The Audi A2 was first a concept car that was unveiled at the 1997 Frankfurt Motor Show. intended to be a design study of an aluminium-bodied car under the name of Al2 it was giving the automotive world a glimpse of the shape of things to come with both the A2 and the new A8 sporting an all aluminum body.

The A2 is designed using space age technology. Its aluminium spaceframe is like a protective cage that surrounds occupants to absorb high levels of energy during a crash. Whilst it is over 40% lighter than if it was built from conventional steel it is safer and recyclable.

‘Full-size’ airbags and side airbags for the driver and the front passenger. Side airbags are integrated into the side of the front seat backs. In the event of the airbags being deployed, the central locking unlocks all the doors, the interior lights are switched on and the hazard warning lamps activated. Additionally the engine is switched off and the fuel pump (petrol engine) is shut down.

The combination of revolutionary engine technology with a space frame made entirely from aluminium allows the A2 to be faster, quieter and more economical. The A2 is available with two 1.4 litre engines, petrol and diesel, both producing 75 PS. Audi now claims the diesel A2 is the first car in the world to be able to use only 2.99 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres. The designers of the A2 put much work into saving weight and improving the aerodynamics of the A2 to improve fuel economy. Small features like a smouther underbody, lighter seats and even increased space in the floor of the rear seat area to provide extra room for the rear seat passengers while making the body shorter all add up to less weight.

The A2 offers new levels of service friendliness. It is the first production car to be fitted with an instant ‘service module’. Instead of lifting the bonnet there is a compartment behind the radiator grill that allows easy access to the dipstick, oil filler and screen washer water, Audi claim the bonnet of the A2 only needs to be accessed during regular service which is every 2 years or 30000 klm.