On the UK’s shortest day Audi adds to the Christmas illuminations with advanced lighting that is now available for more models than ever before

• Intelligent Audi Matrix LED headlights now available on many of the latest models: TT, A4, A6, A7 Sportback and Q7
• S line versions of the A4, A6, A7, Q7 and TT fitted with all-LED headlights and LED rear lights as standard
• Xenon plus headlights with LED DRLs as standard for the rest of the S line range
• Laser lighting can also be specified on the all-new R8 and R8 V10 plus
• Dynamic sweeping turn signals also standard front and rear in combination with Matrix LED headlights
• Future lighting development work focusing on Matrix laser lights, laser rear fog light and OLED ‘Swarm’ technology

As darkness rapidly falls today, the shortest day of the year (sunrise in London 08.04, sunset 15.54), the UK will not only be carpeted with Christmas illuminations but also the largest ever range of Audi models equipped with pioneering lighting technology. Audi has long been a frontrunner in the field of automotive lighting and, true to form, the Vorsprung durch Technik brand is now ensuring that its most sophisticated developments are accessible on more of the UK range than ever before.

Low energy, high intensity LEDs are now available across the board for all Audi models, whether it is in the form of daytime running lights, all-weather LED headlights or Matrix LED units, the majority of which are standard depending on the specification chosen. Innovative laser lighting is also already starting to make its presence felt, initially in the form of spotlights for the new Audi R8 super sports car.

The most sophisticated headlamp which is already rapidly proliferating in the range is the Audi Matrix LED unit, which provides maximum illumination of the road and maintains a constant high beam without dazzling other road users. The adaptive unit is notable for operating fully electronically with no mechanical parts – instead, individual light-emitting diodes in each unit can be individually lit or dimmed in an instant, effectively diverting their beam around leading and oncoming traffic.

The Audi Matrix LED headlights also assume the function of cornering lights, shifting the focal point of the light through the bend by selectively brightening or dimming. They do this shortly before the wheel is turned based on predictive route data provided by the MMI navigation plus system.

Matrix LED for all-new A4 and beyond

Fitted as standard to all A8 Sport, Edition 21 and W12 models, as well as to the 520 PS S8 and 605 PS S8 plus, the technology has also now extended to six of the 11 Audi model lines currently available to order, including the all-new Audi A4, A6, A7 Sportback, Q7 SUV and TT. All models fitted with Matrix technology also feature front and rear dynamic indicators, which ‘sweep’ sequentially in the direction of intended travel in the space of just 150 milliseconds to alert surrounding drivers to the intention to turn significantly more effectively.

Advanced all-LED headlamp units can also be complemented in some Audi models by laser beams. The all-new R8 V10 and V10 plus super sports cars are available with laser spots which activate at 37mph to double the range of the high-beam light. Each of their headlight units incorporates a module with four powerful laser diodes that are just 300 micrometres in diameter. They generate a blue laser beam with a wavelength of 450 nanometres. A phosphorus converter converts it into white light with a colour temperature of 5,500 Kelvin.

Matrix laser – the next step

The next step will be Matrix laser headlights, which break the light beam down into tiny pixels to illuminate the road in high resolution and with precise control. The DMD (digital micromirror device) technology that Audi uses in the Matrix laser headlights is also used in many video projectors.

At its core is a matrix of hundreds of thousands of micromirrors, whose edges measure just a few hundredths of a millimetre in length. With the help of electrostatic fields, each individual micromirror can be tilted up to 5,000 times per second. The light is projected onto the road as a function of the position of the individual mirrors, optimally adapting the illumination of the road to the ambient conditions for the driver.

DMD technologies make it possible to create a nearly infinite number of light patterns. The car can thus generate the ideal light for any driving situation. The technical possibilities are virtually unlimited. Targeted light helps the driver to stay in lane through roadworks, for example. When turning or moving through junctions, it can show the driver the way, even projecting arrows or similar graphics onto the road, if desired. The high-resolution light can highlight important traffic signs or very precisely prevent the blinding of other road users with glare.

The Matrix laser headlights open up a huge degree of added safety for the driver and others nearby, and have significant implications for the piloted driving of the future. In urban traffic, for instance, they can lay down a pattern of light and dark zones directly in front of the car. This can act as a projected walkway to indicate to pedestrians that they can cross the street safely.

The future is OLED

The brand with the four rings is also making great strides in further developing lighting beyond the traditional ‘sealed unit’ headlamps of today, with a focus on greater use of precise laser lighting and OLED integration, allowing for organic, freely moving light sources and the introduction of ‘swarm’ technology.

Testing to replace conventional bulbs in rear lights with OLED units is already well underway, and Audi is working hard to increase the brightness and suitability for this purpose.

