Audi 2012: Technology Developments and Future Plans

This year, Audi has geared up to make a strong showing that will get all fans, especially new and used Audi owners, buzzing. Not only are there new and exciting models showing up at the local Audi dealer but also, there are big, company-wide plans for expansion.

Audi Connect Makes Big Waves

Receiving the first-ever "Connected Car of the Year" award by Connected World magazine, Audi's A8 luxury sedan comes equipped with the Audi connect infotainment system (delivering music, video and Wi-Fi without distracting the driver) and cars with this Audi connect system are the only cars in the world that currently have broadband connection.

Some exciting features of this system include Google Earth maps in its onboard navigation system, real-time information from SiriusXM Traffic, Google Local search integration for travel destination information, and a rolling Wi-Fi hotspot that allows access up to eight wireless devices simultaneously. This Audi system is now available in other models besides the A8, for all of you future used Audi drivers to keep in mind. For more information about this innovative system, visit a local Audi dealer.

Traffic Jam Assistant Technology Unveiled

An enthralling new development that Audi is coming up with for your used Audi is the Traffic Jam Assistant. The idea behind this technology is, instead of constantly crawling and braking in extreme rush hour traffic, you can sit back and let your used Audi do the driving for you.

This high-tech system, which Audi showcased at the International Consumer Electronics Show in January, prompting the New York Times to proclaim, "Audi Mounts Technology Blitz at C.E.S.", is based on Audi's adaptive cruise control which helps steer the car and accelerate and brake autonomously in slow traffic up to 37 miles per hour. What is also fascinating about the Traffic Jam Assistant is that is uses a sophisticated system of radar sensors, ultrasonic sensors and wide-angle video to monitor not only the car ahead, but the vehicles in front of it as well.

Though Audi's Traffic Jam Assistant is not yet available through an Audi dealer, it's a development that they are working on to be available on the A8 in the next few years.

Audi Invests in Manpower and Equipment

Audi is completely invested in staying on top of its game and remaining on the leading edge with these technological developments and more. The auto manufacturer brought on 3,500 new employees last year, breaking their own hiring record. This coming year, Audi plans to bring on another 1,200 auto specialists to the team. There is also a push to invest more money in expanding the infrastructure of the company with new property, equipment and plant acquisitions between now and 2016. There is also a strong emphasis on investing in new products and technologies, such as electric and hybrid drive.

With all of these developments on the rise, it's a great time to be a new or used Audi owner, or even a future Audi driver, so keep an eye out for Audi's new developments in the upcoming years.