Clean Green Cars: REPORT: Audi A1 production to start in October after Frankfurt debut

REPORT: Audi A1 production to start in October after Frankfurt debut

Audi Metroproject quattro concept - click above for high-res image gallery

A report out of Belgium is saying that Audi will begin series production of its new A1 mini-car in October following a public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in October. Since 2007, we’ve seen two concept versions of the A1 in three- and five-door variants. The three-door is expected to launch first. Both cars will be built at the Brussels, Belgium factory that Audi took over from parent Volkswagen last year. The factory will be shut down in August for a five week period to re-tool for the new car. The Brussels plant currently builds the VW Polo and Audi A3. When production of the A1 starts, Polo production will end at the Belgian plant. In typical Volkswagen/Audi fashion, the A1 will have an array of gas and diesel engines. Given that the A1 is something of a competitor to the MINI, an S1 may join the fray as well to challenge the John Cooper Works edition. Unfortunately, at this time it looks like the U.S. will again be left out of the fun. Surprise.

Gallery: Audi Metroproject quattro concept