Audi TT ultra quattro concept: design gallery

The TT ultra quattro concept combine a total weight of 1,111 kilograms (2,449.34 lb) with a 2.0 TFSI engine delivering 228 kW (310 hp) and 400 Nm, resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of 3.6 kg/hp.

The unit is coupled with the quattro permanent all-wheel and a six speed transmission, which allow the TT ultra quattro to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and to reach a top speed of 280 km/h.

The TT ultra quattro makes extensive use of lightweight materials, including carbon-fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) – for the rear end, the center tunnel, the B- pillars and the roof – and magnesium fort the floor and as hinge reinforcement.

The optimized mix of materials results into a lighter body structure (-43 kg) and total weight savings of 100 kg for the whole vehicle.

According to Audi, the technologies showcased by this concept could be introduced on future limited series production models.

Design

Compared with the series-production model, the Audi TT ultra quattro concept features exposed carbon fiber panels – which visually contrast with the special crystal white color – and a number of sporty accents.

Among these is the carbon fiber rear wing, supported by a base manufactured from milled aluminum.

Another highlight is provided by the compact cameras that replace the conventional exterior mirrors.

Like the exterior, the interior features large carbon fiber surfaces, including the door panels, the center console and the cross- bracing that replaces the rear seat bench.

The cabin features the same bucket seats that equip the R8 GT; their chassis alone, made out of fiberglass- reinforced plastic (FRP), reduce weight by 22 kilograms (48.50 lb).

Technical Features

The Audi ultra lightweight construction concept is applied to all elements in the automobile, and every component has been optimized.

The front brakes feature ceramic discs with an aluminum fixed caliper, the exhaust system made out of titanium ends in a single central tailpipe.

The wheels also reduce weight by 20 kilograms (44.09 lb). Spokes made out of high-strength aluminum are bolted directly to the CFRP wheel.

In the suspension, the unsprung masses have been reduced, thus improving comfort and handling.

The coil springs are not made out of steel but from fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP). The core of the all-new springs consists of long glass fibers twisted together and impregnated with epoxy resin. A machine wraps additional fibers around this core, which is only a few millimeters in diameter, at alternating angles of plus and minus 45 degrees to the longitudinal axis. These layers support each other and act in either compression or tension. The use of FRP at this point cuts weight by 40 percent while maintaining good characteristics – 6 kilograms (13.23 lb) in relation to the car as a whole.

To further hone the handling of the TT, the developers have taken away weight from the ends of the car and moved it into the middle.

The lithium-ion starter battery, for instance, is located in the interior under the driver’s seat. It is much smaller than a lead battery and weighs as little as just under four kilograms (8.82 lb).

Overall, all these lightweight construction measures make the concept car about 300 kilograms (661.39 lb) lighter than the comparable sporty series-production model.

The engine features modifications to the crankcase, the crankshaft, the balancer shafts, the flywheel, the oil sump, the bolts and certain ancillary units that make the engine 25 kilograms (55.12 lb) lighter have all helped get the engine into tip- top shape.

(Source: Audi)