April 15, 2024
EV’s from No Frills to Moody Design
A new era has started for Dodge and its beloved muscle car, the Charger. The eighth generation is, of course, driver-centric, with a cockpit-like cabin that focuses on the steering wheel and the road ahead. Many of its elements are inspired by the iconic 1968 model, such as the linework and material textures on the IP.
A 10.25-inch instrument cluster screen comes as standard, with option to upgrade to a larger 16-inch configuration, while the HUD projects further driver information onto the windscreen. Another 12.3-inch entertainment screen is angled toward the driver, floating above the start button and the “pistol grip” gear shifter on the centre console. To provide a touch of atmosphere, Dodge has included a 64 colour LED lighting system that can be personalised for different drivers while also reacting to events such as the opening of doors and pressing the ignition button.
Derived from the Greek term ‘neo’ for new, and the Latin ‘luna’ for moon, the Genesis Neolun is the Genesis’ first electric SUV concept, and has been designed to embody the carmaker’s latest efforts in technological innovation. Steps are automatically deployed when the doors open to allow passengers to climb in and out of the vehicle. Without a B-pillar, the cabin appears extremely roomy, and there is space to move the large seats into various formations.
The dashboard consists of one main panel, on top of which stems a large, ultra-thin and retractable flat screen. A glossy centre console is complete with a rotary dial and a cluster of touch-sensitive controls. There is a distinct focus on materials and finish, with perforated leather cladding the seats and doors, a dark blue suede material running along the headliner and A-pillars, and a striped wooden veneer in the footwells.
The dashboard consists of one main panel, on top of which stems a large, ultra-thin and retractable flat screen. A glossy centre console is complete with a rotary dial and a cluster of touch-sensitive controls. There is a distinct focus on materials and finish, with perforated leather cladding the seats and doors, a dark blue suede material running along the headliner and A-pillars, and a striped wooden veneer in the footwells.
The Kia K4 has made its debut at the 2024 New York auto show. The model is based on the EV4 concept shown last year, retaining an unusual exterior design while opting for somewhat more measured feel inside. The cabin has been purposefully designed for width, emphasised by an expansive IP with horizontal lines and accented further by the dual screen unit that stretches to include both infotainment and instrument cluster in one.
Voice control and AI also feature heavily, and drivers can use the prompt ‘Hey, Kia’ to access the digital assistant, which can handle climate control and audio. The AI element means that drivers can also have more of a natural conversation with the car, in theory, and has been designed to listen for follow up questions. Proposed examples, according to the carmaker, include questions about stock prices, sports scores, and access to owners’ manual content.
Voice control and AI also feature heavily, and drivers can use the prompt ‘Hey, Kia’ to access the digital assistant, which can handle climate control and audio. The AI element means that drivers can also have more of a natural conversation with the car, in theory, and has been designed to listen for follow up questions. Proposed examples, according to the carmaker, include questions about stock prices, sports scores, and access to owners’ manual content.