Chinese car manufacturer Yanfeng is introducing an interior concept for its battery-powered electric vehicles available in Europe that focuses on stress relief for the consumer.
With the cabin described as conveying a “feeling of freedom,” “so that the cockpit area provides plenty of space for the body and relaxation for the mind,” it’s clear that Yanfeng is trying to balance consumer fears about the vehicle’s range.
Patrik Nebout, the company’s technical director, says that the priority when designing the interior was to make it clearly distinguishable from the cabins of vehicles with combustion engines.
His design team eliminated the traditional dashboard and integrated all important functions into a smart cabin seat module. These include “intelligent surfaces” for operating and controlling the vehicle, an active headrest with audio functions, advanced safety systems, air conditioning integrated into the seat and practical storage and charging options.
The Smart Cabin Seat Module combines the two front seats with an integrated floor console, steer-by-wire input system, HMI, displays, seat belts and airbags, and comfort microclimate air conditioning. The steer-by-wire system features an integrated display that can be stowed for interactions during autonomous driving and can be moved to a steering position for driving functions depending on the desired driving mode. Since the HMI display interface is fully embedded in the extendable steer-by-wire arm, the large display panel at the front of the cabin does not require touch interaction.
The company also says the interior design makes it easier for other automakers to install it, as Yanfeng highlights its capabilities as a Tier 1 automotive supplier.
Nebout says: “Extensive studies by our Yanfeng research team have shown that users want more technology, but above all technology that is intuitive to use to create a fun and enjoyable experience. They also want significantly different space than in vehicles with combustion engines.
“In addition to the improved user experience, the EVI also offers advantages for automobile manufacturers. The integration of all important components in the Smart Cabin seat module simplifies and speeds up the assembly process while reducing costs.”
