Audi planning to launch A1 family in 2010

Audi A1 Metroproject Quattro Illustrated image

Audi’s CEO has reaffirmed his company’s plans to boost its lineup to 40 models by 2015 and expand its production facilities, including possibly building a plant in the U.S., as well as upgrading its current European sites. Audi has already confirmed it will invest €200 million in its Brussels plant to prepare it for the new A1 minicar due in 2010.

Speaking with Germany’s Focus, Rupert Stadler confirmed that Audi was investigating U.S. production and revealed that it could simply use extra capacity a new American Volkswagen plant to be announced within months.

The upcoming A1, meanwhile, will exclusively be built in Brussels and will be available in several different variations in addition to the core hatchback model. The other variants are tipped to include a cabrio, sportback and a possible SUV-crossover.

Audi was originally planning to build around 100,000 A1 minicars per year but with the new upgrades production can now be boosted closer to 120,000 units annually.

Heavily influenced by the Audi Metroproject concept car, the A1 is being built by Audi as a direct response to new premium mini-cars being brought out. The competitors on this stage include Mercedes’ Smart brand, the Volkswagen Up!, and even a new BMW minicar currently being developed.

[Source & Images Courtesy of Motor Authority]

Image Gallery : Audi A1 Metroproject Quattro