Diesel sports car from Audi 10 | 09 | 2013
AUDI HAS REVEALED its new Nanuk Quattro high-performance diesel sports car concept. Produced in collaboration with Italdesign Giugiaro, Audi says the concept is capable of 544bhp, 737lb ft and a 189mph top speed.
Powered by a newly-developed 5.0-litre V10 TDI engine mounted midships and longitudinally, it's fitted with Audi's famous quattro four-wheel-drive system, utilises a “beefed-up” 7-speed S tronic gearbox, and is capable of reaching 62mph in 3.8sec and reputed to average 36.2mpg.
Based around an aluminium space frame, the body panels are constructed from carbonfibre reinforced polymer (CFRP). The concept has a 710mm wheelbase and measures 4541mm long, 1990mm wide and 1337mm high.
Related: Audi reveals 690bhp hybrid quattro
According to Audi, the Nanuk "opens a new chapter in the Audi design language”. Most noticeable is the flatter version of Audi’s hexagonal grille and daytime running lights that double as indicators.
The concept also introduces Audi's next-generation of adaptive air suspension which allows the ride height to be adjusted by up to 70mm.
Sitting on 22in wheels with 235/50 and 295/45 tyres front and rear, and carbon ceramic brakes, the Nanuk is fitted with four-wheel steering which allows the rear wheels to turn in the opposite direction at low speeds to aid manoeuvrability. As the speed increases, the rear wheels turn in the same direction, improving stabililty.
In an effort to improve access for maintenance, the whole of the rear of the car’s bodywork is a single-piece clamshell. There's also stowage space in the front for luggage.
Related: Scots design boss Ian Callum unveils Jaguar C-X17
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Jim McGill