The new A8 L is far ahead of the competition, including where Internet connectivity is concerned. An optional UMTS module provides a connection to special services from Google and to the World Wide Web. The top version turns the large sedan into a rolling WLAN hotspot – another major innovation from the brand with the four rings.

A8 L owners can already use the GPRS module to access the specialized services from Google to bring news and weather information from the Internet to the large sedan. The search function for points of interest can find terms such as “restaurant” or “cigar shop” when planning a route. Drivers can plan their routes down to the last detail on their computers at home, upload them to a section of the Internet site www.audi.de and from there download them to the navigation system of the A8 L on starting the trip.

The UMTS module of the online Bluetooth car phone is another optional interface to Google. The A8 L uses the fast connection to download three-dimensional satellite and aerial images from Google Earth and display them in a bird’s eye view on the monitor; the computer fills in the streets. In addition to the images, a lot of additional information about the destinations is also delivered to the car.

With the top version of the system, the A8 L provides a full-fledged Internet connection. It is the first vehicle worldwide to be available from the factory with a WLAN hotspot on board. Passengers in the front and rear can simultaneously connect up to eight terminal devices – from laptops to Apple iPads to netbooks – to the Internet through the car’s integrated WLAN module and via UMTS.

Communication with the Internet uses the roof-mounted antenna of the Audi A8 to delivery maximum connection stability and excellent reception. WPA2 encryption provides the necessary security for the transfer of data.

The WLAN hotspot is remarkably simple to use. The driver places a data-capable SIM card in the online Bluetooth car phone to activate the very fast Internet connection, which supports speeds up to 7.2 Mbit/s. Alternatively, an Internet connection can be established via Bluetooth by using a compatible mobile phone with a SIM Access Profile. The existing mobile phone contract is sufficient in most cases; no additional fees or separate contracts are required for the new data links.

The equipment and data specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.