Stay Clean Wheel Option Latest in Alcoa and Audi Innovation in Aluminum

Audi AG has selected Alcoa to supply forged aluminum wheels with Dura-Bright® technology surface treatment for the new 2009 Audi A6 recently debuting at the Paris International Motor Show.

Dura-Bright® technology enhances the image of the vehicle and the ownership experience by making the wheels easy to clean while protecting against corrosion. Dura-Bright® technology is the latest innovation in aluminum from Alcoa, who first helped Audi pioneer the lightweight aluminum space frame on the original A8.

“It was clear that Audi required a new wheel solution that is durable while retaining a high quality, innovative finish,” explains Mike Parnell, Vice President and General Manager – Alcoa Auto Wheels. “By staying cleaner longer, Dura-Bright® technology wheels enhance a vehicle’s appearance allowing Audi A6 owners to enjoy their vehicle while lowering maintenance efforts.”

Traditional alloy wheels rely on lacquer as a finish and protection against the elements. During heat cycling, brake dust and grime can penetrate the lacquer to create a yellow discoloration or black specks that cannot be removed. Dura-Bright® technology penetrates the surface of the wheel to become an integral part of the aluminum itself. It resists peeling, cracking and corrosion while offering a premium finish in keeping with Audi’s vehicle design philosophy.

Alcoa’s proprietary Dura-Bright® technology surface treatment has been offered in the commercial vehicle marketing since 2003, and more recently in the automotive OEM market. Launched into the automotive marketplace in 2007, Dura-Bright® technology by Alcoa is now available on several leading Global automotive platforms. Fitment on the Audi A6 signals the first application of Dura-Bright® technology for a European luxury sedan.

In addition, all Dura-Bright® technology wheels are produced by Alcoa’s forged engineering expertise. Alcoa forged aluminum wheels provide increased strength and durability gains and are typically twice as strong as a comparable cast aluminum wheel in crush tests. Further, a forged wheel reduces un-sprung weight on a car, maximizing vehicle performance, including more responsive steering and braking performance, while reducing weight compared to a similar cast aluminum wheel by over 20 percent.