard, driver identification systems with fingerprint scanner.
As with the previous version, two body variants of the second generation A8 are offered, the A8 (standard, or short wheelbase), and the long-wheelbase (LWB) A8 L. The A8 L adds 120 mm to the rear legroom and 11 mm to the overall height of the car.
INNOVATIONS
- World premiere of Multi Media Interface (MMI) in-car user interface (similar to BMW iDrive)
- Multiplexed high speed MOST Bus optical fiber data networks (interconnecting tens of microprocessors on common databusses), integrated with MMI.
- First Audi with Bi-Xenon HID headlamps for both low and high beam
- World premiere of static Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) curve headlights (from Hella)
- First Audi with 4-wheel Adaptive Air Suspension and Continuous Damping Control (CDC)-(Skyhook suspension).
- First Audi GPS navigation system with DVD maps
- First Audi with six-speed automatic transmission (Tiptronic)
- First Audi featuring driver identification system.
In 2005, new internal combustion engines became available. For European and Asian market customers, the entry-level 3.0-litre V6 engine was replaced with a new 3.2-litre unit featuring Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI), which it shared with the Audi B7 A4 and Audi C6 A6. The top-of-the-line W12 version debuted that year. The advantage of the W12 engine layout is its compact packaging, allowing Audi to build a 12-cylinder sedan with all-wheel drive, whereas a conventional V12 could only have a rear-wheel drive configuration as it would have no space in the engine bay for a differential and other components required to power the front wheels. In fact, Audi's 6.0-litre W12 is actually slightly smaller by overall dimensions than the 4.2-litre V8.
In addition to the added power trains, Audi restyled the D3 platform A8 range slightly in 2005, giving all variants a taller, wider trapezoidal single-frame grille. The top-of-the-line W12 engined W12 version was the first model to be equipped with this grille; V8 engined models were fitted with the new grille the following year.
The D3 generation A8 introduced the 235 kW (315 hp) 4.2-litre Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) V8 engine (subsequently uprated to 240 kW (322 hp)). The engine uses two turbochargers and two intercoolers, with each turbocharger functioning exclusively for one bank of four cylinders.
The adaptive air suspension gives the vehicle clearance a range from its normal 120 mm up to 145 mm in lift mode and down to 95 mm in the Autobahn mode, which is automatically activated when a speed of more than 120 km/h is maintained for more than 30 seconds.
In September 2005 Audi became the first car maker to offer the 1,000-watt 14-channel ICEpower sound system option from Bang & Olufsen.
A8 L W12 QUATTRO SECURITY
It is an armoured vehicle with B6+ and B7 (European standard) ballistic ratings. It includes a W12 engine rated 331 kW (450 PS) and 580 N·m (428 lbf·ft), emergency exit system featuring pyrotechnic blown-out doors, fire extinguisher system with spray jets located in the engine compartment, underbody and in the wheel arches; smoke extractor in passenger compartment, run flat tires, bullet proof windows, the full protection plus package and LED flashers in the exterior mirrors. Buyers are also offered facility to dispatch two drivers on a special training course.
S8 5.2 FSI QUATTRO
The S8 high-performance sports variant, now called the "Audi S8 5.2 FSI quattro" was announced in the last quarter of 2005 and full production started in June 2006 and ended in September 2009.
The S8 includes subtle detailing to distinguish it from its related A8. The trapezoidal "single-frame" grille bears the characteristic Audi "S model" vertical strut detail which are highlighted in a chrome finish. "S8" badging is displayed front and rear, whilst "V10" badges are displayed on each front wing above the side-repeater indicators. The rear boot-lid incorporates a subtle rear spoiler, and the rear is finished with four chromed oval exhaust tailpipes. Adaptive Xenon-plus high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps include static turning lights, along with "swiveling" dynamic cornering lights. Daytime running lamps are five light-emitting diodes (LEDs) incorporated into a cloverleaf designed reflector, incorporated into the main headlamp housing.
The D3 series S8 features a 5.2-litre all-aluminium alloy four-valves per cylinder V10 petrol engine. This engine is a derivative of the Lamborghini Gallardo's original 5.0-litre Lamborghini V10, which was also developed under the Volkswagen Group ownership. On this Audi-only variant, compared to the Lamborghini engine, it features a longer stroke and wider bore - which increases the displacement of the engine, and produces more torque at lower revs, making it more suitable for the larger and heavier full-sized luxury Audi application. It produces 331 kW (444 hp) of power and 540 N·m of torque. By having its bore whittled out an additional 2 millimetres, displacement in the S8 application increases from 5.0- to 5.2-litres. The engine also features Audi's direct-injection system, called Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI).
