Vehicle weight is a fine example. Anyone who has prepared a race car knows that an immense amount of weight can be saved by removing such elements as the air conditioning system, the power window motors and sound insulation. But who would want to drive a car that didn't possess these conveniences?
Accident protection is another example. One of the main reasons why vehicles are heavier than ever is that they are built more strongly and are better able to withstand impact forces from an accident. This weight penalty can be offset by the use of super-strong, lightweight materials - such as aluminum, used by Audi for the A8, TT and R8 - but then the cost of the vehicle skyrockets.
In essence, people want it all: A safe vehicle with all the conveniences that also manages to be very efficient and environmentally-friendly. It's a major task.
The fruit of their labours
In response to the challenge, Audi has been working away on many different fronts. For example, we learned of a more efficient air conditioning system that's found in the new Audi A5, a system that saves approximately 0.2 litres of fuel per 100 km over the unit found in the A6.
Audi also introduced their "e-models" - a line of more efficient diesel engine-powered cars that employ weight-saving measures, aerodynamic tweaks and transmission modifications to achieve improved fuel economy and lower emissions.
In driving one of the e-models, an Audi A3 with a 1.9-litre TDI engine, I came away impressed with its performance - it seemed equal to any of the other small diesel engines that are so popular in Europe. The A3 was spirited and fun to drive, running out of breath along the test track only as speeds went beyond 160 km/h.
Another car that seemed ready and willing to tackle everyday driving duties was an Audi A5 with a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder, converted to run on compressed natural gas (CNG). CNG produces approximately 20% less carbon dioxide emissions than gasoline and is significantly cheaper in some markets, notably Germany.
An innovative packaging job sees this A5 fitted with four different CNG tanks, in addition to a 14-litre back-up gas tank. Under power, the turbo produces a not-that-inspiring 161 hp, but once up to speed the Audi easily powered along the top lane of the high-banked oval with ease. Another impressive effort.
Accident protection is another example. One of the main reasons why vehicles are heavier than ever is that they are built more strongly and are better able to withstand impact forces from an accident. This weight penalty can be offset by the use of super-strong, lightweight materials - such as aluminum, used by Audi for the A8, TT and R8 - but then the cost of the vehicle skyrockets.
In essence, people want it all: A safe vehicle with all the conveniences that also manages to be very efficient and environmentally-friendly. It's a major task.
 |
The fruit of their labours
In response to the challenge, Audi has been working away on many different fronts. For example, we learned of a more efficient air conditioning system that's found in the new Audi A5, a system that saves approximately 0.2 litres of fuel per 100 km over the unit found in the A6.
Audi also introduced their "e-models" - a line of more efficient diesel engine-powered cars that employ weight-saving measures, aerodynamic tweaks and transmission modifications to achieve improved fuel economy and lower emissions.
In driving one of the e-models, an Audi A3 with a 1.9-litre TDI engine, I came away impressed with its performance - it seemed equal to any of the other small diesel engines that are so popular in Europe. The A3 was spirited and fun to drive, running out of breath along the test track only as speeds went beyond 160 km/h.
Another car that seemed ready and willing to tackle everyday driving duties was an Audi A5 with a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder, converted to run on compressed natural gas (CNG). CNG produces approximately 20% less carbon dioxide emissions than gasoline and is significantly cheaper in some markets, notably Germany.
An innovative packaging job sees this A5 fitted with four different CNG tanks, in addition to a 14-litre back-up gas tank. Under power, the turbo produces a not-that-inspiring 161 hp, but once up to speed the Audi easily powered along the top lane of the high-banked oval with ease. Another impressive effort.
 |