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The new Audi A5 impressed numerous media representatives and many potential customers with its qualities at its world premiere. Now it is proving its qualities in the south of France: the model variants of the Audi A5 unfold their full potential on the winding roads of the Côte d'Azur.

 

The scenery is straight out of a James Bond movie: a narrow road winds through the French Maritime Alps between rugged, overgrown mountains. It leads through tunnels carved into the rock and features bends of all kinds, alternating between tight turns and long sweepers. The hinterland of Nice, France, offers the perfect setting to get to know the character of the new Audi A5 models. The roads of the Côte d'Azur are particularly challenging for the chassis and drivetrain of the new mid-size models based on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) due to their profile.

Powerful and partially electrified gasoline and diesel engines with MHEV plus

The new A5 model series marks the launch of the first engines with the new MHEV plus technology from Audi – a 48-volt mild-hybrid system with powertrain generator, belt starter alternator and lithium iron phosphate battery. The MHEV plus system raises the performance and efficiency of the new Audi A5 TDI and Audi S51, 2 models to a new level. While the systems ensure dynamics on the mountain passes at Saint-Paule-de-Vence thanks to the additional electric power of up to 18 kW (24 hp), they also excel in the city traffic of Nice with purely electric driving during stop-and-go. When decelerating, the powertrain generator feeds energy back into the compact lithium iron phosphate battery with up to 25 kW of regenerative braking.

A perfect symbiosis: thanks to the high charging capacity, there is usually enough power in the battery for the next rapid acceleration.

The MHEV plus system also offers numerous advantages in urban traffic. On the one hand, the electric support for the combustion engine significantly reduces fuel consumption, especially when driving slowly. On the other hand, the stored energy helps to supply systems that have high power draws with electricity, even when the combustion engine is not in operation - at traffic lights, for example. At a sufficient state of charge, the electrically powered air conditioning compressor, for example, continues to operate and keeps the interior at a comfortable temperature.

More dynamic chassis and steering design

The decisive factor for a driving experience that is true to the Audi DNA is not only the drive, but also the chassis. When developing the new Audi A5 and S51, 2 models, the driving characteristics typical of the brand were right at the top of the specifications. These characteristics include effortless and precise driving. The new Audi A5 should impress with its dynamic and agile handling, but also with its comfort. To achieve this, Audi has revised the chassis with a number of detailed improvements. For example, the steering has been mounted directly to the body and also uses a significantly stiffer torsion bar. These measures reduce the elasticity between the steering wheel and the wheel. As a result, the driver receives precise feedback from the road conditions in every situation.

When cornering, the Audi A5 family benefits from a more rear bias in the anti-roll stabilization and a stiffer connection to the rear axle, allowing it to be steered with agility. The integrated brake control system with brake torque vectoring enables a dynamic build-up of brake pressure. It also supports dynamic cornering through targeted braking interventions at the wheels on the inside of the corner.

The new Audi A5 rolls off the production line with dynamically tuned steel suspension as standard. Alternatively, S sports suspension (standard on the Audi S51, 2 ) and S sports suspension with electronic damper control are also available. Both optional variants lower the body by 20 millimeters. The optional adaptive S sports suspension with damper control offers a significantly wider spread between the individual driving modes that can be selected via the Audi drive select dynamic handling system. The dynamic mode is noticeably firmer and more dynamically tuned, while the comfort mode offers more reserves for a relaxed drive.

New operating concept with two interior displays

On entering the car, the new displays immediately catch the eye: the 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit and the 14.5-inch Audi MMI panoramic display in a curved design. Optionally, the 10.9-inch MMI passenger display complements the Digital Stage. Outstanding ergonomics and simple, driver-centered operation were key elements in the development of this concept.

The curved panoramic display is designed so that it can be reached and operated effortlessly.

The new Audi A5 models feature the Audi assistant, a voice assistant that understands natural language and also learns independently. The driver activates the assistant via the voice command "Hey Audi" or via a button on the steering wheel. This can be used to execute various vehicle functions, start navigation, or request general knowledge. If the Audi assistant cannot answer the question, the AI-chatbot ChatGPT, provided via Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, is used, which accesses millions of data records and provides answers. This is seamless for drivers, as all functions are integrated into the Audi assistant.