OLED coatings applied to the car body’s sheet metal are being experimented with, and the interactive and dynamic potential of ‘swarm’ lighting will also have a place on the roads in future.

The swarm works by creating a continuous light surface from tiny flickering lights that can illustrate the movement of a car, for example, when a right turn is made, they flow to the right; when the car is braked they flow more dynamically and diffusely. The faster the car is going, the faster they move. The driver in the car behind can thus always tell at a glance what the driver ahead is doing.

Laser rear fog light

The safety function of the rear fog light can be improved by using laser light, which is currently in its predevelopment stages. Generated by a laser diode at the rear of the car, it presents the trailing driver with a bright, clear signal, thus keeping them at a safe distance. If visibility is good, the beam from the laser rear fog light, which is fan-shaped and inclined slightly downwards, is seen as a red line on the road. The width of this line depends on the distance to the trailing vehicle: At a distance of 30 metres, the line is about as wide as the car. This clear signal is an unmistakable warning to the driver behind to maintain a safe following distance.

In fog or spray, the laser beam strikes the water droplets in the air and makes them visible; the line is then seen as a triangle. The laser rear fog light looks like a large warning triangle.

Back in the present day, every Audi ordered in S line specification is now equipped with LED daytime running lighting technology as standard. Xenon plus lights are twinned with LED daytime running lights for a broad light spread and exemplary daytime recognition on A1, A3, A5 and Q5 S line models, while the-all new A4, A6, A7 Sportback, Q7 and TT S line versions all graduate to all-LED headlamp units as standard, delivering levels of illumination comparable to daylight in addition to minimal energy consumption, a long service life and noticeably better visibility.

Article source: www.audi.co.uk

Recently introduced Sport trim enriches the already broad appeal of the Audi A6 allroad quattro

• Sport specification can now be ordered on all new A6 allroad quattro models
• Standard specification additions include new 19-inch alloy wheels, all-LED headlights, dynamic rear LED turn signals, electrically adjustable front sport seats and privacy glass
• Range of three V6 TDI powerplants available with outputs of 218 PS, 272 PS or 320PS
• Sport pricing starts from £49,455 OTR – available to order now

The sure-footed Audi A6 allroad, the quattro all-wheel-driven and air suspended Avant that is already notable as one of the most effective insulators against difficult winter driving conditions, is now available with an enhanced specification that makes it an even more protective and pampering means of weathering the storms.

Recently introduced Sport versions of the A6 allroad can be ordered now in time for delivery during the fast-approaching winter months, when the adhesive qualities of the quattro system and the raised ride height afforded by the standard four-level air suspension come into their own. To these, and the many other equipment items included in the standard model, Sport specification adds full LED headlights that replace the bi-xenon units of ‘standard’ A6 allroad models to further enhance visibility in the darkest conditions. A high beam assist function is also added as standard to automatically dip the beam when oncoming traffic is approaching. At the rear in Sport models, dynamic LED turn signals that operate in a sweeping motion increase safety and awareness for other road users.

New 10-spoke design 19-inch alloy wheels with a matt titanium finish, privacy glass and heated and folding mirrors round out the exterior enhancements, while inside sports seats in upgraded Valcona leather with full electric adjustment are complemented by luxurious Alcantara door inserts. These add to an already extensive equipment list that includes features such as SD card navigation, the Audi Music Interface, powered tailgate operation, the Audi parking system plus and deluxe four-zone air conditioning.

Rugged ability in any weather

Adaptive air suspension is fitted to every A6 allroad, endowing it with accomplished all-terrain ability but also a cossetting ride quality that absorbs even the harshest of road imperfections.

A dynamic or comfort mode can be selected using the Audi drive select system, and the suspension automatically adjusts to reduce aerodynamic drag at speeds above 74 mph by lowering the body by 15 mm. When more ground clearance is required, a lift mode can be engaged at the push of a button, raising ride height by 10 mm.

When negotiating more substantial off-road trails, the driver can easily monitor the impressive 20° slope angle and 17° ramp angle capability using the tilt angle display, which can be called up via the central MMI screen. Hill hold assist and hill descent control, which maintains a constant vehicle speed between five and 18 mph, are also standard.

Assistance and safety enhancements

Matrix LED headlights can be fitted as an option to dramatically increase the overall range and spread of illumination. A total of 64 separate projectors maintain a constant high beam function without dazzling other road users by electronically dimming segments when oncoming traffic or light sources are detected. The advanced units adapt to shift the light position in corners, while information from the navigation system automatically adjusts the full beam when entering or leaving built-up areas.

A head-up display can furnish the driver with essential information directly in the line of vision to reduce distraction, including speed and route navigation data. Also available is the innovative night vision assistant, which is capable of alerting the driver to people and large animals well in advance by using thermal imaging.

