Audi Plans connect Strategy

With the modern automobile getting more and more addicted to computers, the world of tomorrow already shapes itself as a very different one. But, whereas up until now in-car computers (read everything that makes a modern vehicle work, from engine management systems to driver assistance) work separate from one another, not the same can be said about the ones in the not-so-distant future. In the future, in-car computers will be connected.

Most car maker have already created the guidelines that will govern this world of the future, but for now only one has announced it has a strategy when it comes to vehicle networking: Audi. Their strategy, Audi connect, will comprise all of the applications and developments that link current and future models with the Internet with their owners and with the infrastructure.

“We’re following a clear strategy with all Audi connect functions, to keep operation simple, minimize driver distraction and keep the level of safety high. The online services are integrated into the sophisticated Audi display format,” said Ricky Hudi, head of Electric and Electronic Development at Audi.

“The functions intentionally do not offer the entire spectrum of the Internet, but instead present a selection that offers maximum usefulness.”

For now, the details of the strategy are made up on the go. Already present in most Audi vehicles, like the A8,
A7 Sportback and the new A6 in the form of Internet connectivity, the features will expand this year with the introduction of the online traffic information and expanded voice command controls to find destinations via Google. Google Street View will also become available shortly in Audi vehicles.

More details on how Audi sees the future of its vehicles will became available throughout the year.