Body

With a curb weight of 1,870 kilograms (4,122.64 lb), the Audi A8 hybrid is the lightest car in its class. It brings the full range of the Audi’s ultra lightweight technology expertise to the streets. The special technical components and equipment features for the hybrid drive contribute just 130 kilograms (286.60 lb) of additional weight.

Except for the B-pillars, where hot-shaped, ultra-high-strength steel is used, the luxury sedan’s ASF (Audi Space Frame) body is made entirely of aluminum. Weighing just 231 kilograms (509.27 lb), it is roughly 40 percent lighter than a comparable steel construction. The body of the A8 L hybrid, which is 13 centimeters (5.12 in) longer, weighs 241 kilogram (531.31 lb).

The ASF body of the A8 hybrid, assigns a specific task to each material and each component. The cast nodes connect the components, the extruded sections bridge spaces, the aluminum panels close off the spaces and lend rigidity to the framework. The material is used only where necessary and always in a tailored configuration.

The ASF body, for which Audi received the Euro Car Body Award, the world’s highest honor for innovative car body design, has other strengths as well. It is very rigid and offers good protection in the event of a collision. The Audi adaptive restraint system also stands guard in the cabin. Both body variants of the A8 hybrid have a drag coefficient of just 0.26, thanks in part to the extensive fine-tuning of the underbody and in the engine compartment.

The ASF design ensures comfortably low levels of vibrations and impressive quietness, with additional noise reduction provided by an acoustically insulated windshield. If desired, Audi can also provide noise-insulating side windows of dual-pane acoustic glass, with tinting optional. A panoramic glass sunroof is available for the long version.

The equipment and data specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.