INGOLSTADT, GERMANY - The highlight of Audi's 100th anniversary celebration on July 16 here will be the world premiere of a new Audi model, the company said in a statement, according to www.edmunds.com.

In a statement, Audi AG said that the vehicle will be unveiled "in front of around 2,500 invited guests.

"We are proud of the tradition of the Audi brand and our company's history of success," said Rupert Stadler, chairman of the Audi AG board of management. "You have to be aware of your roots if you want to shape the future with new ideas and innovations."

The anniversary celebration will run for four days and feature an appearance by German Chancellor Angela Merkel, the company said. A concert featuring the band Die Fantastischen Vier and a 60-piece symphony orchestra will be part of the festivities. On July 18, Audi Tradition will celebrate the centennial at Ingolstadt's Donau Ring. Audi said "nearly every racecar in the history of the brand will hit the road for demo runs." They include the Audi R15 TDI racing prototype.