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Audi hits new high with 'Pikes Peak' concept
2003-01-09 - By Philip Byrne
Audi is set to take on/off road transport to a new height with their Pikes Peak concept vehicle unveiled at the recent Detroit Motor Show.
 Taking its name from the notorious Rocky Mountains summit that is the venue each June for a gruelling international hill climb in which Audi themselves achieved notable success back in the mid-80s, the new Pikes Peak concept is described as a 'crossover' vehicle that spans several segments from sports utility to luxury sedan.
Designed as a 'go-anywhere' vehicle, the four-door, 4-wheel drive Pikes Peak quattro carries six people seated across three rows in a 4+2 layout with folding rear seats that extend the load area to 68 cu. ft (1,950 litres).
Power is provided by a 500 bhp, twin turbo V8 engine with FSI direct injection developed in Audišs recent Le Mans-winning race models. With a governed top speed of 155 mph, it delivers a 0 - 60 mph performance of 4.7 seconds and 630Nm of torque from 2,000 rpm upwards split 50/50 between front and rear axles.
Drive train elements include EDL electronic differential lock and ESP electronic stabilisation programme. Variable height-adaptive air suspension provides ground clearance up to 11˛ in off-road conditions with automatic adjustment that alters height according to road speed.
High-tech goodies include an electronic lane-departure warning system that monitors road markings and warns the driver of any unintentional lane change. In tight terrain, a camera built into the outside mirror relays pictures from the offside front wheel to an internal screen. Flush mounted 'intelligent' door handles open outwards as the authorised keyholder approaches the car. Interior cameras monitor seating positions as part of the airbag control mechanism.
Design is influenced by a bold facia and radiator grille, clear glass Xenon Plus headlamps and massive wheels fitted with 'run-flat' tyres. Behind, an electronic wrap-around tailgate extends into the side panels. Hand baggage can be placed in the load area through the rear window which opens separately. Twin exhaust pipes are integrated into the rear bumper.
Other comfort items include a multifunction steering wheel with in-built tiptronic transmission controls, instruments illuminated by 3D laser optics, outside mirrors that light the area close to the vehicle, panoramic glass roof, interior cold store compartment, centre console that includes Audi's MMI multi media interface screen and an infotainment system with roof mounted screens visible to rear passengers with DVD, MD, MMI, Internet,USB and sound facilities .
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