Clever combinations

Lightweight construction is often mentioned in the same breath as aluminium. However, the widespread use of light alloys is only one possible way of saving weight. Audi is already using innovative combinations of materials in many areas.

The Audi Space Frame is one of the most important innovations in the field of lightweight construction: the aluminium body created by Audi is still viewed today as one of the milestones on the way to significantly lighter vehicles. However in addition to the aluminium design, Audi also develops multi-material concepts, some of which are lighter or stronger. As well as aluminium, Audi focuses on carbon fibre-reinforced polymers, state-of-the-art steel alloys and magnesium.

The main requirement put on our lightweight construction engineers is specialist know-how in the field of joining techniques. Thin aluminium panels can easily become damaged during welding. Some materials cannot be welded together at all – they have to be riveted, joined with adhesive or with self-cutting threaded screws.

Audi has deliberately been breaking new ground in this area for many years and has built up specialised technical knowledge that can be used in production. Thanks to this know-how, it is possible to combine together virtually all the materials relevant to the vehicle construction industry. This is a distinct advantage, as this is the only way that it is possible to use just the right material in every part of the car – with no compromises.