schmidhuber + partner: audi ring for frankfurt motor show 2011

the 'audi ring' designed by schmidhuber + partner for the 2011 frankfurt motor show


a double-story twisting test drive track encircles vehicle showrooms and exhibits in the 'audi ring' building
created by munich-based architecture studio schmidhuer + partner for audi during the 2011 frankfurt motor show,
running september 15th through 25th.

situated on agora square, the 'audi ring' composes an entirely separate building at the fair site,
the first free-standing temporary building at the event. upon entry, visitors encounter the 'grand hall' showroom
of new audi vehicles, followed by interactive exhibits about the company's technology and design process.

a 400-meter test track extends across both levels of the interior, visible from the exterior via cutaways along the structure's
sides and top, and permitting the travel of up to nine vehicles at once. the course is open for visitors to experience by riding
as passengers alongside professional drivers in a range of current and future audi vehicles.

audi elaborates on the design concept:
'the test track pervades the building like a pulsating artery, forming the core of the architectural ensemble
around which the whole building is shaped; all entrances, openings, and façade contours are geared towards
this dynamic vehicle presentation. movement, not only of the vehicles, can be felt in every corner of the building.
[...] the sophisticated choreography of the test track defines the overall spatial and brand experience,
[forming] the emotional climax and end of the tour.'

'audi ring' will remain in place following the end of the frankfurt motor show until october 20th.



full view



profile perspective view



perspective scale view



detail aerial view of the 400-meter test track


project info:


project: temporary exhibition structure
location: frankfurt, germany
client: audi
concept and architecture: schmidhuber + partner
communication and media displays: KMS team
dimensions:  length 100 m / width 70 m / height 12 m
total area: approx. 8500 sq.m.
exhibition area: approx. 4500 sq.m.