Latest Lightweight Technology Introduced in the New A6 and A8

"Audi has a major strategy regarding technology, with four keywords. First, Audi ultra is a collective term for lightweight technology in automobiles. While other companies are experimenting with carbon fiber, Audi ultra considers the use of various materials mixed and applied appropriately."


"As a crucial strategy, we are committed to making every new model lighter than its predecessor. The new A6 and the new A8 are proof of this. We will achieve the same for other models in their next generation changes."

Full Utilization of Lightweight Technology = The Message of "Audi ultra"

Naturally, the use of high-tensile steel is also expanding. This allows for weight reduction due to its high strength. The full utilization of such lightweight technologies is the message of Audi ultra.

The Ultimate Form of E-Mobility: "R8 e-tron"

"Next, regarding e-tron, we have brought the Q5 and A6 hybrids this time. In addition, we offer full hybrid vehicles in a total of three classes, including the A8. These are not only highly efficient but also do not compromise driving pleasure."

Previously, Audi indicated that e-tron would be rolled out from the high-end segment. The roadmap involved high-end models like the R8 e-tron leading the way, with their technology cascading down. However, the strategy appears to have been subtly revised, with not only pure battery EVs but also range-extended EVs and plug-in hybrids being developed under the e-tron umbrella.

So, why wasn't the R8 e-tron equipped with an engine? It's because the R8 e-tron represents the pursuit of the ultimate possibilities of e-mobility.

"Audi connect": Reducing Environmental Impact Through Vehicle-to-Vehicle Communication

"This is in the sense that, similar to an airplane's autopilot, the machine handles certain aspects, but the ultimate responsibility always lies with the human. In our headquarters in Ingolstadt, a 'pilot project' has been underway for several years. For example, vehicles in that fleet communicate with traffic lights to guide them through without stopping, which also contributes to CO2 reduction. We believe there is still much that can be done, especially in urban areas, to enhance the comfort of using automobiles."

Aiming for Zero CO2 Emissions in Urban Areas and CO2 Neutrality on Long Distances

Looking at these points, it becomes clear that all of Audi's new technologies are geared towards reducing environmental impact and achieving sustainable mobility. Audi ultra offers benefits in both improved performance and fuel efficiency. Audi e-tron is a technology that balances power and environmental performance. And Audi connect greatly contributes to enhanced comfort and, again, to reducing environmental impact.

"In the future, we aim for zero CO2 emissions in urban areas and CO2 neutrality on long distances. This means offsetting the emissions produced through other means."

However, cars don't sell on environmental performance alone; that's the reality. Audi is, of course, well aware of this. Therefore, Mr. Dick cited design as another crucial theme alongside the three pillars of technology.

Audi Design: Evoking Emotion

And not just the ability to move from point A to point B, but to do so with comfort and enjoyment. Our slogan is 'Design follows Function,' where function takes precedence, but we aim to continue delivering products that appeal to emotions.

Audi is currently enjoying great success in the Japanese market. While its appeal in terms of appearance, including design, has become quite well-known, the technological aspects behind it may still be insufficiently communicated. The three pillars, now expanded to four, and not stopping there – these seem to be the keywords supporting Audi's progress.