Audi proves next A8 can park itself

Audi has given a glimpse of its luxurious BMW 7 Series rival in a new video that shows off the A8's semi-autonomous parking aid ahead of its official reveal on July 11.

The short video sees the big Audi steer, accelerate, reverse, slow and brake safely into its parking spot is more the impressive since not only is there no input from the driver, but there’s not even anyone passengers on board to supervise the manoeuvre.

It's thought that as well as the ability to self-park the all-new A8 will come with 'Level 3' autonomous driving capability that allows it to also steer, brake, accelerate, change lanes, turn and use indicators without any input from the driver but does hand over to the driver whenever the situation requires it.

As well as its clever self-driving capability, the video also gives a glimpse of part of the A8's rear tail lamp and a long-distance shot of the all-new luxo limo's nose.

Recently, Audi also announced the A8 would come with a high-tech 48-volt electrical system that, thanks to an enlarged alternator/starter motor would offer near seamless start/stop and the ability to coast on the highway at up to speeds to 160km/h.

Claimed to boost power and efficiency the new electrics will be combined with a new lightweight construction that ditches the old car's full aluminium spaceframe for new architecture that combines aluminium, steel, magnesium and carbon-fibre reinforced plastics.

Expect yet more teases ahead of the A8 July unveiling.