A Peek into the Future with Audi TT ultra quattro Concept
The renowned automaker, Audi, took its rightful place at Wörthersee 2013 as the "Home of Quattro", unveiling a new face for sportiness and weight reduction, namely the latest Audi TT ultra quattro concept. The event also showcased high-performance cars from previous years including their legendary Sport Quattro S1.
Fusing Lightweight and High Performance
This freshly minted concept car attracts attention with how it effortlessly marries minimal weight to maximum power. Sporting a slim frame that weighs in at just 1,111 kilograms or roughly 2,449 lbs., this coupe is propelled by a powerful 310 horsepower 2.0 TFSI engine boasting an impressive torque output of around 400 Nm between 1,900 and 5,000 rpm. This strong combination enables the concept vehicle to leap from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) within a bewitching span of 4.2 seconds. This much power rivaling that of a V8 is achieved through targeted modifications to crankcase, flywheel and bolts among other components ultimately saving about 25 kilograms or approximately 55 lbs.
Innovative Material Mix – Right Amount at the Right Place
Audi’s innovative approach towards materials shines through in the TT ultra quattro concept design which extensively uses carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP). Exterior elements like hood, roof, sides and trunk flaunt striking touches of CFRP while on the interior; door trims, center console and cross-bracing replacing rear seat bench follow suit. Magnesium floor components further trim down mass without compromising structural strength.
Shaving Off Excess - Lightweight Construction Mastery
To strike balance between lightness and performance, every component was meticulously optimized. From brake system featuring ceramic discs encased in aluminum calipers to titanium exhaust terminating in single tailpipe each facet screams lightweight efficiency. To top it off coil springs made out glass fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) cuts down suspension weight by 40%.
Moving Forward with Technological Advances
The concept car demonstrates tech possibilities brought about from intelligent mix of materials heralding significant weight savings for existing production models. Although it’s at an experimental phase currently, we could potentially see the use of light-weight construction technologies in upcoming small manufacturing batches.
In Lineup Igniting Fan Enthusiasm
Apart from TT ultra quattro Concept, several race cars and series-production models graced Audi's stand for fans' pleasure. Notable mention includes new Audi RS6 Avant showcasing increased performance owing to its reduced body weight facilitated by advanced lightweight construction strategy. Also on display was RS7 Sportback representing dynamic design cloaked over powerful twin-turbocharged V8 TFSI engine producing impressive output range.
An Ode to Automotive Lightness
The final word? The Audi TT ultra quattro Concept successfully encapsulates Audi's mission towards achieving efficient balance between exhilarating sporty drive experience and minimal vehicular weight. It serves as proof that reduction does not always imply compromise especially when it comes to driving comfort, safety standards and equipment specification. A testament indeed to how far automotive lightweight construction has evolved courtesy of concepts like these.
-Ed
2013 Audi TT ultra quattro Concept
