Solving Problems Before they Happens : Smart Auto Tech and Infotainment Systems

Whether its connected cars, integrated data in the dashboard or next-generation driver cockpits, here is what we can expect to see in smart auto tech in the near future

General Motors’ OnStar Driver Assurance System

Leveraging the concept of Internet of Things, General Motors has created a connected vehicle system. The OnStar Driver Assurance system can predict and notify drivers about engine health and also when other components might fail. The initial models focus on the battery, starter motor and fuel pump, all critical to starting and keeping a vehicle running. Other vehicle parts and components will be added in future models. To use the system the owners must enroll and opt for this service. The system works on the sensors integrated into the vehicle. Data streams from these sensors and are sent to OnStar ‘s secure cloud servers wherein algorithms are applied to assess various components to check whether they could impact vehicle performance.

When indicated, notifications are sent to the customer via email, text message, in-vehicle alerts or through the OnStar RemoteLink smartphone app. Knowing in advance the information of components and fixing them will ensure much safer driving experience. The service is

expected to be available on select Chevrolet Models later this year.

Audi Virtual Cockpit

Audi has dragged the car out of analog world and presented all info in a virtual cockpit. It is a 12.3-inch TFT display that represents all the information directly to the chauffeur in sharp and high quality. The system coupled with new MMI interface is based on QNX software and is powered by a quad-core Nvidia Tegra 3 processor, running a special 3D program which refreshes at 60 frames per-second. The MMI now also recognizes multi-touch gestures like scrolling and zooming in on lists and on maps. This means all animations should stay smooth and give feedback similar to that provided by analog dials. The TFT screen is situated behind the steering wheel and can be used in classic or infotainment modes. The classic mode focuses on circular dials i.e speedometer, odometer, rev counter, etc. On the other hand infotainment mode focuses on more advanced info like navigation, telephone, audio, warnings, media info etc.

The new MMI interface also has potential for individual customization wherein it allows only the information that a driver wants to see. It is also integrated with Voice Assistant like Siri wherein all functions can be commanded by voice. This Virtual Cockpit will serve many purposes both for manufacturer and consumers. For manufacturers, by integrating everything into one console, there is no need for separate display in center. Thus the design can be cleaner and simpler. And from a consumer perspective this means everything is right in front of the driver and with customization it displays only relevant information which means more smarter, comfortable and distraction free driving. Most cars fitted with this system will be out later this year