State-of-the-art lighting technology
Externally, the taut lines of the A1 Sportback concept's futuristic body are emphasized by flared arches that pay homage to the Ur quattros of the 1980s, and to today's RS 6. At the front, the design of the three-dimensional main headlights using innovative LED technology is especially eye-catching. All light functions - low-beam and high-beam headlights, daytime running lights and turn indicators - have been located in one flat housing, in concentrically arranged, parallel and squared-off strips. The layout, with light segments of varying sizes - the low beam taking up most space - completely changes the 'face' of the A1 Sportback concept.
The rear lights, too, continue this theme and combine the function of tail and brake lights, turn indicators, reversing and rear fog lights into an unmistakable design. The interplay of acute and obtuse angles and the clear and coloured glass areas create a particularly dynamic look. A large-dimensioned, transparent cover over the entire width of the vehicle additionally combines both light units and emphasizes the horizontal design of the rear.
Audi mobile device - the second generation
Whereas the Audi A1 project quattro study featured its own mobile control unit for infotainment and vehicle systems, the A1 Sportback concept takes one step further into the future: the driver can use a commercially available mobile phone (equipped accordingly) as a car phone, address database, navigation system and audio/video player. At the same time it can be used as a control unit for numerous vehicle systems in the Audi A1 Sportback concept. Several phones that are suitable for these functions are already available from various manufacturers.
All that is required is some additional software, which Audi will provide on the internet for the driver to download and install. He or she can then enter a route plan or adjust the sound system to suit individual preferences, all from the comfort of home, for example. The mobile phone and vehicle communicate via a fast WLAN connection, even over considerable distances.
The system also offers the user a security function: within the range of the WLAN it can constantly monitor the current status of the vehicle, for instance whether all windows and doors are closed. The additional software offers numerous comfort and convenience features such as continued destination guidance on the mobile device after the vehicle has been left in a car park. A maximum parking time can be set via the device, and the navigation software will then lead the user back to the Audi A1 Sportback concept - taking the current distance from the vehicle into account - in good time to meet the parking deadline.
During the journey the mobile device demonstrates its strength as a portable media player. If the user listens to a song in a certain driving situation - on the motorway, for example - it is entered in an appropriate playlist. The software registers when and where the user prefers to listen to particular songs. The music is then available at the right moment.
Next generation MMI
The MMI control unit in the A1 Sportback concept study is a further development of the familiar design. In terms of feel it is easier to operate, particularly while driving. Grouped around the central rotary pushbutton are four fixed-function hardkeys for the Navigation, Telephone, Car and Media basic menus. Four additional, backlit softkeys have variable functions,which change within the individual menus.
All system information appears in the central display in the instrument cluster. This is designed in its entirety as a digital, freely configurable display with no mechanical elements. Superimposed glass elements make the graphics stand out with a three-dimensional look, producing a level of depth which could never be attained using a standard display.