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HERNDON, Va. — Audi of America recently reached 2 million vehicles sold in the U.S.

This milestone came in late June with the sale of an Audi A3 TDI — the reigning 2010 Green Car of the Year. The vehicle went to a customer at Keyes Audi in Van Nuys, Calif.

Brand executives noted this transaction involved a first-time Audi buyer. They believe the sale illustrates how American luxury vehicle buyers are moving Audi to the top of their shopping lists. Audi contends the reasons are due to its roster of progressive models offering leading-edge technology and exceptional efficiency.

"The story of Audi in the U.S. is really a story written by the hundreds of thousands of people who have invited our brand into their lives," stated Johan de Nysschen, president of Audi of America.

"We're grateful for those opportunities," de Nysschen added.

Audi's journey to 2 million units sold includes the success of the Coupe quattro, the 5000, the V8, the A4, the TT, the R8, the Q5 crossover and the Q7 TDI clean diesel.

The manufacturer indicated that it began offering its vehicles to U.S. consumers 40 years ago with the Super 90 and the 100. Now, Audi is setting its sights on reaching the next million-unit milestone in fewer years.

Executives anticipate reaching the next sales mark in a shorter time because Audi has doubled its model count in the U.S. market since 2000 and tripled the number of variants it offers.

"U.S. consumer awareness and consideration survey scores are at record levels and because of previously announced plans by Audi AG to offer a broader lineup of vehicles to meet changing consumer demands," company officials explained.

"Audi concept cars suggest there are indeed more progressive innovations and designs to come from Audi, including the e-tron electromobility studies," they added. 

The automaker is looking to celebrate 2 million sales as well as gather consumer feedback about its lineup through its Facebook page. The discussion can be found at facebook.com/audi under "Driver's Spotlight."

In an effort to drive consumer interaction, officials said, "Facebook fans are encouraged to submit renderings depicting their visions of the future."