6 Most Advanced Features on the New Audi A8
Audi is known as a technological innovator, and the A8 is their flagship model, so you can expect the most cutting edge features in this luxury sedan. Here are a sampling of what advanced you can look forward to in the latest A8.
A Technological Statement
Flagship luxury sedans like the Mercedes S class have always been the pioneers in automotive technology. Features such as air bags and pre-collision braking systems were first seen in top of the line luxury cars, before other automakers began to integrate them. In recent years however, the Mercedes has no longer been the forefront of innovation. Tesla, BMW, and especially Audi have made great strides in automotive technology with the features packed into their flagship sedans. The new for 2018 Audi A8 is no different, serving as a showcase of whats to come from Audi moving forward.
Traffic Jam Assist
Traffic Jam Assist in the Audi A8 is my personal favorite feature. Using a single camera, five radars, and a laser scanner, the A8 will be able to drive itself in heavy traffic, on divided highways, at speeds up to 37 miles per hour. The A8 wont be able to change lanes on its own, so it will require the driver to steer around road hazards if needed, but in stop and go traffic it will cruise in lanes with no input from you. Regardless, the Traffic Jam Assist feature will be brilliant for heavy traffic areas such as Los Angeles.
Active Suspension
The Audi A8 features a smart, fully active suspension, that is slightly reminiscent of the prototype Bose suspension shown in the Lexus LS 400 from late 1990's. The optional suspension in the Audi A8 has the ability to lift a wheel in anticipation of a bump, or lift the body relative to the suspension if needed. An electric motor in each corner will reduce the force over bumps in the cabin significantly, and improve handling by counteracting body roll before it happens. On the safety side, if the radar detects an incoming side impact, the suspension motors will lift the the car 3 inches to better direct the forces into the structure, and better protect the occupants.
Artificial Intelligence
It's simply amazing that Audi is already able to bring Artificial Intelligence technology to cars. Audi's AI system will be able to learn a drivers routes and habits, and will be able to make suggestions and recommendations. The AI system includes a remote parking pilot and garage pilot feature to allow the A8 to park without a driver in the car, all through a smartphone app.
Wireless Charging (on the E-Tron)
While not available initially, Audi is planning an E-Tron plug-in hybrid version of its flagship luxury sedan. The E-tron will feature 449 total horsepower, just 11 horsepower shy of the 460 horsepower V8 version, and will be able to go 31.1 miles on electricity only. But the coolest part will be its inductive wireless charging system. When you park with the front axle of the car over the wireless charging station, which resembles a small mat, the charger automatically raises slightly and then transfers power inductively, without touching, to charge the car.
Rear-Wheel Steering
Rear wheel steering is nothing new, its been a feature in some cars for quite some time now, however, it's only recently becoming widely used in cars. Audi uses rear-wheel steering to improve stability and and agility in the A8, as well as low speed maneuverability. Being such a large and heavy car, this feature improves emergency handling, and while making it drive like a much smaller car.
For help with service of your car, check out the how to section of AudiWorld.com