Audi teases 700HP hybrid Quattro Sport e-Tron Concept, A8 Matrix LED lighting
We're still a few weeks out from this year's Frankfurt Motor Show, but that hasn't stopped Audi from showing off concept sketches of its hybrid supercar, the Quattro Sport E-Tron. According to Autoblog, the car will debut at the show sporting a twin-turbo V8 is similar to what's found in the company's RS6, but it has an electric motor bolted on to help it hit 700HP and a 200MPH-plus top speed. Being that it's a hybrid, you can operate solely on battery power, but for only 21.7 miles at a time -- so, if you're looking for something with a little more range, we have a few practical suggestions.
Now for news on a model we might be able to actually afford, the A8. Prior to the 2015 model's unveiling, Audi is teasing a few features ahead of time. The A8's exterior lighting got a massive upgrade with the Matrix LED headlamp system, which can auto-dim or shut the highbeams down entirely thanks to a camera that senses other vehicles. Audi didn't neglect the tail lights, either. The turn signals on the luxury sedan now sports 24 LEDs that illuminate sequentially in the direction of the turn, from the inside out. For more info, you'll have to dive into the press release below or check out the model's coming out party on August 21st, right here.
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Highly effective: new turn signal light in the Audi A8
-Indicator LEDs light up sequentially in the turning direction
-Advanced turn signal light is a component of the Audi Matrix LED headlight
In the new Audi A8, the turn signal light consists of lighting elements that illuminate in a defined sequence; this makes it easier for others to perceive the driver's turning intentions, even under difficult conditions.
In the new Audi A8, the turn signal lights will now indicate the turning direction in an innovative way, which has the potential to significantly enhance traffic safety. That is because the lights provide a visual signal that can be clearly and quickly perceived, even at long distances and in poor visibility.
Each of the enhanced headlights contains18 light-emitting diodes arranged in a strip that is subdivided into seven blocks. Each tail light contains 24 LEDs in eight segments, which are used to dynamically indicate the turning direction. During flashing, the blocks are sequentially activated at 20 millisecond intervals, from the inside outwards in the desired turning direction. After 150 milliseconds, all segments are bright; for another 250 milliseconds they illuminate with full intensity. Afterwards, the turn signals go dark before repeating the lighting sequence.
Considering their capabilities, the Audi Matrix LED headlights can be regarded as a cutting-edge innovation. In each headlight, 25 light-emitting diodes generate a highly variable high-beam light. When the on-board camera detects other vehicles ahead, the Audi Matrix LED headlights mask the relevant sections of the high-beam by dimming or shutting off individual diodes. Very bright illumination is preserved in the remaining zones.
The Audi Matrix LED headlights also feature navigation-based cornering lights and, in cooperation with the night vision assistant, a marker light that warns the driver of pedestrians in the dark and which also alerts the pedestrians.
Audi will be presenting the upgraded A8 in September at the IAA International Motor Show in Frankfurt.
Audi is once again introducing a new automobile on the Internet: The online world premiere of the new Audi A8 will be broadcast exclusively on Audi Media TV (www.audimedia.tv) on
Wednesday, August 21, 2013, at 9.00 a.m. CEST.
Parallel to this, Audi Communications will provide comprehensive background information on Audi MediaServices.
One highlight of the new Audi A8, which will be presented at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt in roughly three weeks, are the new Audi Matrix LED headlights. With this innovative technology, Audi is opening a new chapter in automotive lighting.
Audi MediaTV will broadcast the world premiere of the new Audi A8 in English (www.audimedia.tv) and is offering the option of incorporating the live stream into other websites.
