What is the function of the four rings on the Audi logo?

I've always been curious about the four rings on the Audi logo. Does each ring represent a different aspect of the company or do they have a different meaning altogether?

The four rings on the Audi logo are actually a representation of the four companies that merged to form the brand in 1932: Audi, DKW, Horch, and Wanderer. Each ring represents one of the companies, and they were merged together to create the symbol we know today.

There is a common misconception that each ring represents one of the four elements (air, water, earth, fire) or the different stages of the production process. However, this is not true. The four rings represent the commitment of Audi to provide top-notch engineering, quality, styling, and service.