Hot in the Lot
NEIRAD enilno edition
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Audi has come a long way in recent years making it one of Europe’s finest sports car manufacturers. Audi is one of Germany’s oldest motor companies and is easily recognized by its emblem, the four silver rings. Each ring stands for the amalgamation of four car companies into present day: Audi AG; Audi, DKW, Horch and Wanderer. Originally built for racing, Audi has switched its style up and produced cars that appeal to sports car fanatics, car collectors, and apparently EMT’s. Our June “Hot in the Lot” features senior Allison Hyde who has turned her brand new A4 into an EMS response car.
Last October, Allison received a pleasant surprise. Her father came home and said, “hey Allison, there is a present outside for you.” At first thought, Allison thought it was a box, but to her surprise, it was a brand new, silver 2007 Audi A4! This gift was no box: it was every Audi fan’s dream. This automotive present was a huge upgrade from driving her mom's old 1993 960 Volvo station wagon.
Although it only has a 2.0 litre engine, the A4 has 200 horsepower, an acceleration rate of 0 to 62 mph in 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 160 mph. Not bad. Even the torque is brilliant: 207 lb-ft @ 1,800 – 5,000 rpm.
“I really like this car. It handles so well and is pretty light. All the kids like it too, they always ask me for rides,” Allison said. The A4 is fast and reliable -- everything one would expect from a high-end German car manufacturer. Definitely a good choice for an EMT, after all, they need to be at the scene as soon as possible.
Allison’s A4 is not your typical Audi. The Audi already came with awesome features such as a sound system, MMI display, and multitronic drive option. The coolest feature, however, is something that Mr. Hyde and Allison had custom made for her ride. The Hydes had EMS LED lights installed, so if she gets a call from Post 53, Allison simply flips a switch and the A4 converts into the ultimate response car.
The green lights in the front grill flash simultaneously while the lights in the back window flash non-stop. When people see these lights, they immediately pull over. (Even if Allison is not on a call) She told me one time she was on the way to Garden Catering and forgot to turn off the lights. Everyone let her by and what would normally be a 10-minute drive turned out to only take three minutes.
“I was wondering why everyone was so friendly that day pulling over, but then I realized why,” Allison said. This dedicated Postie is very responsible and that was only one slip up; she doesn’t do it all the time, at least I don’t think she does. Not only does Allison’s Audi come with EMS lights, but it is also equipped with snow tires for that extra grip in winter.
The next call of duty for Allison and her sweet A4 is Boston College where she will be attending school in the fall. This car is ready for service anytime, anywhere.
This is our last "Hot in the Lot" of the school year. From the Neirad automotive desk we wish all DHS drivers a summer of happy road tripping!
