In addition to launching a host of all-new models at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Audi is also using this large platform to showcase a number of futuristic concepts.
The most interesting one is the Audi AI:TRAIL quattro. This four-seater combines the capacity for automated driving with superb off-road capabilities. The glass surrounding the cabin extends all the way to ground level, providing unrivalled all-round visibility. The ample battery capacity ensures sufficient range even away from dense networks of charging stations.
Thanks to a mixture of high-tech steel, aluminium and carbon fibre, it weighs just 1750kg despite its high-capacity battery.
The windscreen wraps around the front of the vehicle like the cockpit of a helicopter. Passengers have an unobstructed view of the road or trail both in front and to the sides. Nor is it just the front and sides that are transparent and covered in glass. Almost the entire roof, from the top of the windscreen to the rear spoiler, allows a clear view of the sky and the landscape.
It also comes as standard with Level 4 autonomy.
Level 4 is the second-highest level on a standardised international scale for increasing automation. Although systems in this category do not require any assistance on the part of the driver, their function is limited to a specific area—such as highways or areas of inner cities equipped with suitable infrastructure. In these places, the driver can completely transfer the task of driving to the system. The driver needs to resume the task only when the car leaves the area defined for fully automated driving.
In terms of drive hardware, it’s equipped with four electric motors installed near the wheels, each of which propels one wheel directly. As is typical for Audi, the off-roader is therefore a true quattro. The maximum system output is 320kW and the maximum torque is 1000Nm.