The more practical side of the allroad quattro can be further exploited by fitting a mechanically operated tow bar and a convenience pack, offering further storage and practicality solutions such as hard-wearing floor mats, a through-load facility and a luggage fixing kit.

V6 TDI engine range

A choice of three EU6-compliant six-cylinder TDI engines power the new A6 allroad quattro in standard and Sport specification. The 218 PS and 272 PS engines are mated to a seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission, while the 320 PS and 650Nm output of the BiTDI is fed to the wheels via an eight-speed tiptronic transmission.

The latter ensures brisk performance of only 5.5 seconds to 62 mph and a 155 mph limited top speed. Up to 43.5 mpg is achievable, linked to CO2 output of 172 g/km. Combined fuel efficiency increases to a possible 50.4 mpg for the 218 PS and 51.4 mpg for the 272 PS, while CO2 drops to 149 and 145 g/km respectively.

Article source: www.audi.co.uk

This high-performance diesel sports car amazed visitors at the 2013 Frankfurt Motorshow. 

Blending stunning looks with a powerful 5 litre V10 TDI engine, the Audi nanuk quattro concept produces 544PS and 737lb of torque and a top speed of 189mph. 

Developed in collaboration with Italdesign Giugiaro the crossover concept combines the dynamics of a mid-engine sports car with the versatility of a sporty recreational vehicle.

Article source: www.audi.co.uk

The Association of Scottish Motoring Writers has voted the Audi TT its Coupé of the Year for 2015

• Audi TT is named Coupé of the Year in the Scottish Car of the Year Awards
• Pricing starts from £27,150 OTR for Sport and £29,700 OTR for S line specification
• Full engine range also available to order for the TT Roadster, fitted with a fully automatic and acoustic fabric roof as standard
• Recently introduced 1.8 TFSI with 180PS now also available for both variants
• Flagship 310PS TTS quattro can be specified as a Coupé or Roadster

Lauded for its enduring appeal as an engaging yet practical everyday sportscar, the Audi TT has received even more top honours by winning the coveted Coupé category in the annual Scottish Car of the Year Awards (SCOTY) held in Edinburgh on Friday.

Highly praised by the esteemed panel of judges who comprise the Association of Scottish Motoring Writers, President Alisdair Suttie summed up the category win by commenting: "The Audi TT embodies all that is best about coupés. Sporting, sleek and great to drive, yet practical for everyday use and a spread of engines that goes from fast and frugal to just plain fast! A huge hit with the judges, the TT also offers all-wheel drive to be the perfect coupé for Scotland."

All models are equipped with an extensive standard specification featuring highlights such as Audi drive select, a retractable rear spoiler and the Audi Virtual Cockpit, which is an all-digital instrument display that delivers pin-sharp resolution across a 12.3-inch LCD screen. The full potential of this system can be unlocked by choosing the optional Technology Package with MMI Navigation Plus, allowing the 3D mapping facility to fill almost the entire screen in vivid colour when desired. The same package also includes the Audi connect suite of services, such as Google Earthe, Twitter, online news, the cheapest fuel prices and other useful information like plane and train times.

Reserved as standard for the S line specification are all-weather LED headlights and tail lights as well as the no-cost option of 10mm lower suspension, plus various S line specific styling enhancements inside and out.

Both Sport and S line models can be enhanced with a raft of other options like Audi magnetic ride, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, Audi Matrix LED headlights and deluxe automatic air conditioning with digital displays integrated into the air vents.

1.8 TFSI now available

Further contributing to the reputation of the TT as a highly rewarding driver’s car is a new 1.8 TFSI engine that produces 180PS and 250Nm of torque between 1,250 – 5,000 rpm. Mated exclusively to a six-speed manual transmission, the 1.8 TFSI is the lightest TT in the range and weighs a mere 1,210 kg. Accelerating from standstill to 62 mph takes only 6.9 seconds, with a maximum top speed of 149 mph.

The lightest TT is also one of the most efficient; up to 47.1 mpg is achievable with a CO2 figure of 138g/km, beaten only by the 184 PS 2.0 TDI ultra which peaks at 62.8 mpg combined and has a CO2 output of 116g/km.

Pricing starts from £27,150 OTR for the TT 1.8 TFSI Coupé Sport, rising to £42,495 OTR for the TTS Roadster, which features the most powerful engine in the range – a 310 PS 2.0 TFSI capable of sprinting to 62 mph in just 4.6 seconds. Naturally, the TTS comes equipped with quattro all-wheel drive for immense traction in all conditions, as do 230 PS 2.0 TFSI S tronic versions of the Coupé and Roadster. All TT models are ready to order in the UK now.

Article source: www.audi.co.uk