Audi has created a more advanced self-driving RS 7 prototype, known as “Robby,” to highlight the company’s progress in autonomous technology.
The new build serves as a progeny of “Bobby,” the RS 7 that set a record of 149 mph as it rocketed around Germany’s Hockenheim race course without a driver behind the wheel. Focusing on the performance feat, Audi did not mention how much weight Bobby gained when adding the necessary sensor and computer suites.
Engineers have since focused on making the package a bit leaner. Robby is a full 882 pounds lighter than its predecessor, bringing the autonomous prototype much closer to the production RS 7′s curb weight. Engine output remains unchanged at 560 horsepower, giving the second-generation car a better power-to-weight ratio.
“In Sonoma we brought the Audi RS 7 piloted Driving Concept lap after lap to the physical limit, and in constant precision,” said Audi’s driver-assistance development head, Thomas Müller. “The car reached lap times that were better than those of some experienced sport riders.”
Buyers will get the first taste of Audi’s autonomous technology when the next-generation A8 arrives on the market. The sedan will not be fully self-driving, but its Traffic Jam Pilot System will take care of steering, throttle and braking at speeds of up to 37 mph. An array of radar and sonar sensors, lasers and video cameras will help keep the system on track.
The redesigned A8 is expected to be introduced next year before landing in showrooms by 2017.
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