To Be Utilized in Iwate, Miyagi, and Fukushima Prefectures

The "Audi A1" is a compact car that excels in both performance and fuel efficiency, thanks to its adoption of an idling stop function and an energy regeneration system. It comes standard with a high-functionality car navigation system, and Audi Japan considers it "the optimal model to work alongside physicians in disaster-stricken areas for reconstruction."

Due to the significant loss of vehicles caused by the tsunami and other factors in the affected regions, Audi Japan decided to offer the "Audi A1" on a complimentary loan basis, hoping to contribute to the reconstruction of the Tohoku region and the restoration of local medical services.

The five "Audi A1" vehicles have been delivered to the Iwate, Miyagi, and Fukushima Prefectural Medical Associations through the Japan Medical Association. The Miyagi Prefectural Medical Association will use them for tasks such as making rounds to the temporary clinic of Shizu-Gawa Public Hospital in Minamisanriku Town, which suffered severe damage from the tsunami. The Fukushima Prefectural Medical Association will utilize them to ensure the continuation of local medical care.

Mr. Takashi Isurugi, Vice Chairman of the Iwate Prefectural Medical Association, who received an "Audi A1" from Mr. Sato, Branch Manager of Audi Iwate, expressed his gratitude, stating, "We plan to use them not only for physician transportation but also for the delivery of medicines. We intend to utilize them as a means to reach evacuation centers and medically underserved areas."

Audi Communication Center
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BRAND HISTORY
Audi's emblem, the "Four Rings," represents the four automotive manufacturers – Audi, DKW, Horch, and Wanderer – that were based in Saxony and led the German automotive industry at the beginning of the 20th century. However, facing the global economic crisis after World War I, these four companies, in a bid for survival, formed Auto Union in 1932. DKW specialized in motorcycles and small cars, Wanderer in mid-size cars, Audi in premium mid-size cars, and Horch in luxury cars.

Following the defeat in World War II, Saxony in former East Germany fell under Soviet occupation, leading to the dissolution of Auto Union. Anticipating this, the new Auto Union was established in Ingolstadt, Bavaria, in former West Germany. Unlike BMW and Mercedes-Benz, Auto Union faced a challenging start without existing factories, but gradually built its strength through the production of vehicles like the DKW delivery van.

Acquired by Volkswagen at the end of 1964, Auto Union soon introduced new models bearing the Audi name. In 1969, it merged with NSU, known for its development of the Wankel engine and based in Neckarsulm, becoming Audi NSU Auto Union. From 1985 onwards, it has continued as Audi to the present day. Audi's popularity is driven by its technology, including quattro, its dynamic performance backed by motorsport activities, elegant design, and high-quality finishes.