Audi
A1 Metroproject Quattro
The
Audi A1 Metroproject Quattro concept car was one of the vehicles displayed at
the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show. The diminutive A1 was designed to go head-to-head
with the highly successful BMW MINI.
The
styling of the A1 Metroproject Quattro isn't as aggressive as most of Audi's
products, although the chunky lines, high beltline, wheel hugging arches, and
large central grille do fit in with the rest of Audi's lineup. However the rear
panel and taillights have a shape more fitting of a BMW than an Audi.
Inside
the A1 Metroproject Quattro concept Audi have given the car a simple yet
stylish appearance, which looks nearly production ready. The only far-out
design feature of the A1 Metroproject Quattro is the "Audi Mobile Device".
This is a removable, Audi-branded, phone, MP3 player and navigation system with
a touch sensitive screen. The device is also capable of controlling some of the
A1's functions including locking/unlocking the doors, turning the climate
control on so you can heat up or cool down the interior from the comfort of
your house before you set out, and it even acts as a surveillance system.
Should your Audi A1 go missing, cameras inside the car will send the Audi
Mobile Device pictures of the intruder, while at the same time a tracking
beacon is activated helping police to locate the car.
Power
for the A1 Metroproject Quattro comes from a hybrid drivetrain incorporating a
150 horsepower 1.4 liter TSFI engine up front, and a 41 horsepower electric
motor at the rear. The lithium-ion batteries supplying the electrical power can
be topped up from any mains socket, and give the concept a 60 mile all-electric
range.
To
further reduce the A1's effect on the environment Audi have fitted the concept
with an engine stop/start system to cut emissions when sat in traffic. While
regenerative braking helps top up the electricity supply during braking.
