Audi A1 quattro prototype 12 | 01 | 2011

AUDI HAS taken a massive leap towards confirming a quattro version of the A1. The German giant has released images of an A1 tetsing a development installation of its quattro drivetrain in freezing conditions in Canada.

Listed simply as a 'one-off development car' during its appearance at the ‘Fascination of quattro’ event taking place in Montreal to celebrate the past, present and future of the legendary four-wheel-drive system, which reached its 30th anniversary in 2010, the pic is the biggest hint that the car will make it to production.

Using technology very similar to that used in A3 and TT models, at the core of the A1 quattro is an electronically controlled, hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch located in front of the rear axle for an optimized distribution of weight. Inside is a package of plates that rotate in an oil bath.

During normal driving, the clutch sends most of the engine’s power to the front wheels. If the front axle loses grip, the clutch can instantly transfer torque to the rear axle by forcing the plate packages together. A pressure reservoir helps the electric pump to develop the necessary oil pressure.

Officially, Audi remains tight-lipped the prospect of a quattro A1 — or S1 — but as the pieces begin falling into place, we should soon see a complete S range at Audi.

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