Introduced as a world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show, the Audi A8 became the first production sedan to feature an aluminum platform (Audi Space Frame), relegating once and for all the concern for rust to the past. Fitted with a significant comfort and safety package, the objective of Audi engineers to reduce curb weight and therefore also to lower fuel consumption was reached only partially. At the time of its launch, the Audi A8 was offered with a choice of "Quattro" all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive.