Audi previews 2018 A8 with aluminium-intensive body teaser
Audi has released a video showing the 2018 A8’s bare structure, highlighting its aluminium-rich construction ahead of the flagship saloon’s full reveal.
Audi has released a video teaser of the 2018 A8, revealing the flagship’s bare body structure and confirming the saloon’s continued focus on lightweight engineering. The new A8’s skeleton, shown without exterior panels or interior trim, is dominated by aluminium, which makes up 58 percent of the body’s underpinnings according to Audi.
The use of aluminium is not new for Audi’s luxury saloon, but the brand has increased the proportion in the new generation. Alongside aluminium, the structure also incorporates steel, magnesium and carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) in key areas. Audi claims this multi-material approach delivers a 25 percent increase in body rigidity compared to the outgoing model.
The teaser video, released ahead of the full model debut, focuses on the exposed frame and highlights the technical complexity of the new A8’s construction. The company is positioning the new body as a foundation for improved refinement, safety and driving dynamics. The increased stiffness is expected to benefit both ride quality and handling, while the lighter structure should help offset the weight of new technology and comfort features.
Material mix and cabin space gains
Audi’s new A8 also promises more interior space. The company says rear passengers will have an extra 28mm of knee room and 14mm more headroom compared with its predecessor. The door cutouts have grown by 36mm, making entry and exit easier for occupants. These changes are enabled by the new body structure and longer wheelbase.
- 58% aluminium structure
- Steel, magnesium and CFRP used in specific areas
- 25% stiffer than previous A8
- 28mm more rear knee room
- 14mm more rear headroom
- 36mm longer door cutouts
Styling details remain under wraps, but Audi has indicated the new A8 will adopt design themes from the Prologue concept, setting the tone for future A7 and A6 models as well. The full reveal is expected to include further details on powertrains, technology and autonomous features.
The new A8 enters a segment where rivals such as the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class have already raised the bar on technology and refinement. Audi’s focus on advanced body construction is intended to keep its flagship competitive in the luxury saloon market.
