Lighter, more efficient and full of high-tech – The new Audi Q7
The lightweight concept
When it comes to lightweight construction, the new Audi Q7 is a benchmark in the large SUV segment. The unladen (without driver) 3.0 TFSI version weighs only 1,970 kilograms (4,343.1 lb), while the 3.0 TDI registers 1,995 kilograms (4,398.2 lb). That’s up to 325 kilograms (716.5 lb) less than the predecessor model.
The body significantly contributes to this advancement: Its multi-material construction saves up to 71 kilograms (156.5 lb) in weight. The doors, which like the complete outer shell are made of aluminum, contribute an additional saving of 24 kilograms (52.9 lb). Engineers have also exploited large weight-saving potential in the chassis – 27 kilograms (59.5 lb) at the front and 40 kilograms (88.2 lb) at the rear suspension. The powertrain contributes a saving of 20 kilograms (44.1 lb) and the exhaust system 19 kilograms (41.9 lb).
Lightweight construction at Audi is a principle pervading all areas of development – in the new Q7 it’s exemplified by numerous weight savings. The seats add up to a saving of 19 kilograms (41.9 lb), the module crossmember under the instrument panel saves 3.5 kilograms (7.7 lb) and the loading floor 4 kilograms (8.8 lb). The wheel brakes contribute a saving of 8.5 kilograms (18.7 lb), the wiring 4.2 kilograms (9.3 lb), the engine cooling system 8.7 kilograms (19.2 lb) and the 3.0 TDI engine 2.5 kilograms (5.5 lb). The brake pedal is made of aluminum – weight saving: 1,010 grams (2.2 lb).
Thanks to its high fuel efficiency, based essentially on the low weight, the new Audi Q7 also presents a good environmental balance sheet. The computational consideration of its life cycle – from obtainment of raw materials through production to recycling after 200,000 km (124,274.2 mi) – yields a total CO2 equivalent of 16 percent below the value of the predecessor model. While the production values are not as good because of the energy expended for the primary aluminum, from about 34,000 kilometers (21,126.6 mi) the new Q7 beats a steel concept in the environmental balance sheet.