A sports-optimised ZF 6HP26-A61 six-speed tiptronic automatic transmission with "Dynamic Shift Programme" (DSP) and "sport" mode, with steering wheel mounted paddle-shifters, is the only offering. Output is transmitted via Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system, initially using the Torsen T-2 50:50 dynamic centre differential, and from 2007 for the 2008 model year, utilising the Torsen T-3 asymmetric dynamic centre differential, with a "default" torque distribution of 40 percent to the front axle and 60 percent to the rear.
The S8's top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. Audi's factory performance claims indicate a 0 to 100 km/h time of 5.1 seconds whilst consuming 98 RON unleaded petrol. The S8 has similar performance to Audi's own top-of-the-line A8 L W12, though the W12 is more expensive, has more torque, and built on a longer wheelbase. Compared to the A8 L W12, the S8 has sportier mechanical features such as a firmer suspension, larger wheels, and ceramic brakes. The shorter wheelbase and 10-cylinder engine save weight for better handling, but at 5.4 seconds from 0–60 mph the S8 trails the W12.
The S8, like its related A8, utilises a multi-link suspension layout front and rear, with pressurised air springs. However, for the S8, the effective spring and damper rates are noticeably firmer, along with re-engineered suspension mounts.
The brake system consists of radially ventilated discs all round. The discs are clamped with gloss-black painted dual-piston calipers up front, and a single-piston sliding caliper at the rear, coupled to an electro-mechanical parking brake. A Bosch ESP 5.7 (later upgraded to ESP 8.0) electronic stability control, with ABS, brake assist, EBD complete the brake system. Optional "Audi ceramic" carbon fibre-reinforced silicon carbide (C/SiC) composite front and rear brakes are available, which use radially vented, and floating SGL Carbon discs, with anthracite grey painted twelve-piston fixed Brembo monobloc alloy calipers. Standard alloy wheels consist of 20-inch "S design" alloy wheels.
A8L CENTENNIAL LIMITED EDITION (2009–)
The A8L Centennial Limited Edition (奧迪A8L百年限量版) is a limited (800 units total) version of the A8L 3.0 FSI with multitronic and the A8L 6.0 W12 quattro for the Chinese market, commemorating Audi's 100th anniversary. It included horizontal chrome-plated front grille (from the A8L 6.0 W12 quattro), "V6" metal logo at the upper left of the air-inlet grille (A8L 3.0 FSI), LED daytime running lights, heated leather steering wheel, 19-inch 12-spoke polished aluminium alloy wheels, heated steering wheel in grey leather with beige stitching, Bang & Olufsen advanced audio system, Alcantara equipment bag, Assam ash red veneer, floor mat with aluminium trim, a metal 'Audi exclusive' commemorative logo at inn door trims.
The vehicles went on sale on the 18 October 2009 as 2010 model year vehicles.
In North America, only the 4.2 V8, 5.2 V10, and 6.0 W12 petrol engines are available. The 4.0 TDI was discontinued when the 4.2 TDI was introduced.
Third generation (D4, Typ 4H; 2010–present)
The third generation of the Audi A8 was introduced in Miami on 30 November 2009. The chassis was built on the Volkswagen D2 platform.
INITIAL RELEASE
NEW FEATURES
Changes include:
Full LED headlamps with Automatic high beam switching or Audi adaptive light (Xenon) with variable headlight range control
enhanced MMI Multi Media Interface with touchpad & handwriting recognition for the phone and navigation system, using Nvidia Tegra System on a chip for very high processing speed.
optional 1,400 watt Bang & Olufsen sound system.
driver assistance systems networked using FlexRay technology.
Hard disk drive GPS navigation with 3D computer graphics with Google Earth.,
navigation system coordinates input to the adaptive headlights, transmission, adaptive cruise control and electronic stability control.
Infrared Night Vision Assistant with pedestrian recognition
broadband internet with UMTS 3G and WLAN-Hotspot
First production Audi with a Collision avoidance system: Pre sense (similar to Mercedes-Benz Pre-Safe). The full version of the system (Pre Sense Plus) works in four phases. In the first phase, the system provides warning of an impending accident, while the hazard warning lights are activated, the side windows and sunroof are closed and the front seat belts are tensioned. In the second phase, the warning is followed by light braking, strong enough to win the driver's attention. The third phase initiates autonomous partial braking at a rate of 3 m/s². The fourth phase decelerates the car at 5 m/s² followed by automatic deceleration at full braking power, roughly half a second before projected impact. A second system, called (Pre Sense Rear), is designed to reduce the consequences of rear-end collisions. The sunroof and windows are closed and seat belts are prepared for impact. The optional memory seats are moved forward to protect the car's occupants. The system uses sensor fusion with twin radar and a mono camera and was introduced in 2010.