The head-up display (HUD) in the new Audi A5 models was also newly developed. Thanks to the maximum utilization of the installation space and the adapted display technology, the visible image area is more than 85 percent larger than before and the display is even more precise. In addition, the HUD is now configurable and displays additional content on request. The HUD displays information such as speed, assistance systems, navigation instructions and media data in a clear way. The newly designed steering wheel controls allow users to scroll through lists and make direct selections without taking their eyes off the road. Calls can also be received and made via the HUD. Depending on the model and equipment, there are further display modes.

Audi offers the optional Bang & Olufsen Premium sound system with 3D sound and headrest speakers for all those who like to enjoy music in the car. This impresses with maximum acoustic precision and a natural sound. A total of 20 loudspeakers and two amplifiers with 810 watts of power provide a unique audio experience. Four loudspeakers are integrated into the front headrests of the optional sports seats. They enhance the personal surround sound experience and provide an immersive sound experience. They also create a much more balanced sound between the front and rear rows of seats. The acoustics when making phone calls also benefit from the headrest speakers, because phone calls cannot audibly penetrate to the outside of the car and the occupants in the front seats can conduct personal phone calls. Navigation prompts can also be transmitted directly to the driver's headrest upon request, so no one in the other seats will be disturbed.

New standards in digital light

In the class of the new A5 models, Audi is underlining its leading role in the chapters of lighting design and lighting technology. At the front, the Audi A5 family offers digital, optionally customizable daytime running lights with LED technology and, at the rear, second-generation digital OLED rear lights. With around 60 segments per digital OLED panel, they are increasingly developing into a display at the rear of the vehicle on the A5. This enables car-to-x communication and increases safety on the road. This includes, for example, the new communication light, which warns other road users during automated parking and in the event of an accident or hazard by means of a specific light symbol within the digital light signature.

The dynamic lighting effects when unlocking and leaving the vehicle reflect the aesthetics of movement as part of the Audi DNA. The same is true of the active digital light signature, which sets the light in the headlights and rear lights in motion in an unprecedented way. The headlights and rear lights are three-dimensionally drawn and offer optional digital light signatures, bringing the physical and digital worlds together.

Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

1. Audi S5 Sedan TFSI: Fuel consumption (combined): 7.8–7.4 l/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 178–169 g/km; CO2 class: G–F

2. Audi S5 Avant TFSI: Fuel consumption (combined): 8.0–7.6 l/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 182–171 g/km; CO2 classes: G–F

 

Flat hierarchies, clear responsibilities, faster decision-making processes: Audi is systematically restructuring its vehicle development in line with the principles of the matrix organization. With the internal presentation of the new collaboration model, Gernot Döllner and the project team have now laid the groundwork for the transformation of Product Line Management, Technical Development, and the associated interface partners at Audi. At the same time, the CEO announced the reorganization of other divisions.

 

The principle of Product Line Management has been established at Audi for many years and has been tried and tested in practice. The clear aim of the current matrix organization and Technical Development transformation projects was to focus development, decision-making, and management structures, thereby accelerating the overall development process at Audi. “Vorsprung durch Technik and strength in innovation are two fundamental pillars of our product promise. To continue living up to our claim, we must make Audi fit for the future again,” says Gernot Döllner, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG. Over the past six months, more than 200 experts from the pertaining areas have prepared various work packages relating to the transformation, analyzed processes and structures, and developed and optimized the new collaboration model.

“We have already achieved a lot since last fall as part of the Audi Agenda. The implementation of the matrix organization now marks the start of a decisive stage,” Gernot Döllner said during an information event for the more than 10,000 employees directly involved. “I would like to thank the entire project team, who, together with our more than 200 experts, resolutely addressed uncomfortable topics. We also need this openness and transparency for the reorganization of other divisions. After all, the past few months have shown that the automotive industry is facing major challenges. Vehicle development is therefore only the first step. We must and will make Audi more efficient, more competitive, and more resilient for the future.”

