A prototype car, which adds quattro all-wheel-drive to the premium subcompact hatchback that is the Audi A1, is currently being put through its paces in Montreal.
On the icy of roads of Montreal Audi is currently hosting an event called 'Fascination of Quattro'. The idea behind this event is to celebrate the past, present, and the future of the company's famous four-wheel-drive system, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2010.
One of the big stars of the show is a prototype version of the A1 premium subcompact hatchback, re-engineered to include the quattro system. The technology behind this prototype is similar to the tech used in both the TT and A3 cars. It works using an electronically controlled and hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch which is placed in front of the rear axle to optimize weight distribution. Inside this clutch is a package of plates which rotates within an oil bath. During regular driving conditions, most of the power is sent from this clutch to the front wheels, but if they begin to lose traction then it will instantly react by shifting torque to the rear axle by forcing the plate packages together.
Audi has already shown that it has a strong commitment to roll out the Quattro system across its range - including it in over 120 variants in the current range, from the R8 supercar right down to the A3 hatchback - but this new prototype proves that the firm intends to take this even further, by introducing it onto its smallest cars.
The current UK A1 range is made up of ten front-wheel-drive cars, which are powered by 1.2-litre TFSI (85bhp) and 1.4-litre TFSI (120bhp) petrol engines and a 1.6-litre TDI (104bhp) diesel, and is priced from £13,420 OTR to £18,665 OTR. If the Quattro model is a success, expect to see an augmented A1 range in the near future.
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