A8 (L) (2010–)
The third-generation Audi A8 (L) (Typ 4H) is based on the Volkswagen Group MLB platform, but retains the Audi Space Frame aluminium construction of the previous A8, making it the lightest all-wheel drive car in the full-size luxury segment, while also giving it best-in-class fuel economy. The quattro all-wheel drive system splits torque with a default bias of 40 percent front and 60 percent rear.
The vehicle was unveiled in Design Miami 2009 on 30 November 2009., followed by the 2010 North American International Auto Show.
Early models include A8 4.2 FSI quattro (372PS), A8 3.0 TDI quattro (250PS), A8 4.2 TDI quattro (350PS). A8 3.0 TDI (204PS) was added later.
Initial internal combustion engine options comprise 4.2-litre Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) petrol and Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) diesel V8s, with 273 kW (366 hp) and 258 kW (346 hp) respectively. A 3.0-litre V6 TDI with either 184 kilowatts (247 hp) or 150 kilowatts (201 hp) will be available later. A 6.3-litre W12 engine only for the long wheelbase model was made available in 2010, and compared to its predecessor it has a larger displacement and direct fuel injection. All engines are mated to the new eight-speed ZF 8HP automatic transmission. Although other Audi vehicles such as the 2010 Audi S4 and 2011 Audi A7 had switched from the 4.2l V8 to the 3.0L supercharged V6, the Audi A8 retained a higher-output 4.2L V8 as the base engine for the 2011 and 2012 model years in North America.
Taiwan models went on sale on the 11th November 2010 . Early models include 3.0 TFSI quattro (290PS).
A8 L (2010–PRESENT)
The vehicle was unveiled in Auto China 2010., followed by the 2011 Taipei Motor Show (A8 L W12 quattro).
German models went on sale in the fall of 2010. Early models include a 3.0 TFSI quattro (290PS), a 4.2 FSI quattro (372PS), a W12 6.3 FSI quattro (500PS), a 3.0 TDI quattro (250PS) and a 4.2 TDI quattro (350PS).
Taiwan models went on sale on the 11th November 2010. Early models include a 3.0 TFSI quattro (290PS) and a 4.2 FSI quattro (372PS).[42] The A8L W12 quattro was added in 2011. the A8L 4.0 TFSI quattro was added in 2012.
Chinese models went on sale in 2011. Early models include an A8L 3.0 TFSI low quattro (289PS), and an A8L 3.0 TFSI high quattro (333PS).
A8 HYBRID CONCEPT (2010)
The concept vehicle includes a 2.0 TFSI engine rated at 211 PS (155 kW; 208 bhp) and 350 N·m @1500–4200 rpm, a disc-shaped electric motor rated 45 PS (33 kW; 44 bhp) and 211 N·m, lithium-ion battery, luggage space of 400 liters (14.13 cubic feet), 21-inch wheels with 265/35 tires, Prism Silver body colour with Spectra Flair accent colour, 'hybrid' lettering on both front fenders, illuminated doorsteps with 'hybrid' insignia.
The vehicle was unveiled in 2010 at The Geneva Motor Show.
A8 L long-term evolution broadband prototype (2011)
It is a version of the A8 L demonstrating 4G long-term evolution (LTE) broadband technology. Developed in collaboration with Alcatel-Lucent, the car's mobile broadband connection is a fourth generation (‘4G’) technology with data transfer speeds of up to 100Mbit/s.
During the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, announced that LTE technology would be used in cars by early 2011. The A8 L prototype was unveiled weeks later.
A8 L SECURITY (2011–PRESENT)
The A8 L Security is an armoured version of the A8 L with class VR 7 ballistic protection standard (tested as per BRV 2009 guidelines), resistance to explosions against a military hand grenade (tested as per ERV 2010 guidelines), with certain areas of the armouring complies with the criteria for class VR 9 and VR 10, a core safety cell made from hot-formed armoured steel, aramide fabric, ceramics, special alloyed aluminium and multilayer glass; overlapping protective materials at the joints, aluminum side sills with solid steel sections, aluminum alloy armored floor, side windows, windshield and rear window made of special glass with a polycarbonate coating; optional electromechanical window openers, closing assist feature comes standard for the doors, communication box in the luggage compartment (light ceramic doors, aluminum frame), optional battery and the fuel tank protection, two-way communication system with a speaker in the single-frame grille and microphones for the cabin and exterior, an emergency exit system with pyrotechnical separating screws in the hinges, fire extinguisher system, emergency fresh-air system with two oxygen cartridges, a smoke extractor for the passenger compartment, an LED signaling system for convoy travel, flashing lights, a siren, a preparation for professional mobile radio systems, a flag holder, a permanently installed telephone, an accident data recorder, an additional rearview camera and a heated windshield plus partially heated side windows, four-zone climate control system with an ionizer to freshen the air, electric rear blinds, the sonorous Bose surround sound system and a TV tuner, rear are two individual seats with power adjustment, front comfort seats with heating and optional massage and ventilation functions, standard full-leather package, optional relaxation seat (adjustable right-hand rear seat with a power-adjustable footrest, heating and massage), optional center console with large storage compartments and rear seat entertainment system with two 10.2-inch displays, optional folding table, optional refrigerator optional parking heater, Bluetooth car phone online, integrated UMTS module, optional separate telephone handsets, 19-inch forged wheels featuring in semipolished two-tone finish, 255/720 tires with a high load index of 117, synthetic rings on the rims, optional full-size spare tire.
