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Autoblog Minute: Nokia to sell Here mapping for $3.1B

In a three company partnership the German automakers BMW, Audi and Daimler are set to take ownership of Nokia's Here mapping technology. Autoblog's Eddie Sabatini reports on this edition of Autoblog Minute. Show full video transcript text [00:00:00] In a battle for Nokia's highly coveted mapping technology the auto industry claims victory over Silicon Valley. I'm Eddie Sabatini and this is your Autoblog Minute. In a three company partnership the German automakers BMW, Audi and Daimler are set to take ownership of Nokia's Here mapping technology. The Wall Street Journal writes that the automakers had concerns that the technology might fall under the [00:00:30]control of companies like Google, Uber, or Apple. The purchase, worth a reported 3.1 billion dollars, is still subject to antitrust evaluation before it's finalized; but this early news is already a big win for the German three. Ownership of Nokia's Here tech means that automakers won't lose control of the information systems that go into their cars. The deal, if approved, is expected to close in first quarter of 2016. For Autoblog, I'm Eddie Sabatini. [00:01:00] Autoblog Minute Logo Autoblog Minute is a short-form video news series reporting on all things automotive. Each segment offers a quick and clear picture of what's happening in the automotive industry from the perspective of Autoblog's expert editorial staff, auto executives, and industry professionals. Audi BMW Autoblog Minute Videos Original Video

Audi A3 Cabriolet leaked ahead of Frankfurt

Leaked images of the new Audi A3 Cabriolet have emerged ahead of the compact droptop's debut at next week's Frankfurt Motor Show. Audi has sold a convertible A3 in Europe since 2008, although that car has never made it to the US market. Still, with Audi already bringing an A3 and S3 sedan across the pond, there's hope for this small convertible to arrive here.
The looks of the A3 Cabrio aren't a huge departure from the A3 sedan, besides the obvious deletion of rear doors. We can't tell from the images shown, but considering Audi still hasn't brought a folding hardtop to market, we don't imagine it'll start with an entry level model like the A3. Expect a fast-folding canvas roof, much like the A5 Cabriolet.
From the leaked images, we can see TFSI and Quattro badges on this A3. It seems natural that the Cabrio will sport the same range of four-cylinder engines as the sedan - a 2.0-liter TDI, a 1.4-liter turbo and a 2.0-liter turbo. Of course, we'll have much more on the new A3 Cabrio when it makes its debut in Frankfurt.

Audi E-Tron Sportback Concept previews 2019 production model

Audi has revealed the E-Tron Sportback concept it has been teasing ahead of Auto Shanghai. The all-electric model, the automaker says, previews a production model slated for 2019. Audi will launch an electric SUV with a driving range of 311 miles in 2018. "Following close on its heels, in 2019," says Audi Chairman Rupert Stadler, "comes the production version of the Audi E-Tron Sportback – an emotional coupe version that is thrillingly identifiable as an electric car at the very first glance." The E-Tron Sportback is powered by three electric motors – one on the front axle, and two on the rear ­– providing a total 320 kW (429 horsepower), with a boost mode that ups that output to 370 kW (496 hp). It's capable of a 0-62 mile per hour sprint of 4.5 seconds. A liquid-cooled 95-kWh lithium-ion battery provides 311 miles of driving range (on the European cycle). The concept features Audi's singleframe grille, with an illuminated four-ring logo. The front of the car is shaped for optimal airflow, and the dip in the hood also gives it a uniquely sporty look. Its front fascia integrates lighting that not only illuminates the road, but can project animations or provide communicative signals to other drivers or pedestrians. Its 23-inch wheels are imposing, giving the car a muscular stance. Side mirrors are replaced by slender cameras, which improve airflow and provide a better view of the car's surroundings, helping to eliminate blind spots. By revealing the E-Tron Sportback concept in China, Audi is acknowledging the significance of the country's electric vehicle market. "There are already about 150,000 charging stations in the country, with another 100,000 due to come on stream by the end of 2017," notes Audi Board Member for Marketing and Sales, Dr. Dietmar Voggenreiter. "We are well equipped for this rapid growth. In the next five years we will be offering five E-Tron models in China, including purely battery-powered vehicles with ranges well in excess of 500 kilometers (310.7 miles) such as the Audi E-Tron Sportback." Related Video: Featured Gallery Audi E-Tron Sportback Concept View 34 Photos News Source: Audi Green Auto Shanghai Audi Green Automakers Technology Electric e-tron audi e-tron Auto Shanghai 2017