The new organizational development guidelines, which will now be applied across all divisions, form the basis for the reorganization of other areas. The target vision: flat hierarchies and broad organizational structures, a reduction of interfaces, streamlining of committees, and the dedicated linking of responsibility and decision-making to defined roles.

For the new vehicle development structure, this means a clear separation of strategy, management, and implementation. To achieve this, Audi is bundling portfolio and product strategy in an organizational unit that reports directly to Gernot Döllner as Chairman of the Board of Management. Entrepreneurial responsibility and management of vehicle development for the respective projects will be assumed by the operational product lines. In the future, this will also include direct access to all business-relevant topics and greater scope for decision-making. Technical Development is responsible for the actual development work and holds explicit responsibility for the vehicles’ features, systems, and functions. To this end, Technical Development will align itself with the respective interfaces to the vehicle projects as efficiently as possible. At the same time, it will have an increased ability to act concerning the specification, design, and integration of software and electrical/electronic platforms.

The launch of the new collaboration model is planned for the beginning of 2025.

 

Articles source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

The car is an unmistakable expression of one´s own personality – that is the philosophy of Audi exclusive. Since 1995, the brand with the four rings has been setting standards in the personalization of premium vehicles in keeping with this motto. An early example of this pioneering spirit was the Office packages for the first-generation Audi A8, which included a refrigerator, bar compartment, VHS player and monitor, folding table, and power curtains.

 

The ability to integrate high-demand design options directly into production has improved significantly in recent years. While the standard range for most Audi models boasts up to eleven colors, Audi exclusive allows customers to choose from an even broader spectrum of additional finishes, including a variety of special Audi exclusive finishes and standard colors from other Audi models. Different markets show different preferences among a range of nuances, from matte to gloss finishes in a wide range of colors.

The Audi exclusive portfolio covers three main areas: full personalization, predefined design and stitching packages, and editions. Customers can choose from a range of eight main finishes for the interior, complemented by three accent colors – Alaska Blue, Iguana Green, and Calendula Yellow. They are showcased perfectly in the Bicolor packages for the Audi e-tron GT, for example. “We want to allow everyone to design their Audi to be as individual as they are,” says Michael Binder from the Audi exclusive Product Marketing team. “Every one of our customers wants to express themselves with their Audi – without saying a word. With the color and material combinations and our many years of experience, we help customers express their personality and individual style through their car.”

Successes and developments in customer service

Since 2005, Audi exclusive has emphasized its presence with its studios at the Audi Forum in Neckarsulm and Ingolstadt. Customers there receive comprehensive advice and enjoy direct access to the wide range of design options on offer. With the knowledge of their product experts, these centers of excellence are open to customers from all over the world to help them realize their preferences and personal vision. The entire spectrum of customization options can be experienced live on site, and tailor-made solutions are created in personal conversations.

A significant innovation was the introduction in 2022 of the Audi exclusive customizer*. This visualization tool provides detailed 3D renderings of thousands of exterior and interior color combinations, giving customers a taste of the virtually limitless customization possibilities.

Car enthusiasts will find the right range of exclusive and limited design-oriented elements for luxury and mid-range models at Audi exclusive. Customers of Audi exclusive value autonomy, luxury, high-quality materials, precise manufacturing and sustainability. On average, one in five Audi R8s delivered by Audi featured a personalized interior by Audi exclusive, making the R8 the most frequently equipped car by Audi exclusive to date.

A current example of this special individuality is the Audi of Canadian racecar driver Jacques Villeneuve, whose characteristic helmet design is reflected in his Audi RS 6 Avant2. His car was given a pink body, blue brake calipers, yellow stitching, green JV logos embroidered on the seats, and red seat belts to create an unmistakable overall appearance.

