Autonomous cars are set to be the hot topic of 2015, and Audi is beginning the trend with the Prologue. The Audi prologue piloted driving car not only stands for a new design era, but also integrates many innovations in the areas of connectivity, infotainment and user interface by Audi. In this connection, this show car’s laser matrix headlights and perimeter sensors will demonstrate how the car of the future will become ever more of an assistant to its occupants.
A novel laser scanner, several video cameras, ultrasound sensors mounted out of sight and front and rear sensors, themselves invisible, all cooperate in data capture. The central controller known as zFAS (zentrales Fahrerassistenzsteuergerat, central driver assistance controller) is the keystone of piloted driving. This compact master unit calculates a comprehensive impression of the car’s perimeter based on the signals provided by the scanners, the camera and the sensors.
The technology of the Audi Prologue is as sophisticated as its interior is thrilling. Its hybrid powertrain with a combined output of 677bhp and 950Nm of torque, delivers breathtaking performance. It takes this two-door coupé from 0 to 100 kmph in just 3.5 seconds. The 4.0 TFSI is meshed with a disc-shaped e-motor integrated into the eight-speed-e-tiptronic gearbox. The automatic transmission transfers both kinds of torque to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. The electrical energy of the hybrid drive comes from a rear-mounted lithium-ion battery.