In this third issue of DVN-I, we present an in-depth look at the takeaway points we retain from this year’s Automotive Interior Expo recently held in Stuttgart. The displays and exhibits at the show really confirmed the increasing trend of lightweighting, and the growing importance of interior lighting. Light is no longer in the car just to help find things in the dark; now it’s central to creating ambiance, providing information, generating alerts, personalizing the cabin according to vehicle occupants’ personal choices…all in all, lighting is playing an increasingly important role in the comfort and safety of everyone inside the car.
As for lightweighting, it was clearly visible through lighter materials, as well as materials allowing miniaturization of components so as to reduce package space. This, in turn, is creating opportunity for automakers increase interior space and/or reduce the exterior dimensions of the car for a given cabin volume. With CO2 reduction getting more and more important, these types of opportunities are crucial to fielding vehicles responsive to today’s needs and wants.
We also bring you news and views on interior surfaces, materials, and designs, as well as the most interesting topics presented at the recent WardsAuto Interiors conference in Detroit. You’ll see previews of forthcoming cars including VW’s 8th Golf and the Nio ES6.
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In the meantime, happy reading; we thank you for your support!