The new Audi e-tron GT as a platform for creative innovations

With the introduction of the new S e-tron GT3, RS e-tron GT4, and RS e-tron GT performance5, Audi exclusive is setting benchmarks for the personalization of electric vehicles. The only Audi model to be built at Böllinger Höfe, the Audi e-tron GT family represents the Neckarsulm site, while the performance variant is the sporty flagship of the Audi portfolio. Audi is using the debut of the new electric Gran Turismo to introduce innovative, customized options from Audi exclusive. Through sophisticated elegance and advanced technology, the electric Gran Turismo is the perfect symbiosis of performance and high tech. With a wide range of finishes and materials, Audi exclusive allows customers to design their e-tron GT model to be one of a kind.

At market launch: e-tron GT models as an Audi exclusive edition

All three model variants of the new Audi e-tron GT are also available as a 299-unit limited Audi exclusive edition in North America, Europe, and other overseas markets. Since the creative minds at Audi find inspiration everywhere in their environment, it is no surprise that the Audi Design team turned to nature and its constant change to inspire the new worlds of color on offer. Like a kind of design sculpture, each new Audi e-tron GT is meant to always look exciting and fresh from every perspective. Color and trim designer Christopher Kroener was inspired by the subtle ways that nature changes temperature and light throughout the day. “Our choice of colors was not for a specific tone per se, but rather an emotional approach to the possibility of reproducing a fleeting moment of nature,” explains Kroener. Inspired by morning dew, Mint Gray evokes the fresh feeling of a morning walk, while Mora Violet provides a stylish contrast that reflects a strong, modern aesthetic.

Combined with creativity, an affinity for trends, and technical expertise, the new materials on offer help the new worlds of color make a stirring impact.

Exterior highlights in Arabica Gray and matte Neodymium Gold

One unmistakable feature of the series is the expressive exterior finish in Arabica Gray. Daytona Gray Pearl Effect, a very popular classic, inspired the color. Arabica Gray is versatile and premium quality. When viewed in the shade, the tone appears dark, but it takes on a golden hue when viewed in the light. This mix of brown, gold, and gray is unique. The luster of the finish is reminiscent of roasted coffee beans, and depending on the lighting, it can take on a unique depth and sophistication.

Based on the new 6 double-spoke RS design, the progressive wheel design of the Audi exclusive edition is available for the first time in black, matte Neodymium Gold, and burnished silver. This three-tone look echoes the bold hue of the Arabica Gray finish and elevates the appearance of the exterior to perfection. Metallic Neodymium underlines the car’s sporty elegance and exclusivity. “I took a new approach to the design of the different wheels, deliberately choosing not to use a dark aluminum and instead opting for a warmer variation that systematically reflects the gold particles in the Arabica Gray finish,” says wheel designer Andreas Valencia Pollex. “A vehicle’s wheels can harmoniously complement or radically change its overall look, just like your choice of shoes can complete your entire outfit.” During development, the wheel colors evolved from silver through black and bronze to their final iteration in bright gold. The desire for conspicuous elegance resulted in the increased use of matte Neodymium Gold. This extraordinary wheel color was first available for the RS 6 Avant performance6.

Interior highlights in Mint Gray and Mora Violet

The distribution of its colors gives the leather-free interior the appearance of a four-seater, but it legally seats five. The seats’ center panels, shoulder arches, and side bolsters come in Mint Gray to contrast with the Mora Violet areas. This is the first time that Audi exclusive has used these new colors. As a particular highlight, the decorative inlays on the instrument panel come in eucalyptus wood (in addition to carbon variations) trimmed in anthracite, which is used in this way for the first time. Eucalyptus is known for its characteristic look, created by the dense grain of light and dark waves. The distinctive Sport seats plus ensure maximum comfort. They are optionally available with ventilation and massage functions, either alone or in combination. The seats are upholstered in a combination of Cascade fabric, Dinamica microfiber, and Mono.pur 550 artificial leather with special waterfall stitching. Details such as door inserts in Mint Gray Dinamica microfiber with Audi exclusive badges, color-coordinated loudspeaker grilles, and switch covers, as well as color-coordinated seat belts, steering wheel, and floor mats round out the interior as an expressive statement.

