Audi shows first look at V12-powered SUV concept

Three-time Grammy winner Seal sang at today’s Audi press conference as the Q7 V12 TDI concept made its worldwide debut at the 2007 North American International Auto Show. The German automaker also showed a production Q7 fitted with a 3.0-liter diesel engine that uses Bluetec technology, which Audi shares with Mercedes-Benz.

“This car will be launched in 2008 and I can confirm that we will launch other models with this technology," said Rupert Stadler, chairman of Audi AG.

The clean Bluetec technology meets emission standards in all 50 states. Stadler predicted diesels could make up 10 or even 15 percent of the US market by 2015.

The V12 concept employs a road-going version of the V12 that powered Audi’s R10 TDI sports prototype to triumph in the LMP1 category of the American Le Mans Series.