Geneva Motor Show: Audi A8 Hybrid

The first hybrid-powered version of Audi's flagship A8 was part of the brand's many launches on the first day of the Geneva motorshow, but is one of the more impressive vehicles on the German manufacturer's stand.

It is set to go on sale at the end of 2011 and has made its debut at Geneva in as close to production form as is possible without it being able to drive off the stand.

The large saloon is powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine, and an electric motor that combine to create a total power output of 242bhp – only 5bhp less than the current entry-level diesel's 247bhp. Audi reckons the result is the equivalent of one of their V6 engines, in terms of power and performance.