The Audi Ai:Trail, Audi's Idea Of Future Off-roading

 The Audi AI: TRAIL was first shown to the public back in 2019 at the IAA Show alongside the AI: ME and AI: RACE as a part of Audi’s Aicon program.

The release was made to showcase what Audi’s idea of the future off-road vehicle will be (at least from Audi’s perspective). Audi is attempting to offer with the Trail specifically, what they think is best for future off roaders in search for that harmony with nature. 

It all starts in the interior. Audi is showing the AI: TRAIL with no big screens or infotainment because they want to make as much space for the big overflowing glass windows. So, what do you get on the inside? Well, Audi says the AI: TRAIL will have; Four point harnesses to hold you in place, a yoke for a steering wheel (what the fuck is that), “a few buttons," and a smart phone attached to the centre console for both navigation and vehicle functions.

Audi is also saying that the rear seats will be shaped like “hammocks,” so you will have a certain level of comfort, and they're removable. 

Moving along, to the exterior. The AI: TRAIL is going to be somewhat of a large vehicle. With the dimensions being, 13.5ft long, 7.05ft wide, and the roof height of 5.5ft tall, it is indeed quite large. Along with the girthy size, it also offers a generous amount of ground clearance (13.4in) thanks to its 33.5-inch tall tires. Really though, it’s only a matter of time until someone has a 6-inch lift kit and is sticking 45’s on it.

Though for its size the AI: TRAIL will be made from these specific components to be able to keep it lightweight; High-tech steel, aluminum, and carbon fibre is what makes up the exterior of the Trail, and because of that Audi is capable of making the Trail only weigh 3,858lb’s not bad for a big hefty off-roader. 

Now, what make the Audi AI: TRAIL go? Obviously, Audi is talking about future this, and future that, so there is only one option when it comes to powertrain, and you guested it, jet engines! Just kidding, it going to be battery powered. 

Audi’s vision is to build a vehicle where charging stations are scares, but they want you to feel comfortable when off-road (just sit in your hammock’s no?). Audi is aiming to use lithium-ion batteries that will allow for up to 500 kilometers on one charge. Unfortunately, because of the limited battery size, and the enormous tires, the AI: TRAIL will be limited to a top speed of 130km/h to help with battery consumption. 

Along with the batteries, the AI: TRAIL will have four individual motors powering each of the wheels individually (that also helps with the ground clearance). The total power output for the AI: TRAIL will be 320 kilowatts and maximum torque of 737 lb-ft. Not the most for an electric vehicle, but for an off-road one it’s definitely sufficient. 

Overall, the Audi AI: TRAIL is certainly going to be something to look out for. Unfortunately, I don’t think it is going to be the best day to day truck, but if you really only need something for going off-road and you want to be as at one with nature as possible it’s definitely going to be something for you.