Audi, the renowned automobile manufacturer, has transformed the NSU Prinz 4 from the 1960s/early ’70s into an electrifying concept car. This one-of-a-kind vehicle was a project undertaken by apprentices at Audi’s plant in Neckarsulm, Germany, to commemorate 150 years of production at the site. The goal was to build a fast and visually appealing car that pays homage to the long history of the manufacturing site.
While Audi itself did not exist 150 years ago, the site was originally responsible for the production of NSU sewing machines, bicycles, and motorcycles. NSU later delved into car production, starting in 1905, and even introduced the world’s first rotary-powered car in the form of the 1964 Spider (also known as the Sport Prinz). Interestingly, this innovation preceded Mazda’s first rotary car, the Cosmo 110S, by three years.
The Audi EP4 concept, based on the NSU Prinz 4, is more than just a simple restoration or modification. The original Prinz 4, manufactured between 1961 and 1973, featured an air-cooled, rear-mounted, 2-cylinder engine. In the EP4 concept, this 30-horsepower engine has been replaced with a powerful 236-horsepower electric motor borrowed from an E-Tron SUV (currently known as the Q8 E-Tron). However, the EP4 concept does not house the massive battery seen in the E-Tron SUV. Instead, the apprentices opted for a smaller battery unit sourced from a plug-in hybrid Q7 variant available overseas. This battery unit is positioned in the area where the car’s fuel tank would traditionally exist.
Building the EP4 concept proved to be a challenging yet rewarding task for the apprentices. They began by stripping down the donor vehicle and treating any remaining rust. Subsequently, the apprentices modified the floorpan of an Audi A1, including the brakes and axles, to suit the Prinz 4. This modification was necessary due to the significant increase in horsepower compared to the original vehicle.
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To further enhance the EP4 concept, the apprentices employed innovative 3D printing technology to create numerous one-off parts for the car. This includes the interior, where custom instruments and displays were installed. The cutting-edge computer system provides vital information, such as the remaining charge and speed, on these bespoke displays. Moreover, it performs diagnostic tasks, ensuring the vehicle’s performance is constantly monitored.
Throughout the process of creating the EP4 concept, the apprentices gained invaluable experience in various areas of automotive engineering. From dismantling and refurbishing the original vehicle to adapting components and utilizing advanced 3D printing techniques, the apprentices had the opportunity to learn from hands-on projects. This practical experience will undoubtedly contribute to their development as skilled professionals in the automotive industry.
Audi’s EP4 concept seamlessly blends the classic design of the NSU Prinz 4 with modern electric powertrain technology. This fusion of the past and the present highlights Audi’s dedication to innovation and preservation of automotive history. By repurposing a beloved classic and integrating sustainable technology, Audi showcases its commitment to creating a more environmentally friendly future for the automotive industry.
In conclusion, the Audi EP4 concept, based on the NSU Prinz 4, is a mesmerizing creation that pays tribute to the rich history of automotive manufacturing at Audi’s plant in Neckarsulm, Germany. This one-of-a-kind concept car combines the classic design of the Prinz 4 with a powerful electric motor, showcasing Audi’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. The project not only serves as a celebration of the site’s 150-year milestone but also provides valuable training opportunities for aspiring automotive professionals. The EP4 concept represents the perfect blend of the past and the present, creating a vision for a more exciting and sustainable future in the automotive industry.
