Audi’s next-generation A8 will feature an adaptive camera-linked suspension system, said to offer exceptional ride and handling composure.
This system is just one of the myriad of new features expected to debut on Audi’s most advanced model ever, scheduled to be unveiled tomorrow, July 11th at the Audi Summit in Barcelona.
The fully active suspension uses advanced camera technology linked to individual electric motors for each wheel, thus adapting to changes in the road surface and providing a fine balance between maximum comfort and dynamism.
Powering the new active suspension is the car’s 48-volt main electrical system, while additional components include gears, a rotary tube with internal titanium torsion bar, plus a lever which exerts up to 1,100 Nm (811.3 lb-ft) on the suspension via a coupling rod.
With the help of the front camera, the suspension is able to react precisely at the right time, thus completely eliminating any vibrations and jolts, according to the German automaker. This process is said to take just a few milliseconds, with the camera generating road surface information 18 times per second.
The active suspension also minimizes rolling movements when cornering, as well as pitching movements when braking or accelerating, while the combination of rear axle steering ensures a high level of stability and handling. Audi also claim that the turning circle of the new A8 is smaller than that of an A4.
As for passive safety, with the help of Audi’s pre-sense 360 safety system, the active suspension will actually raise the body of the car (on the exposed side) by 80 mm (3.5 in) if an imminent side impact is detected at more than 15 mph (24 km/h). This way, the collision is directed to the strongest areas of the car, like the side sills and floor structure, reducing the load on the occupants by up to 50%.
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