Virtual environments

As part of the Audi exclusive edition, Audi is also making personalization possible in the digital world. Instead of an embossed number badge, the MMI indicates each limited model’s sequential number. Edition-specific MMI wallpaper with color-coordinated ambient lighting completes the digital experience. All previous MMI designs remain available along with these new features and can be freely selected by customers as before.

Individual customizations for the new Audi e-tron GT

In addition, Audi exclusive offers other packages that transform the interior into an expression of the customer’s personality through the use of contrasting colors. The two-tone Audi exclusive Bicolor design package is particularly noteworthy, combining fascinating charisma and differentiating colors. Interested customers can choose from four predefined interiors: Alaska Blue, Calendula Yellow, Iguana Green, or Crimson Red, each in combination with black. Contrasting stitching, exclusive leather accents on interior elements, and the air vent frames are color-coordinated with the selected package.

On the other hand, the Cognac Brown / Jet Gray design package sets a timeless accent characterized by an elegant command of style. The premium quality of the fine Cognac Brown Nappa leather, combined with subtle Jet Gray contrast stitching, gives the interior a sporty look with an understated touch. It stands as a stylish contrast to the vivid Bicolor packages.

For more intense color variations, the Audi exclusive stitching packages allow customers to choose distinctive stitching colors for a range of interior applications in combination with black leather to give their vehicle a sporty touch. What all the packages have in common is attention to detail, maximum precision, and the highest quality, all of which combine to give the interior a truly personal appearance.

In addition to these packages, which have been predefined by Audi design experts and will be expanded throughout the product’s lifecycle, another highlight is free personalization, which allows Audi exclusive customers to express their personal style on numerous interior components. These personalization offers have been in high demand since the launch of the Audi e-tron GT. The steering wheel is the most frequently personalized component, with 30% of all personalization requests, followed by the floor mats with 22%. The predefined design packages were used 16% of the time, a significant portion of the total Audi exclusive offering.

The creative minds at Audi will have no shortage of ideas going forward. Current developments in the field of digitalization point to a future where traditional design elements will increasingly blend with virtual immersion. This opens up new dimensions for customized experiences and increases the impact of the offerings. The Audi e-tron GT and Audi exclusive stand for this harmonious combination of progressive personalization and modern electric mobility.

*The configurator is available in German and English. Please select your preferred language directly within the configurator.

 

Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

 

1. Audi RS e-tron GT performance: Combined electric power consumption in kWh/100 km (62.1 mi): 20.8 –18.7; combined CO2 emissions in g/km (g/mi): 0; CO2 class: A

2. Audi RS6 Avant:Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 12.7–12.1 (18.5–19.4 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 289–276 (465.1–444.2 g/mi) CO2 class: G

3. Audi S e-tron GT: Combined electric power consumption in kWh/100 km (62.1 mi): 19.7–18.0; combined CO2 emissions in g/km (g/mi): 0 (0); CO2 Class: A

4. Audi RS e-tron GT: Combined electric power consumption in kWh/100 km (62.1 mi): 21.1–18.4; combined CO2 emissions in g/km (g/mi): 0 (0); CO2 Class: A

5. Audi RS e-tron GT performance: Combined electric power consumption in kWh/100 km (62.1 mi): 20.8–18.7; combined CO2 emissions in g/km (g/mi): 0 (0); CO2 Class: A

6. Audi RS 6 Avant 4.0 TFSI quattro performance: Fuel consumption (combined): 12.7–12.2 l/100 km; CO2 emissions (combined): 289–276 g/km; CO2 class: G

The renowned European consumer protection organization Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) has awarded the Audi Q6 e-tron the top rating of “five stars”. The vehicle was assessed in the categories “protection of adult occupants”, “child safety”, “protection of vulnerable road users”, and “assistance systems available as standard” and achieved excellent results in all test categories.

 

The testers from Euro NCAP rated the “protection of adult occupants” at 91 percent, which is almost full marks and offers optimal protection. For the first time in an Audi model, “post-crash functions” (including rescue data sheets for emergency services and e-call) were assessed, with the Audi Q6 e-tron scoring very well.

