New Drivers

“We’re now entering broader segments and expect demand to grow as prices become more affordable,” said Martin Birkmann, BMW’s manager for powertrain requirements. “We expect the new hybrids to not only appeal to our current drivers but also draw new customers to the brand.”

Audi will enter the hybrid segment this year with a version of the Q5 sport-utility vehicle that sells for 53,700 euros ($74,300), 9,800 euros more than a similarly equipped conventional version. For the price, the buyer gets aboutugg boots for men ugg boots for men ugg boots for men 7 miles per gallon in better fuel economy from a vehicle that accelerates to 100 kilometers (62 miles) per hour in 7.1 seconds, a half a second faster than the gasoline-only version.

Audi will add hybrid versions of theugg boots for men ugg boots for men ugg boots for men A6 and A8 sedans in the first half of 2012. The VW unit will then gear up for a line of plug-in hybrids, which have rechargeable batteries and greater electric-only range. The Ingolstadt, ugg boots for men ugg boots for men ugg boots for menGermany-based carmaker plans plug-in versions of the A3 compact, A4 sedan and Q7 SUV starting in 2014.