audi to invest billions (11,8) in new models

[Coaster]

[source: Audi]

PRESS RELEASE:

AUDI TO INVEST BILLIONS IN NEW MODELS

INGOLSTADT, Germany - Audi is to invest considerable capital in expanding its model range significantly over the next few years. The company plans to invest a total of 11.8 billion euros between 2006 and 2011. This was decided by the AUDI AG Supervisory Board at its last meeting for the year 2006. This means that the amount to be invested by the car manufacturer from Ingolstadt will continue to remain at a very high level.

Around 8.4 billion euros (71 percent) of the total investment volume will be invested in new Audi vehicles alone. The Audi brand intends to extend its range of vehicle models from the existing 22 to a total of 40 by the year 2015. From 2007 onwards, investments will rise steadily to around two billion euros per year. Rupert Stadler, Board Member for Finance and future Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG states: "Investments in new models, in product innovations and core competences are the lifeblood of any company. We can only ensure our corporate success by offering a range of attractive products. This is therefore also an investment in the future of the company and is decisive in safeguarding our jobs."

Audi will be launching several new models or variants on the market next year. The Audi A5 Coupé, Audi TT Roadster and the Audi R8 mid-engined sports car will be among the models to expand the range from 2007 onwards.