AUDI | Ryutaro Matsui vs. Audi R8: The Power of Design and the Design of Power

Vol.1 Tatsuya Matsui vs. Audi R8

The Power of Design and the Design of Power

Creators active in various fields engage with the latest automobiles, presenting unprecedented creative theories on cars in "Creative Car Theories." For the first installment, we feature robot designer Tatsuya Matsui. Matsui, a designer from the supercar generation, still finds himself drawn to the "gravitational pull of design." Here, he confronts the latest supercar,AudiR8, and discusses the existence of supercars that are "irreplaceable for both manufacturers and car enthusiasts."

Concept and Text: Tatsuya TamuraPhotography: Yasuhiko Roppongi

A Gravitational Pull That Stops Boys in Their Tracks

The existence and future of supercars, as discussed by Matsui from the perspective of a robot designer. A certain encounter in Rome led him to contemplate the power of design.

(2008.05.26)

The engine is the most captivating feature of a supercar—or so it seems. Focusing on the design's subtle allure in the details, we examine the "Audi R8" up close.

(2008.06.02)

"Audi's proclaimed 'everyday usability' is a challenge directed at us." From a designer's viewpoint, this is the final discussion on the nature of contemporary sports cars.

(2008.06.09)

The "R8," Audi's first mid-engine sports car. A photo gallery exploring its intricate details.

(2008.06.16)

Tatsuya Matsui, Representative Director, Flower Robotics Inc.
Born in Tokyo in 1969. After graduating from Nihon University College of Art, he joined Kenzō Tange Associates. He subsequently worked for IBM, Lotus France, and as a researcher for the Japan Science and Technology Agency before establishing Flower Robotics in 2001. He has unveiled numerous robots, including "PINO," which was exhibited at MoMA.
http://www.flower-robotics.com/

Audi R8
Named after the racing car "R8" developed for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, this is Audi's top-tier supercar, which evolved from the concept car "Le Mans quattro" announced in 2003. It incorporates advanced technologies such as the unique "ASF" frame, weighing 210kg for the body alone, and the 6-speed "R tronic" transmission. The V8 DOHC engine produces 420 horsepower. Priced at 16.7 million yen.
http://www.audi.co.jp/audi/jp/jp2/new_cars/r8.html