Audi virtual cockpit replaces a traditional instrument panel
Audi is seeking to innovate the good old driver instrument panel by replacing conventional needles with modern screen technology. Called Audi virtual cockpit, this configurable interface first appeared in the 2016 Audi TT, and will make its way into various other of the brand’s products, such as the new-generation A4.
The digital cluster consists of a 12.3-inch screen on which the driver can choose between various views, including combinations of the speedometer, the tachometer, the trip computer, the audio settings and the navigation map. The latter can be stretched over the whole width of the screen, with only small speed and engine rev readouts on the lower corners. Or, the tachometer can be displayed front and center, flanked by other readouts such as the map on the left and fuel economy average on the right.
The big advantage of the Audi virtual cockpit is that all the information is concentrated in one place, located right in front of the driver. Looking at the map in the instrument panel is less distractive than having to refocus our eyes on a centre stack screen, where the navigation system map is usually located.
The display isn’t touch-sensitive, but doesn’t need to be. It’s controlled by the multifunction knob on the console, two rocker switches for navigation and audio settings as well as menu and back buttons. There’s also a volume knob on the console, in addition to one on the steering wheel. In addition, everything can be controlled by voice command.
The downside to the Audi virtual cockpit is that since everything is located in front of the driver, other passengers will have a more difficult time to adjust radio settings and help out with navigation.