A Compact EV Capable of Level 4 Autonomous Driving

The Audi "AI:ME" has compact dimensions: 4.30 meters long, 1.90 meters wide, and 1.52 meters high. Its exterior is characterized by a front face with an inverted hexagonal Singleframe grille, a signature of Audi's electric vehicles, large, opposing side doors, and 23-inch wheels at the four corners. The interior offers a spacious cabin thanks to an electric drive unit on the rear axle, a long 2.77-meter wheelbase, short overhangs, and a structure without a central tunnel.

The interior is designed for two occupants with separate front seats, but it can be adapted for up to four people by utilizing the extra space for storage or the rear bench seat, offering versatile functionality.



Designed for urban driving, the Audi AI:ME features "Level 4" autopilot, the second-highest level on a five-stage scale of driving automation. When operating on highways or in specially equipped urban areas, drivers can completely hand over control to the system.

However, the driver must resume responsibility for driving when the vehicle leaves these designated conditions. Therefore, unlike the Audi "Aicon" unveiled in 2017, which featured "Level 5" fully autonomous driving capabilities, the AI:ME is equipped with a conventional steering wheel and pedals.

Furthermore, in the future, as vehicles autonomously navigate designated traffic areas alongside other road users, the fundamental way we use cars will change, making the time spent inside more valuable.



The car is envisioned as a "third living space" alongside home and work, with various innovations in the interior. These include magnetic holders for tableware to enjoy meals while driving, a footrest beneath the dashboard for when pedals are not needed, eye-tracking and voice control via a 3D multi-function OLED monitor spanning the width of the car below the windshield for communication between the car and occupants, and touchpads integrated into the door rails.

Additionally, occupants can browse the internet, watch movies, or play competitive games using the standard VR goggles, which display content from the infotainment system. An active noise control function is also included to isolate the occupants from surrounding traffic noise for an enhanced audio experience.

Communicating Lights and Long-Distance Architecture

Since drivers will engage in activities other than driving in the AI:ME, new lighting technologies have been implemented. LED elements are positioned high on the fenders for better visibility to pedestrians and cyclists. Micro-matrix projectors provide easily recognizable signals, projecting a "safe to cross" sign onto the road or walls for pedestrians, or indicating the vehicle's presence for safe passenger boarding and alighting.

The system can also interpret and amplify signals from other vehicles. For instance, if a car ahead activates its hazard lights, the AI:ME can detect this and amplify the signal through its projectors and LED units to alert all road users to the potential danger.



The permanent magnet synchronous motor on the rear axle has a capacity of 65 kW and produces an output of 125 kW (170 hp). Designed for urban driving, the vehicle prioritizes efficient operation within the 20-70 km/h range and extended driving time without charging, rather than extreme acceleration, top speed, or cornering performance. Upon reaching its destination, the AI:ME can autonomously return to its designated parking or charging station, eliminating the need for the owner to search for one.

Audi's vision concept models have followed a progression: the Aicon in 2017, conceptualized as a business jet for long-distance travel; the PB18 in 2018, designed as a sports car for circuit driving; and now the AI:ME, debuting as the ideal model for megacity use. With the anticipated unveiling of a fourth vision concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2019, Audi's AI quartet will be complete.