A symbol of progressive engineering
It's one of the most multi-faceted stories ever told in the history of the automobile. The Audi emblem with its four rings identifies one of Germany's oldest-established automobile manufacturers. It symbolizes the amalgamation in 1932 of four previously independent motor-vehicle manufacturers: Audi, DKW, Horch and Wanderer. These companies form the roots of what is today AUDI AG.
Pioneering Audi visionary
The story of Audi began in 1899 August Horch founded Horch & Cie. in Cologne. It was there that he helped build his first car. After differences of opinion with the board, August Horch left the company and formed a second car company. Because his surname was already in use and was protected by trademark, he chose its Latin translation for the new company. So "horch!"-- or "hark"-- became "audi!". It was a brilliant idea that came from the son of one of August Horch's business partners.
Thanks to his victorious involvement in the Austrian Alpine Runs, August Horch succeeded in making Audi internationally known in just a few years. After the First World War, August Horch withdrew from the company and moved to Berlin to work as an independent automotive expert.
A legend, condensed
Take a trip through the storied past of Audi and learn about everything from the production of the first left hand drive vehicle to the invention of legendary Audi quattro ® all-wheel drive. Soon, you'll understand why Audi is one of the most hallowed names in any industry.
Triumphs in technology
Throughout the long history of Audi, each car has been inspired by a core philosophy of beautiful design, intelligent, state-of-the-art technology, top-of-the-line performance in every detail without a single compromise in quality. These values continue to drive Audi into the future.
Separating ourselves from the crowd
"Vorsprung durch Technik" or, "Progress through Technology" is our company ethos and is the core belief that drives the development of every Audi vehicle. It inspires the innovative solutions, revolutionary engineering and progressive design that have become synonymous with the Audi name. And it reminds us to challenge ourselves, rewrite the rules from time to time and always fuel our pioneering spirit. The spirit that sets us apart on the racetrack and the open road.