After previously indicating a hybrid version of its flagship Q7 SUV is on the way to markets outside of the U.S., Audi has apparently scrapped the project altogether.
As first reported by German business publication Der Spiegel, an Audi spokesman indicated Ingolstadt's bleak sales prediction was reason enough for the automaker to halt all project developments. Much like its March decision to keep the hybrid out of the hands of U.S. buyers, Audi has most likely factored in the increasing value of the euro versus the dollar, as well as the escalating cost of raw materials.
Interestingly, according to Autobild in Germany, Audi pulled the plug on the gas miser Q7 as a result of the incomplete lithium ion powertrain development. Either the reason, hope for the car in what is still considered a very niche market is slim to none.
There was no word on the upcoming smaller Q5 and its possibility of employing a hybrid powertrain, but don't expect the baby Q7 in hybrid form to hit our shores either. Sources at Autobild stated the next generation lithium ion system will find its way into the Q5 further into its production run that begins next year. For those stateside buyers wanting a bit more mpg from the Q7 and Q5, upcoming new diesel powertrains in 2009 and 2010, respectively, should do the trick just as well.