Audi has received the European Inventor of the Year 2008 from the European Patent Office for the invention of Audi Space Frame Technology. The award shows that the automaker has significant contributions to Europe’s economical growth and competitiveness.

“The award is a testament to our lead in lightweight aluminum design technology, an area that is so important for the automobile industry,” says Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of Audi.

Audi’s Space Frame technology was first seen at the Frankfurt Motor Show when it made its debut in the Audi A8 in 1993. The frame structure offers high stiffness, above-average crash protection while the weight savings improve handling and lower fuel-consumption.

Today the Audi A8, the Audi TT Coupé, the TT Roadster, the Audi R8 and the Lamborghini Gallardo are all equipped with Audi Space Frame technology.

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