From June this year, compact Audi models will bring a breath of fresher air to occupants, thanks to a new air conditioning filter. 

The new filter, which removes fine particulates and harmful gases from the air, and also neutralises virtually all allergens, will be used in the Audi A1, A3, Q3 (Audi Q2 from market launch) and the TT model series. Current Audi owners can also have their cars retrofitted with the new filter as part of their regular service.

Two versions of the filter will be used, each of which comprises three layers. What makes them special, according to Audi, is the new outer carrier layer which now features an additional anti-allergen effect. One variant reduces allergens by means of plant-derived, bioactive substances called polyphenols, which attach themselves to the receptors of the allergens. The other uses a modification of the protein structure to achieve the desired effect.

Audi says Independent tests by institutions such as SGS Fresenius, which investigated the allergenic properties, and Fiatec GmbH, which tested the filter properties, confirm the high effectiveness of the new Audi filters.

The two remaining layers also make a ‘significant contribution’ to the high air quality in the interior. The filtration layer made up of special microfibres removes even the tiniest of particulates from the air while gaseous impurities are trapped in the activated carbon layer.

Just in time for summer!