German auto maker Audi recently launched its latest EV, the e-tron GT, the interior design of which it says is driven by the ‘monoposto’ concept that runs through all of the marque’s performance models.
The concept hinges on a layout whereby the upper section of the light-colored instrument panel forms an arc across the cabin. This panel incorporates the dash display, while the MMI (multimedia interface) monitor is surrounded by a contrasting black piano finish bezel.
Meanwhile, a contour bisects the upper and lower sections of the dashboard, the latter housing the control panel for the standard three-zone automatic air conditioning system with physical, rather than touchscreen, control buttons. The flat lateral air vents with their aluminum-faced edges emphasize the width of the interior, as does the long arc below the windshield, which sweeps around to meet the front door trims, creating what Audi terms a wraparound effect.
In terms of interior specification variations, the standard e-tron GT quattro features sports seats with eight-way adjustment upholstered in a combination of leather and synthetic leather, while the RS e-tron GT models feature seats with more adjustment options and ventilation and massage capability. The rear seats offer sufficient space for adults, with occupants positioned lower in the car than the driver, their feet located in what is known as a ‘foot garage’, a recess incorporated in the design of the battery pack running beneath the passenger compartment.
Following consumer trends, there will be an optional leather-free design package, which includes upholstery in a combination of artificial leather and a material called Cascade, produced using a proportion of recycled materials such as polyester fibers made from old plastic bottles, textiles, or residual fibers from selvages. Dinamica, a microfiber material which has similar properties to Alcantara and comprises recycled fibers, is also incorporated in elements such as the center console, the upper sections of the door inserts and the upper part of the instrument cluster. Regardless of the model chosen, the floor carpet and floor mats are made from Econyl, a material consisting of 100% recycled nylon fibers from production waste, fabric and carpet remnants, or old fishing nets.
In the layout of its controls and displays, the e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT follow the current Audi concept of all information appearing on two large displays. The driver operates the Audi virtual cockpit plus (12.3in) via the multifunction steering wheel and controls the central MMI touch display (10.1in) via touch. Powering the control and display functions in all models is Audi’s third-generation modular infotainment platform (MIB 3).