With a rating of 92 percent in the child safety category, the Audi Q6 e-tron model family is currently “Best in Class” among all vehicles tested so far in 2023 and 2024. Features that go beyond requirements and consumer protection also contribute to this. For example, the Q6 e-tron is one of the few models in the vehicle segment to have three “i-Size seats”, two in the rear and one in the front passenger seat. “i-Size” is a European safety standard for child seats that was introduced in 2013 and ensures unrestricted compatibility between child seat and vehicle. The front passenger seat in the Q6 e-tron is equipped with automatic deactivation of the front passenger airbag for rear-facing child seats; the car virtually “comprehends” when it must turn them off. The restraint systems have been further improved for use with child seats and offer optimal protection for children of all sizes.

Vehicle safety is a top priority at Audi, where 220 experts carry out more than 1,000 complex crash tests as well as around 20,000 virtual accident simulations every year and are constantly working on new safety functions.

The NCAP test results apply not only to the Audi Q6 SUV e-tron presented in March, but also to the Sportback variant, which will be launched on the market in 2025, and the respective S models. On October 14, Audi will present the Sportback version of the Q6 e-tron family to the world for the first time at the 2024 Paris Motor Show.

Article source: www.audi-mediacenter.com

With an exceptionally low Cd value of 0.21, the Audi A6 Sportback e-tron1 is the most aerodynamic Audi of all time and leads the entire VW Group in its segment in terms of aerodynamics. The A6 Avant e-tron2 also achieves an excellent Cd value of 0.24, placing it at the top of its body segment. Aerodynamics developers Andreas Lauterbach and Matteo Ghelfi and wheel designer Andreas Valencia Pollex explain how they achieved the record value with meticulous attention to detail.

 

Aerodynamics has always played a key role in Audi’s long history of success. As far back as 1967, the NSU Ro 80 had an aerodynamic, wedge-shaped body with a Cd value of 0.35 that changed automotive design forever. The third-generation Audi 100 (C3), introduced in the summer of 1982, boasted a Cd value of 0.30, which was exceptional for its time. Right on its heels, the third-generation Audi 80 (B3) continued this success story with a drag value of 0.29. Now, the Audi A6 e-tron12 is writing a new chapter, proving once again that Audi always combines form and function in a perfect symbiosis.

“Around 2,800 simulations and countless hours in the wind tunnel.”

“From the very start of the project, we placed a high value on efficiency and range and pursued very ambitious goals, regarding the A6 e-tron12. To be honest, in the beginning, we weren’t sure if we would be able to achieve the values we were aiming for. Getting to that last thousandth of a Cd value is the hardest part, but in the end, we exceeded our goals,” Lauterbach recalls.

The outstanding result was achieved primarily through “excellent teamwork between us (Aerodynamics experts) and our colleagues in Design. We all pulled together. From the beginning of the project, the Designers shared their drafts with us so that we could provide initial aerodynamic evaluations. In an iterative process – firstly using virtual simulations and later the physical model in the wind tunnel – we went on to optimize the basic vehicle body.

In particular, the basic proportions with the slim greenhouse and the sloping roofline contribute to good aerodynamics.”

Lauterbach and Ghelfi devoted considerable time to working on the details with their colleagues in the Design team. Ghelfi: “In all, we ran around 2,800 simulations on the car and spent countless hours in the wind tunnel and in meetings collaborating with surface experts and designers. For example, air curtains are used to improve the airflow around the front of the car. The outside edge of the air curtain intake protruded somewhat, which impeded the airflow. Millimeter by millimeter, we reached a compromise that ultimately worked out for both sides.” Lauterbach adds: “Another example is the rear track width. Our team would have liked it to be narrower. Together, we found a solution that brought out the best in terms of design, dimensions, and aerodynamics.” Ghelfi: “Regarding aerodynamics, the aero bezels were particularly important. The lateral breakaway edges on the rear of the A6 Avant e-tron2 made it possible to achieve a clearly defined flow stall. They are significantly larger than in other Audi cars. Working in the wind tunnel with our Design colleagues, we carefully pored over each side's respective arguments and strived to find the best solution. The result is that the aero bezels alone improve the range by 0.008, equivalent to eight kilometers. That’s a significant advantage to come from a single design detail.”

