The first generation of the Audi A8 is the first car with an aluminium body built according to the Audi Space Frame principle. The ASF is a high-strength aluminium frame structure into which the panels are integrated so that they also perform a load-bearing function. The main advantage of this solution, especially on a heavier car is the low weight combined with better stiffness. Audi engineers say that the A8 would weight at least 15% more if it had a comparable steel frame.