German luxury car maker Audi and its parent company Volkswagen have officially announced the acquisition of Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A. but have stopped short of confirming the reported purchase price of $1.1 Billion. Ducati is known worldwide as a leading brand in motorcycle manufacture, with outstanding expertise in engine development and lightweight construction while Audi points to certain technologies developed by Ducati – particularly their control systems, combustion chamber process and competence in lightweight construction – as particular assets that “offer great potential for AUDI AG and the Volkswagen Group.” The acquisition lines Audi up to be the world’s leading luxury auto manufacturer as well as premium motorcycle maker, overtaking BMW who currently own that spot. (via Autoblog)