Driver assistance systems

Audi provides a range of assistance systems which sets standards in the mid-size class. In addition to the new and standard driver information system with break recommendation, there are four optional technologies to choose from. Customers can order three of them in a single package: adaptive cruise control, Audi active lane assist and the parking system plus.

The new driver information system with break recommendation has the potential to considerably enhance road safety; after all, fatigue causes about one quarter of all motor-vehicle accidents. This system constantly monitors the driver’s steering movements as well as the depressing of buttons and pedals. It thus generates and stores a profile unique to the driver. If the system’s control unit detects that the driver is deviating from their profile – the steering wheel is hardly being used, for instance – then visual and audible alarms are triggered. In operation at speeds above 65 km/h (40.39 mph), the system can be switched off – like all Audi assistance systems – at any time.

New functions: adaptive cruise control
Audi also offers adaptive cruise control (ACC), which now has additional key features. This radar-assisted cruise-control system detects vehicles ahead and continuously maintains an appropriate following distance by accelerating and braking at speeds between 30 km/h (18.64 mph) and 200 km/h (124.27 mph). Within certain limitations, it automatically decelerates the car. The driver can switch between four settings to specify the extent to which the system should be comfortable or sporty; following distance can be set to one of four settings.

ACC also features the integrated Audi braking guard. If the threat of a rear-end collision becomes imminent, this system warns the driver. The type of warning will correspond to the degree of danger. A gong-like chime and a red signal lamp on the driver information system’s screen constitute the first level of warning. At the same time, the brake system is preemptively refilled and the brake pads are positioned close to the brake discs so that braking can be practically instantaneous.

If the driver does not react, then the second warning level causes the system to briefly brake the vehicle – an attention-grabbing jolt for the driver. If they do not sufficiently depress the brake pedal, then the hydraulic brake assist will boost the braking force as merited by a given situation. If the driver altogether fails to react, then the system partially brakes on its own to decelerate the A5 by approximately 3 m/s2.

In an emergency at speeds below 30 km/h (18.64 mph), the Audi A5 will perform a full brake application – regardless of whether the vehicle ahead is stationary or in motion. This innovative function can prevent some accidents entirely; in all instances, it will considerably lower collision speeds.

The optional Audi side assist activates at speeds above 30 km/h (18.64 mph). Rear-mounted radar sensors monitor roadway activity behind the A5. If a vehicle to the rear enters the blind spot or rapidly approaches the A5, then a yellow LED indicator in the outside mirror’s housing will light up. If the driver nevertheless activates their turn signal, then the indicator will brighten and flash rapidly – it is practically impossible to overlook!

A new optional system in the A5 family is Audi active lane assist, which activates at a speed of 65 km/h (40.39 mph). A video camera in the interior mirror identifies the lane markings on the road surface. If the A5 approaches a lane marking without the turn signal having been activated, the system gently intervenes in the electromechanical steering to coax the driver to remain in their lane.

Drivers use the MMI to specify how quickly this assistance system should intervene as well as whether the steering wheel should correspondingly vibrate. If a driver selects the “late” setting, then the system will intervene just before the vehicle can cross a detected lane marking. This configuration is especially beneficial if the driver inadvertently veers out of their current lane owing to, for instance, inattentiveness. If a driver selects the “early” setting, then Audi active lane assist will gently and continuously correct steering to ensure the vehicle remains in the middle of the lane. This latest generation of lane-departure warning technology lastingly eases the burden on drivers and thus enhances driving comfort.

There are various options to simplify parking for Audi drivers – and the pinnacle among them is the parking system plus with a reversing camera. It employs a fisheye lens to film the area behind the car. Images are first corrected by software and then displayed on the MMI monitor; guidance lines and fields help the driver to steer.

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.