Inside the Audi E-tron Quattro Concept
From design flourishes to state-of-the-art infotainment features
We had our first introduction to the Audi E-tron Quattro concept car in September 2015, during Frankfurt’s IAA Auto Show. At that time, however, the doors remained closed, leaving the interior design a bit of a mystery. At CES 2016, however, we’ve had an opportunity to get hands-on with a mock-up of it all—and the result is as sleek and future-forward as its exterior. From curved OLED screens to brand new touch-technology and super-fast LTE-connected infotainment capabilities it’s not just the looks that impress. In fact, the car seeks to learn habits and actively assist across the board.
A standout feature is the 14.1 inch Audi virtual cockpit. From its central visual positioning behind the multifunctional steering wheel to the use of curved Active Matrix Organic LEDs (AMOLED) technology, there’s an effective, accessible anchoring to all key information within. The center stack features a large screen with another angled one just beneath it. The top screen allows for accessing navigation and media functions. The lower screen, however, allows users to input handwritten text functions (among many other things). Both screens utilize familiar touch gestures we are already using in consumer electronics—touch, swipe, pinch, etc. And the devices themselves provide tactile haptic feedback which helps keep your eyes off the screens and on the road.
As for information and entertainment, the concept employs the next development stage of Audi’s MIB2 (already in brand new models). This MIB2+ system (three times faster than the previous MIB2) merges on-board and online information—all while supporting full LTE-advanced connectivity. The car, then, has tremendous access to the cloud. And for further safety, there’s advanced voice-control options.
Seamless connectivity is the through-line to functionality. Supplemental information, while traveling, will offer suggestions—from redirecting a driver because of traffic to alerting of hazards. A 3D map will actually be able to occupy the screen in front of the driver. Further, Audi has plans to allow users to sign in with their personal myAudi account allowing for even more tweaks to functionality, updates and information.
While we don’t know specifics yet, we’re expecting to see the Audi E-tron Quattro concept translated to a production vehicle in the not too distant future. And that future looks bright.
Images courtesy of Audi
