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With the electric-only powertrain of
the four-seat A2 concept, Audi is offering another glimpse into the
future of electric mobility at the 64th International Motor Show (IAA)
in Frankfurt.
The Audi A2 concept is just 3.80 metres
long, 1.69 metres wide and 1.49 metres high, yet it manages to make a
powerful impression on the street. Its clean appearance concentrates on
the essentials; all details are subtle but shaped for visual impact. The
dark glass roof of the white-painted show car switches to transparency
at the touch of a button.
With its headlights, Audi is presenting
the next phase in LED technology, known as matrix beam. A package of
LEDs and microreflectors generate a high-resolution and non-glaring
high-beam light. Delicate daytime running light fibres frame the highly
efficient LED low-beam light module. Intelligent tail lights adapt their
illumination to the visibility conditions. The rear fog light, produced
by laser diodes, is seen as a beam of light in fog and projects a red
triangle onto the road as a warning.
The dynamic light runs below the edge
of the window from the front to the rear of the A2 concept – a band of
light that contains a multitude of innovative, dynamic light functions.
Integrated approach sensors detect the driver and unlock the doors via
gesture control. While driving, the dynamic light functions as a
continuous side marker light. If the car’s turn indicator is activated,
light impulses run throughout the entire band of light.
In addition, a red bar of light flows
forward from the tail lights when braking and demonstrates the strength
of the brakes intuitively for other road users.
The dynamic light is also located in
the cockpit area of the show car, structured in two separate arches.
Like the entire interior, the dash panel has a light and clean look and
intuitive controls. The driver manages many important features via
touch-control areas on the inside of the steering wheel. Two additional
control surfaces fold up at the driver’s right when starting the
vehicle. An open profile serves as the steering column; a seven-inch
display and two secondary displays are located at its end.
The Audi A2 concept has a flat interior
floorboard. The centre console is attached to the driver’s seat; the
rear console extends forward between the two rear seats. The four
individual seats add lightness, and there is storage space under the
fold-up seat cushions. There is room between the rear seats for a city
bicycle with its front wheel removed. The load area has two levels; a
frame with functional nets creates the upper level.
The colours and materials in the
interior support the impression of lightness and functionality. The
large areas from the door top shoulders to the floor bear a new and
innovative covering material made of polyurethane with a neoprene
surface feel; a ribbed material made from recycled polyester covers the
central floor area. The seat shells are made with a plastic blow
moulding technique. Aluminium trim elements create highlights in the
cockpit. |
