Yahoo Autos Audi Reveals e-tron Interior: Check Out the Side-View “Mirror” OLED Screens
It once seemed insane when companies like Acura started adding a second screen to their dashboards. Well, the next generation of vehicles laughs at such simplicity. As an example, Audi has unveiled the interior of its upcoming e-tron fully electric crossover SUV. In doing so, the automaker has provided the first look at the in-car side-view screens that will team with exterior cameras to replace traditional exterior mirrors. The setup is going to take some getting used to.
To make the transition to the new technology as seamless as possible, the cameras’ views are transmitted to 7.0-inch OLED screens mounted on the forward edge of each door panel, which since drivers are already in the habit of looking left or right. The view can be switched between settings for turning, parking, and highway driving, and the system also allows occupants to zoom in and out. As a reminder, this tech will only be available in markets outside the United States; U.S. regulations do not currently allow such whizbangery.
The rear-facing cameras are just the beginning of the technology found in the all-electric e-tron. The SUV comes standard with Audi’s Virtual Cockpit display, which replaces traditional gauges with a large, customizable screen. Two stacked landscape-oriented screens in the center stack facilitate control of the infotainment system. The e-tron also features an interesting take on the gear selector, with a floating L-shaped hand rest protruding from the passenger side of the center console. It has a thumb slider for selecting drive, reverse, or neutral. Park is selected with a separate button.
The rest of the interior is typical Audi. It features a wraparound aesthetic that extends from door to door. The dash is tiered with layers of real brushed aluminum, Valcona leather, and other soft-touch materials. The stitching on the leather seats (which can be ordered in contrasting colors) is intended to mimic the lines of an electrical circuit board. A 16-speaker 705-watt Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system and an optional ambient-lighting package add to the premium vibe.
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For now, Audi still classifies the e-tron and its interior as a prototype, but this is what will make it to production. More screens inside the car may increase the potential for driver distraction, but there’s no denying that this design looks pretty cool. Audi will roll out further details on its first EV in the months to come, so stay tuned, but the company has already revealed much about its powertrain and charging plans.
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