Audi has revealed that its new A8 model, set for release later this year, will use a unique combination of structural materials designed to be very light, but also set new standards in terms of strength.

Audi says it is trying to use "the right material, in the right place and at the right time" in the construction. This means that as well as conventional steel, the new Audi Space Frame also utilises magnesium, aluminium and carbon-fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP).

The rear part of passenger cell for example is made of CFRP and provides around a third of the car's total torsional rigidity. This uses a fast and flexible process called "direct-fibre layering". 58% of the car is also made up of a firm Audi material favourite, aluminium. Heat treatment means this cast alloy is now stronger and thanks to a new cold-forming production method, allows the door openings to be slightly wider than before. Magnesium has been used to create a front strut brace  which adds to the weight savings.

The new A8 will debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in the autumn.