 

“Looking at the car overall, neither side had to make any major compromises. When all was said and done, and I called my colleague in Design to tell him that together we had achieved the Cd value of 0.21 for the A6 Sportback e-tron1, he could hardly believe it,” recounts Lauterbach proudly.

 

“Every detail fine-tuned to the last millimeter.”

Achieving these top Cd values for the A6 Sportback e-tron1 and Avant e-tron* demanded considerable attention to detail. The switchblade cool-air intake under the Singleframe alone, which helps the air to flow around this area with few losses, realized a Cd advantage of 0.012, equivalent to about 12 kilometers.Lauterbach: “The underfloor also plays a significant role in a car’s aerodynamic performance. On the A6 Sportback e-tron1, we added radii, optimized stiffening ribs, and breakaway edges at critical points. The rear diffuser is another element crucial to aerodynamics: Due to the smooth underfloor, this part is exposed to direct airflow, and pressure recovery has a positive effect on the Cd value.”

Ghelfi adds: “The underfloor is largely finished, and we’ve fine-tuned many of its parts, including specially adapted wheel spoilers and 3D bumpers on the front wheels, each of which has been individually optimized for the Sportback and Avant models using CFD analysis, which improves the Cd by 0.002 and 0.009 according to wind tunnel measurements. The large underfloor cover (the engine undershield) in the front of the car was optimized by adding a large radius on the air outlet; the rocker panel and the rear axle have been largely covered. These are just a few examples. We looked at practically each individual radius. We were able to achieve all these optimizations thanks to excellent teamwork with the project leaders, system team leaders, component managers, and designers.”

Lauterbach explains the overall concept this way: “The balance between the basic shape, rear height, rear contours, and underfloor design impact not only the car’s Cd value but also its lift. We achieved an ideal balance between lift and Cd by fine-tuning the underfloor as described.” Ghelfi adds: “The Avant has an additional diffuser spoiler that compensates for the fundamental difference in aerodynamics between the Sportback and Avant silhouettes, which means that the underfloor airflow differs for the two A6 e-tron derivatives12. This is another reason the Avant uses wider 3D bumpers to improve airflow around the front wheels.”

“Practically all of the wheels for the A6 e-tron12 are designed for aerodynamics”

The aero optimizations that some of the different-sized wheels feature round off the aerodynamics concept of the Audi A6 e-tron12. Rim designer Andreas Valencia Pollex: “Formerly, wheels basically only had to meet stability requirements. Today, we develop and design intelligent aero wheels that are as efficient as possible because the wheels, and even the tires, have a major impact on the range of an electric car.” The A6 e-tron* has special 19” aero wheels and two special 20” aero wheels.


Valencia Pollex continues: “To achieve perfect aerodynamics, the rims had to be somewhat flat so that the air that hits the front of the car is directed sideways around the body without much turbulence. We want the wind to flow along a wall rather than a collection of geometric shapes. So, we also developed a 21” wheel with aero blades made from special plastic for the A6 e-tron12.”

Lauterbach adds: “If you look at the whole range of wheels, the best and the worst wheels in terms of aerodynamics are only 0.015 Cd apart. That means that practically every wheel is designed for maximum aerodynamics.”

All information, images, and videos related to the new Audi A6 e-tron model series are available in the Audi MediaCenter.

Exclusive insights into the development of the outstanding aerodynamics of the Audi A6 e-tron* are also available at audi.com.

 

Article source: http://www.audiservicelondon.com/

 

1. Audi A6 Sportback e-tron performance: Combined electric power consumption in kWh/100 km (62.1 mi): 15.9-14.0; combined CO2 emissions in g/km (g/mi): 0 (0) CO2-class: A

2. Audi A6 Avant e-tron performance: Combined electric power consumption in kWh/100 km (62.1 mi): 17.0-14.8; combined CO2 emissions in g/km (g/mi): 0 (0) CO2-class: A