The first model included a W12 engine rated 368 kW (500 PS) and 625 N·m, with delivery began in late summer 2011. An additional engine model with improved fuel efficiency went on sale in 2012.
The vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.
Deliveries began in late summer 2011.
A8 HYBRID (2012–PRESENT)
The production version includes an electric motor rated at 40 kW (54 PS) and 210 N·m, 1.25 kWh lithium-ion battery, 18-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels in turbine blades design (optional 19-inch), hybrid badges, metallic paint finish (optional Arctic Silver body colour), three-zone automatic air conditioning, LED headlights, and a BOSE sound system. Pure electric mode is available for either a top speed of 100 km/h or for up to 3 kilometres at a constant speed of 60 km/h. It went on sale in 2012.
The vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.
A8 L W12 Audi EXCLUSIVE CONCEPT
It is a limited (50 units) version of the A8 L W12 with seats upholstered in Cognac-colored leather by Poltrona Frau, inlays made from the wood olive ash natural, light gray-brown veneer, sill trims with "Audi exclusive concept" lettering, deep-pile carpeting.
The vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.
A8 L HYCRID
The long wheelbase version of the A8 hybrid was unveiled in 2010 at the Beijing Auto Show.
S8 4.0 TFSI QUATTRO (2012–PRESENT)
The D4 series Audi S8 4.0 TFSI quattro went on sale in 2012. Like the previous iteration, the S8 costs less than the A8 L W12.
The S8 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 4.2 seconds. It is powered by a 4.0-litre TFSI biturbo V8 engine with 382 kW (512 hp). The engine utilises cylinder deactivation so it can run as a V4 for better fuel economy.[69] The S8's engine is shared with the Bentley Continental GT, while a detuned variant of the engine makes 420 hp which is found in the 2013 Audi S6, Audi S7, and Audi A8. Direct competitors include the BMW Alpina B7 and Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, which also have biturbo V8 engines.
The vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show, and went on sale in spring 2012.
Taiwan models went on sale in 2013.
MARKETING
As part of the Audi A8 launch in Taiwan, Audi built up Audi pavilion in Xin-Yi district, with Tom Dixon invited for the launch event. Yu-Cheng Chou and Chun-Ten Lin's art works were displayed with A8.
The Audi A8 3.0 TFSI quattro (290PS) was used in Transporter: The Series.
2013 MODEL YEAR UPDATE
Early German A8 models include 3.0 TFSI quattro (290PS), 4.0 TFSI quattro (420PS), 3.0 TDI (204PS), 3.0 TDI quattro (250PS), 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro (250PS), 4.2 TDI quattro (350PS), A8 L W12 quattro (500PS), A8 hybrid 2.0 TFSI. Early German A8 L Security models include 4.0 TFSI quattro, W12 6.3 FSI quattro.
The updated A8 uses LED headlight technology, with automatic high beam lighting, Osram supplies the LEDs while Hella supplies the headlamp itself.
Early US models include the A8(L) 3.0 TFSI quattro (333PS), the A8(L) 4.0 TFSI quattro, the S8 4.0 TFSI quattro and the A8 L W12 6.3 FSI quattro. The A8 3.0 TFSI quattro and A8 4.0 TFSI quattro replaced the A8 4.2 FSI quattro.[80] The A8 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro (240PS) was unveiled at the 2012 L.A. Auto Show, and was set to go on sale in Spring 2013 as a 2014 model year vehicle. The A8 L 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro (240PS) was set to go on sale in Spring 2013 on sale as a 2014 model year vehicle.
Chinese models include the A8L 30 FSI (204PS), the A8L 40 hybrid, the A8L 45 TFSI quattro (290PS), the A8L 55 TFSI quattro (333PS), the A8L W12 FSI quattro and the S8 4.0 TFSI quattro.
The A8 L 2.0 TFSI hybrid is sold as an A8L 40 hybrid in China.
The A8 L 3.0 TFSI quattro (290PS) is sold as an A8L 45 TFSI quattro in China.
TRANSMISSION
All models include an eight-speed tiptronic transmission.
PRUDUCTION
2013–2014 Audi A8 and S8 vehicles equipped with a standard sunroof, manufactured between March 12, 2013 and July 15, 2013 were recalled due to possible shattering of sunroof glass panel.
WIKIPEDIA
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