Rocket Espresso and Audi Launch TT-Inspired Espresso Machine

Rocket Espresso and Audi have collaborated to produce a prosumer espresso machine, integrating Audi's distinctive design language with Rocket's established engineering platform. This co-developed unit is built upon Rocket's Bicocca portafilter platform and draws significant visual inspiration from the Audi TT sports car. The design process involved a partnership between the Audi Design Team and the Italian design studio Valerio Cometti + V12Design, with the Audi TT serving as the primary aesthetic reference point. This collaboration aims to merge the precision engineering of high-end espresso machines with the sophisticated styling characteristic of Audi vehicles.

Internally, the machine features dual stainless-steel boilers, a configuration that separates brewing and steam functions for optimal performance. The brewing boiler has a capacity of 0.5 liters, while the steam boiler is larger at 1.5 liters. Pressure is supplied by a robust rotary pump, a component typically found in professional-grade machines, offering greater consistency and longevity compared to the vibration pumps used in more basic models. Shot-to-shot consistency is further enhanced by PID temperature control applied to an electrically heated brewing group. The machine operates with a power draw of 1,600W and is available in both 220 to 240V and 115V configurations. It includes a 1.8-liter water tank and has a substantial weight of 35 kg, with dimensions measuring 409 by 465 by 400 mm.

The user interface incorporates a 3.5-inch touchscreen, seamlessly recessed into the upper section of the brewing unit. This display utilizes a textless Human-Machine Interface (HMI) that relies on intuitive symbols rather than written menus, echoing the functional design principles found in car interiors. Complementing the touchscreen are black glossy handles and rotary controls, providing tactile feedback for essential operations. This division of controls, with physical elements for actions performed by feel and a digital interface for information, mirrors the ergonomic design philosophy of modern automobiles. The aesthetic is further defined by the interplay of matte aluminum and deep black surfaces, with sculpted side panels that progressively rise towards the rear, imparting a dynamic and directional stance to the machine. A complementary Spluga grinder has also been developed specifically to pair with this espresso machine, completing the integrated design.

This collaboration marks a significant venture for both Rocket Espresso, a renowned manufacturer of high-end espresso machines, and Audi, a leading automotive brand known for its design and engineering prowess. The machine's construction emphasizes premium materials and meticulous attention to detail, aiming to appeal to discerning coffee enthusiasts who also appreciate sophisticated design. The integration of automotive design principles into a kitchen appliance highlights a growing trend of luxury and performance crossover in consumer products. The machine's specifications, including the dual boilers, rotary pump, and PID control, position it as a high-performance device capable of producing cafe-quality espresso at home, while its aesthetic appeal aims to make it a statement piece in any kitchen environment.