New details have emerged on Audi’s next-generation A8 flagship sedan. In an effort to keep up with Mercedes-Benz’s latest S-Class, the new A8 will be loaded with latest high-tech gadgets to go along with its futuristic styling.
One of the biggest new features for the next A8, due out in 2017, will be Audi’s latest Piloted Driving safety suite. Thanks to the use of long-range radar sensors, 12 ultrasonic sensors, laser scanners and video cameras, the next-gen A8 will be able to drive itself in urban areas at speeds up to 37mph.
And the interior of the A8 will be just as high-tech as the outside features. The next A8 will make use of organic LEDs and gesture controls for things like switching radio stations or answering phone calls.
“The A8 will be the next-generation of the every successful vehicle model for Audi, so what we are doing is looking at which future technologies make sense for our customers, what do they expect and how can we surprise out customers,” Audi’s technical development chief Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg told Auto Express. “The next level of sophisticated technology will be in the A8.”
On the styling front, the new A8 will take its inspiration from Audi’s Prologue concept. Under that sleek body work will reside new engines with electric turbocharging technology. A plug-in hybrid is also planned for the A8.
An exact timetable for the next-generation Audi A8 has not been announce, but the new sedan should debut sometime next year.
Photos by Brian Williams.
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