Audi Duo

Hybridization from 1989

One might think that hybridization is a modern technology, appearing with the Prius or today's rechargeable SUVs. But the history of the automobile, when one takes the time to look at it closely, reminds us that true innovations are often much older than their mass adoption. And above all, that they were born from a different mindset.

Audi, a discreet pioneer

This is the case with the Audi Duo, a plug-in hybrid vehicle... designed as early as 1989. At a time when ecological concerns were not yet at the heart of standards or marketing, Audi presented a prototype that combined a 2.3L 5-cylinder gasoline engine producing 134 hp (on the front wheels) with a 12 hp Siemens electric motor mounted at the rear and powered by nickel-cadmium batteries. All of this was based on a simple 100 Avant C3 chassis.

A serious technical solution

No mild hybridization, no assisted regeneration. No, back then, the driver had to shift the gearbox to neutral, press an "E" button to activate electric mode, and could then drive up to 24 miles (about 38 km) without consuming a drop of fuel. The electric motor could propel the car alone up to 50 km/h, or work in tandem with the combustion engine in slippery conditions. There was even a solar roof under consideration to recharge the battery. We are far from a gimmick.

This first prototype did not have a commercial follow-up. But Audi continued. In 1991, a second all-wheel-drive Duo was created. In 1997, the Ingolstadt-based manufacturer even launched a small limited series: the Audi A4 Avant Duo, this time equipped with a 90 hp 1.9 TDI engine and a 29 hp electric motor powered by a lead-gel battery. Rechargeable from the mains, with energy recovery during braking, this A4 could reach 80 km/h in electric mode and 170 km/h with the combustion engine. It was audacious, functional, and credible.

Too ahead of its time

And yet... a commercial failure. Too expensive (around €30,000 at the time), too ahead of its time. Fewer than 100 units were sold. But no matter: Audi had dared.

Today, this kind of boldness no longer exists – or hardly. Manufacturers rationalize, amortize, standardize. We no longer see projects like the Golf V10, the Audi R8 TDI, or this diesel/electric hybrid Audi Duo. Innovation still exists, but it is framed, oriented, compliant with specifications. People no longer try things "just to see," much less to dream.

What we take away at WOT

At WOT, we can only regret this era when brands took the risk of surprising, even without immediate profitability. The Audi Duo changed nothing in the short term. But it bears witness to a state of mind that, today, seems to have deserted the drawing boards. And yet, it is often these isolated attempts that shape true revolutions.